Michelle “Mitch” Emar, a Rehabilitation Counselor on Oak Street, has worked at NECC for three years. She was nominated for Staff Spotlight by a colleague, “because Mitch is a great teacher; she truly cares about both the staff and the students. She is always on the move, doing her job and going the extra mile every day. She is excellent at training staff whenever someone new arrives or when we have overtime staff. Mitch is kind and makes shifts feel lighter because she is such a great team member. We are very lucky to have her at Oak!” 

How long have you worked for NECC?

I have been at NECC for three years.   

What is your favorite part of your job?

The absolute best parts of my job when working with my students are witnessing those hard-won, transformative milestones and seeing a breakthrough in social skills, completing a difficult task and mastering a routine, or making it through a sensory transition, because celebrating these victories with my students is profoundly rewarding and creates immense joy for me. 

Another special part of my job is building unique connections with students and coworkers. I have developed deep bonds built on trust. I get to know the students’ authentic personalities, unique humor, and passions. I love “laughing-out-loud” with them!  

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

Ever since I started my teaching career, it has been my passion to create an impact and make a difference in each of my students’ lives. My passion for working with children with autism is driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference and to experience the uniquely exceptional reward of watching my students progress and reach milestones that will change their lives forever.  

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’m not currently in any program, but I am looking forward to exploring such opportunities on a more appropriate timeline. There were many teacher training sessions that NECC provided, which helped me become who I am as a teacher, staff member, and colleague on my residential team. I will always be grateful to NECC for supporting me in growing professionally and interpersonally. 

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

Something about me that might surprise my coworkers is that I love being in nature! I love nature and the tranquility it brings. I love hiking, trail walking, and just being outdoors. I also enjoy doing arts and crafts in my free time.  

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

“I believe that when you put Faith, Hope, and Love together, you can raise positive kids in a negative world. Because many things are possible for the person who has hope and faith and knows how to love. But everything is possible for the person who practices all three.”