Jessica Meade, a Level 2 Teacher on Salem End Road, has worked at The New England Center for Children (NECC) for three years. She was nominated for Staff Spotlight by a colleague, “because she is an outstanding leader, teacher, and advocate for both students and staff. She is the true definition of a dedicated and exceptional employee.”

How long have you worked for NECC? I have worked at NECC for 3 years. I started as a level 2 teacher on the Intensive Treatment Team (ITT) Apartment 2, and I am currently a core shift manager on Salem End Road.

What is your favorite part of your job? My favorite part of my job is building relationships with all my students. Spending every day with them and being there for so many of their big milestones has truly impacted my life, and I’ll never take it for granted.

Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism? Growing up with a close family member with Down syndrome, I always had a passion for helping and caring for others who may need a little extra support. After high school, I started a job as an ABA therapist and have been in the field since.

Why NECC? I found NECC at a job fair hosted by my college and thought it would be a great place to further my education while making a difference in others’ lives.

Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs or teacher training at NECC? If so, how has it affected your teaching style? I am currently in my third year of the Western New England University (WNEU) Master’s Program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). I have learned so much from the faculty within the program and the incredibly talented clinicians here at NECC, who have all had a huge impact on not just my ability to teach, but also my outlook on the field.

Who is someone you look up to? I look up to all the wonderful coworkers I have met from all over the world. They are some of the hardest-working people I know, and they inspire me every day with their positive outlook on life and their love and care for not just the students they support, but also their coworkers.

What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by? Everything always happens for a reason, even if it might not feel like it in the moment.