Kayla Cyr, MSEd, an education coordinator for The New England Center for Children’s (NECC) Westboro 2 residential team, was nominated for Staff Spotlight by a colleague “for her commitment to serving the young women on West 2” and for the consideration she puts in when thinking about “their transition and future after NECC.”

How long have you worked for NECC?

I’ve worked at NECC for 12 years. Before joining the Westboro 2/Oak Street dyad as an education coordinator, I worked in the Saddle Hill/Francine/Higley/School Street department as a case manager, core shift manager (CSM), and MCAS role.

What is your favorite part of your job? 

My favorite part is celebrating the big and small wins for every individual student that I’ve had the privilege to work with at NECC! Watching the girls on Westboro 2 reach their fullest potential both academically and behaviorally is such a special part of my job. My goal as an educator is to have every student leave NECC with better communication skills, self-advocacy skills, independent living skills, and an understanding of their vocational preferences. I’m continuously learning with my students, which has shaped me into the teacher I am today.

Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism? 

My goal was to become a speech pathologist; I studied communication sciences and disorders in undergrad with a passion to help individuals communicate. NECC was my first job out of college, and it really opened my eyes to the special education world, specifically working with students with autism. I loved the thought of working collaboratively with specialty service members (SLP, OT, PT, APE, and Vocational). The NECC community is unmatched, and I knew quickly that I wanted my career to be here at NECC. I work with the most amazing colleagues, and I’m continuously learning and growing professionally every day.  

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 took advantage of the Simmons University master’s degree program offered through NECC. I graduated in 2019 with my master’s in severe special education with a specialization in autism. If anyone is on the fence about starting a career in special education, do [the master’s program]! It’s so convenient and you feel so supported every step of the way! Simmons gave me the tools needed to become an education coordinator and has shaped me into the educator I am today. The resources at NECC are amazing, and I don’t think I would receive the level of support I do here anywhere else.

What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?

Dance was my passion growing up, and I danced professionally in New York City at the Joffrey School of Ballet for one summer.

Who is someone you look up to? 

I look up to Kara Flanagan. She always puts others first, she cares deeply for her staff and students, and she goes above and beyond every single day.

What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by? 

Embrace the journey while you grow into your success.