Lisa Reebel has worked at The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Michael F. Downey Center for Child Development for eight years. She was nominated by colleagues because “she is a wonderful and dedicated toddler teacher. She’s creative, hard-working, and a great team player. She somehow manages to make balancing her classroom, her family, and her fitness class look easy, which we know is not! We appreciate all that Lisa brings to our department!” She was also recognized for her work leading the free staff exercise class at NECC: “She is a great fitness instructor! She is so enthusiastic and helping staff get healthy.”
What is your favorite part of your job?
Watching the kids grow little by little every day. The way they get so excited when they finally achieve something they have been striving to do, and knowing I helped them get stronger to achieve that goal, is why I love my job.
Why did you choose a career in working with children?
I’ve always loved working with children. They are just innocent little people, and I love seeing how they view the world. There is so much negativity in the world, but a simple smile from these little nuggets can make you forget all of that and remember what truly matters.
Why NECC?
I knew a few people who had worked at NECC. They shared that there was an opening in the Downey Center for Child Development, and the rest is history.
What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?
Not only am I a day care teacher, but I am also a certified personal trainer and health coach. I teach two classes a week here at NECC, Monday and Tuesday at 4:45 p.m., that are free to staff. I love to teach children, but I also love to teach anybody who’s willing to better their lives. Fitness is a huge part of my life and mental health, and I love teaching and sharing my passion with others.
Who is someone you look up to?
I look up to my parents for always giving my sisters and me everything we needed growing up, even when they had nothing. They never let us down, never let us see the struggle. We came first, and that is truly admirable.
What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?
Que Sera Sera, which translates to “Whatever will be will be.”