New Special Education liaison Amanda Brotherton brings a fresh perspective and positive attitude to her role supporting students at Algonquin. 

Brotherton graduated from The College of William and Mary in Virginia with degrees in Economics and Kinesiology. She was unsure which career to pursue until she had a realization that set her on her path that ultimately led to Algonquin.

“I literally woke up one day and just decided to be a teacher,” Brotherton said.

Brotherton first planned to be a Science teacher following her studies in college before considering a career in Special Education.

“My initial license was in middle school Science, and then, coming out of college, I worked as a support staff member and decided then that Special Education was the way I wanted to go,” Brotherton said.

After being at a previous school district and in the education field for 12 years, Brotherton felt the environment was not right for her. 

“I was talking to [my neighbor] over winter last year because I was finding myself that I wasn’t as thrilled as I should’ve been, where I was,” Brotherton said.

Brotherton’s neighbor, who works in the Northborough Southborough district, talked to her about applying to Algonquin because of its positive atmosphere. Not long after, Brotherton got the job.

“When I came [to Algonquin], it just felt right,” Brotherton said. “The district is amazing; it’s very supportive and the community is great.”

Brotherton appreciates the collegiality she’s experienced at Algonquin so far.

“I would say it’s very welcoming,” Brotherton said. “This place is awesome, everyone’s super supportive, really nice people.”

One of Brotherton’s students, sophomore Allie Young, is thankful for Brotherton’s ability to help. 

“She is willing to reach out and work with your teachers to help you understand your work,” Young said. 

Young enjoys Brotherton’s comedic and positive demeanor, as well as her ability to explain difficult work well. Young also appreciates how Brotherton also cares deeply about her students’ well-being.

“I was crying the other day, and she literally went up to my classroom to give me chocolate,” Young said.

Brotherton said she genuinely enjoys helping out her students and continuing to stay close to them even after they graduate. She loves watching her previous students grow up and have their own families. 

Brotherton also loves the excitement that this job title is filled with. 

“No day is the same which keeps me on my toes,” Brotherton said. “I love staying busy and having a purpose during the school day.”