Tom Freeman, a residential coordinator for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Intensive Treatment Team (ITT), has worked for NECC for two years. He was nominated by a colleague because he “always puts the boys’ and the team’s best interests first. Tom is so committed to the work that we do and has great relationships with all of our students and staff. He is committed to each student’s progress and models kindness and compassion with all of his interactions with students and staff. We are so lucky to have Tom as a leader and a part of ITT 2!”
How long have you worked for NECC?
I have been at NECC for two years now. I started as a level 2 teacher in July of 2021, became a core shift manager in September of 2022, and then a residential coordinator in July of 2023.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job is watching how much the students have been able to learn and grow over the course of working with them!
Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?
I first started working with students with a variety of disabilities while in college and really fell in love with the work. All of the students that I’ve been able to work with over the years have been so fun and unique that I really couldn’t see myself doing anything else!
Why NECC?
NECC is a great place to learn about the field of special education and applied behavior analysis. Everyone here is so passionate about what they do and is willing to pass along what they’ve learned to anyone new to the field.
Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs at NECC? If so, how has it affected your teaching style?
I’m currently finishing up my second year of the Western New England University ABA program. This program has done a great job at showing me the latest research for teaching individuals with autism and how to utilize that information in my everyday teaching.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
During the summer I enjoy kayaking with my dog!
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to everyone, both in this field and others, who have dedicated their lives to helping others.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” -Martin Luther King, Jr.