10 Trudeau Truths with Pathways Special Education Teacher Lori Johnson

You know them as the educators, caregivers and leaders who work to keep everything running smoothly so that our clients at the Trudeau Memorial Center can have the best experience possible. But what are they like when they’re off the clock? 

Here’s a chance to get a more personal look at the people who make up the team at Trudeau… 10 questions at a time.

10 Trudeau Truths with Lori Johnson

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in human services?

I have wanted to be a teacher since I was in elementary school. I had many great role models, including family members and teachers, who have shaped the person and teacher that I am today. Teaching is more than just providing an ‘education’, it is about helping others, building confidence, establishing trust, being a ‘mentor’, and providing support in many areas of life.

2. What do you find most rewarding about your job?

THE KIDS! I have had the honor of teaching some of the most amazing students over my 18 years working at Pathways. Everything about them: their personalities, learning styles, their interests, and witnessing their achievements is what I find most rewarding about my job.

3. Can you describe a memorable moment or success story from your time working at Trudeau?

I think some of my fondest memories working at Pathways were seeing former students that started out with me in the elementary years either move up within the program and graduate or transition back to their home school district. That is what it is all about! Providing our students with the tools they need to succeed in all areas and be as independent as possible. I have loved the many memories from the Special Olympics sports events that Pathways students have participated in over the years.

4. What’s something about people with differing abilities (or working with them) that you wish other people knew or better understood?

Never underestimate their abilities-they deserve to belong, learn, and to also be challenged, build on the strengths to help meet their needs. Working with them has taught me the importance of flexibility, patience, and knowing each learner as an individual. I believe that my students, along with their families and support systems advocating for them, have made me the teacher I am today.

5. What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend?

My favorite way to spend a weekend would be spending time with my husband Ben, listening to music, watching the New England Patriots, getting takeout from Greggs Restaurant, and walking my two dogs all over the neighborhood.

6. Favorite book, movie, and/or TV show.

My favorite movie is Home Alone-I pretty much know the entire movie word for word. I love all kinds of music, everything from Fleetwood Mac to 90’s boybands!

7. Do you have any pets?

Animals have always been a huge part of my life-everyone that knows me knows that I love dogs!! If I did not become a teacher, I probably would have gotten a job working with animals! Currently, I have two dogs, Ace the Beagle, and Molly, who is a mixed breed. They are spoiled rotten and I consider them my kids!!

8. What’s your favorite food?

Chicken parm is a go- to for me, and I always love a good salad (with all the veggies and grilled chicken on top). I love a slice of cheesecake for dessert.

9. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

I would love to visit Italy or Ireland one day, since I am both Irish and Italian!!

10. What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?

My first job was swirling ice cream cones at my grandparent’s ice cream shop!!