Anthony is an exemplary classroom leader who has been working at the May Center School for about nine years. Since day one, he has always gone above and beyond to make sure staff and students feel supported in their learning. For example, when there is a call for assistance, he is always the first to appear. Furthermore, he has taken on the role of Safety Care Trainer to ensure staff and students feel supported during times of escalation. He assists in running regular annual training sessions as well as intermittent refreshers.
Additionally, Anthony has found a way to communicate respect to staff and students in even the most difficult of times. He does not shy away from difficult conversations, if it means that students will be supported. He goes out of his way to make sure students are fully informed and active participants in the development and implementation of their behavior support plans. He makes time to meet with each staff member individually on a regular basis to review any questions and concerns they may have regarding interventions in the classroom.
Throughout the pandemic, Anthony has helped facilitate communication for continuity of services. This included regular check-ins with families and ensuring students maintained rigorous engagement in instruction through remote learning in both asynchronous and synchronous activities and group and individualized instructional opportunities.
Finally, he has helped prepare students and make sure they felt comfortable in transitioning to less restrictive environments. Two students have recently transitioned from his classroom to new schools with great success due to his efforts in selecting and implementing assessment-driven, research-based practices within the classroom and including establishing connections with the new team.
Nominated by Kalli Bonin, May Center School for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, West Springfield, Mass.
Quote from his community:
“Anthony has the ability to build a strong rapport with all the individuals served at our school, including students within his classroom, as well as students in other classrooms. He is patient, fun, and supportive. The students in his classroom look to him for comfort and understanding.” – Amanda Frye, M.S., BCBA, LABA, Clinical Director
“Anthony maintains a calm demeanor in all situations. He carefully wordsmiths to ensure that while de-escalating students, their emotional, social, and behavioral needs are met.” – Kalli Bonin, M.Ed., Director of Education
“Anthony is a hardworking and dedicated member of our team. He does everything he can to ensure the success of our students, as well as the classroom staff he supervises.” – Amanda Frye, M.S., BCBA, LABA, Clinical Director
See all of the pictures from the event on our Flickr album!
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