LATHAM PROFILES: Meghan Pouliot
Latham Profiles: Meghan Pouliot
Teacher at Latham Centers
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The best part of my job is when I see the students working together. It makes my day when I see one of my students help another student during a difficult time. All they may offer them are coping skills or just an open ear, and you will see the other student instantly feel better. It’s the best.
Describe a few of your responsibilities and how you spend much of your time.
Some of my responsibilities include creating interactive lessons, managing the classroom, and implementing each students IEP. Most of my time is spent in the classroom working with my students.
What skills are most important for professionals who work with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?
It is a toss-up between a good sense of humor and patience. When a student is going through a challenging time, it is important to be patient and listen to their needs or concerns. I also find that humor works well in assisting a student back to baseline.
What are the most important lessons you attempt to teach new staff?
Take in everyone’s perspective. This goes for both my colleagues and students. When working with anyone, it is important to understand the reasoning behind their actions and not to just jump to conclusions.
What do you love about working with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?
The compassion and dedication they have is amazing. I am constantly in awe of my students. When I think I have seen the height of their compassion, they do something that leaves me speechless.
Has this job taught you anything about yourself?
I have a voice. Prior to Latham, I mostly kept to myself and was somewhat shy. Latham has forced me to come out of my shell both personally and professionally. While working at Latham you can’t help but to advocate for your students’ needs. Not only have my students brought me out of my shell, but my colleagues are the best support system I could ask for.
How do you spend your time when you’re not working at Latham?
While not at Latham, I spend a lot of my time trying not to think about Latham! When you love what you do, it’s hard to not think about it. But when I am relaxing, going to the beach with a good book is the best. Now that’s its colder, I enjoy surrounding myself with family and friends.
What advice would you give to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers?
Do it! You will not meet a more dedicated and helpful staff. When I first started at Latham, I was petrified with starting my career. That quickly ended when I realized how united the staff are. They made me feel at home, and when I had a question, they were supportive and ready to help. Not only are the staff great, but the students are out of this world. They are creative, funny, and eager to learn. I could not ask for a better working environment. I’m lucky!
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