Monarch School of New England Expands University Partnerships to Support and Recruit the Next Generation of Professionals
Monarch School of New England (MSNE) continues to strengthen its commitment to workforce development in special education and therapeutic services through active partnerships with colleges and universities across New England. By welcoming interns, practicum students, and observers into its collaborative learning environment, Monarch is helping prepare the next generation of educators, therapists, and nurses.
Monarch provides hands-on practicum placements for students pursuing careers in special education, therapy, and nursing. The school also welcomes university students interested in observation hours or job shadowing experiences, offering meaningful exposure to interdisciplinary teamwork in a highly specialized educational setting. For the current school year, Monarch is hosting interns from Franklin Pierce University, Great Bay Community College, Husson University, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, MGH Institute of Health Professions, and University of New Hampshire.
Front Row - Left to Right: Erica Mann, Director of Related Services - MSNE (former intern), Kaitlyn McKinnon, Physical Therapy Intern from MGH Institute of Health Professions, Jessica Roy, Physical Therapist - MSNE (clinical supervisor), Kelsey Motto, Physical Therapist - MSNE (former intern) Back Row - Left to Right: Lacey Fowler, Occupational Therapist - MSNE (clinical supervisor), Jason Smith, Physical Therapy Assistant (former intern), Kenzie Lloyd, Occupational Therapy Intern from Mass College of Pharmacy and Health Services, Courtney Esty, Physical Therapist - MSNE (former intern and clinical supervisor)
“Monarch is a unique learning environment for university interns,” said Erica Mann, Director of Related Services. “Our school's emphasis on collaboration teaches interns how to work closely with other professionals and how to embed therapy services into instructional activities so that students can access their education. Our innovative treatment programs, such as hippotherapy, aquatic therapy, and horticultural therapy, also provide experiences that interns may not otherwise have access to.”
Over the past ten years, more than 100 interns across related disciplines have completed placements at Monarch. Many return for additional experiences, and some ultimately choose to build their careers at the school. “Many interns really connect deeply with our students, our team, and our mission during their time with us,” Mann continued. “In fact, six of our current staff members are actually former interns, and many others have returned to work at Monarch over the years.”
A defining feature of Monarch’s internship program is the mentorship provided by its experienced staff. Educators, therapists, and nurses serve as supervisors and guides, sharing expertise, demonstrating clinical skills and instructional methods, and modeling collaborative practices that ensure students with complex needs can fully access their education. Interns gain practical skills, professional confidence, and a deeper understanding of individualized, student-centered instruction.
By investing in emerging professionals today, Monarch is helping ensure that students with significant disabilities continue to be supported by knowledgeable, compassionate professionals who recognize their strengths and potential.
Universities and students interested in practicum placements, internships, or observation opportunities are encouraged to learn more at https://www.monarchschoolne.org/university-partnerships-and-collaboration.