Name: Linda Sternberg

Hometown: Newton - I have lived in Newton my whole life! I grew up here and went to Newton Public Schools. I raised my two sons Michael (37) and Matthew (32) in Newton and one year ago I sold my house and moved two miles away to Chestnut Hill (Brookline). My heart will always live in Newton!

Position: Consulting Teacher

Educational Background: I graduated from The George Washington University in 1974 with dual degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education.

Years at NECP: I have worked for Newton Public Schools since 1974 as a special education teacher. I took a break after six years to stay home with my children and started at NECP 25 years ago.

Typical Day at NECP: There is no such thing as a typical day! I am on the road much of the time observing children and consulting with teachers in their community preschools. I collaborate with NECP teachers and therapists about newly referred and current students. I also do many of the home visits for children transitioning from Early Intervention to Newton Public Schools. Much of my office time is spent on the phone listening to and supporting parents. The best part of my day is getting to know so many of the preschoolers... it makes me realize how much I miss being a classroom teacher! I love when they come into my office and visit my “magic drawer” filled with stickers!

Hobbies/Interests: I love spending time with my family…son Michael and his wife Vanessa (the best daughter-in- law in the world), son Matthew, my 89-year- old dad, and my wonderful boyfriend of 7 years Bruce. I play tennis, golf and go to the gym as often as I can. I love to cook, bake and entertain! I find any excuse to host a party with my family and friends! I love to travel and can pack with a moment’s notice. I also love trying new restaurants and eat out often. Giving back to the community is very important to me. I volunteer on the Board of Overseers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Gateways; Pathways to Jewish Education, and American Heart Association.

What do you love most about working at NECP? I meet many parents and children as they begin the journey of special education. I love being able to hold the hands and hearts of families whose children make the transition from community preschool or E.I. to a classroom or therapies at NECP. What a joy to see the happy, proud faces of children and their families as they grow and flourish!

What makes working at NECP unique? NECP is a magical place to be! We have a unique staff that loves what they do and truly functions as a family. We are there for each other, support each other, and truly love each other. What a joy to work with such a smart, incredible group of people whose goal is to support children and their families to be the best they can be! I am truly blessed to be part of the NECP staff!

What did you want to be when you grew up? I always wanted to be a teacher. I have a picture of myself at age six playing school “dressed up” as a teacher (bathrobe and high heels). I guess little has changed…except my outfit!

What's on your bucket list? I am turning 65 at the end of March and I have to say that I feel so lucky that I have a very full bucket! My “to do” bucket list is to keep doing what I’m doing...staying healthy and active, enjoying my family and friends and then maybe a return trip to Israel!