Recently joining the Wolf community as a Speech/Language Therapist, Rachel Frady has jumped right into learning all about the Wolf Way! Learn more about one of our newest staff members below in our latest We Are Wolf interview!

1. Can you briefly tell us about your background?

I grew up in the quiet and beautiful beach town of Little Compton, Rhode Island. For my high school senior project, I explored a career in Speech-Language Pathology by observing an SLP in Early Intervention and creating communication milestone pamphlets for parents of young children. My love for Speech-Language Pathology blossomed. I went on to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Communicative Disorders and a Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Rhode Island. Following graduate school and prior to my transition to Wolf, I worked at the Bradley Schools. The irreplaceable experience I had learning from children with psychiatric needs strengthened my ability to empathetically support children as they navigate academic and social pursuits. 

2. What do you find to be the most rewarding part of being an SLP?

Speech Pathology was an easy choice for me – my nickname growing up was “chatterbox” and I always knew I wanted to work with children! As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I am humbled to have the opportunity to help students connect with their world, form relationships, share ideas, and access novel information by supporting their use and understanding of language.

3. What motivated you to want to work with Complex Learners?

My journey to becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist began to emerge when I was about 12 years old, as I volunteered with individuals with intellectual differences at my local community center. It was here where I first observed the restrictive challenges that often accompany a communication deficit. I also witnessed uninhibited joy and genuine self expression and knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life working with Complex Learners!  

4. What’s been your favorite thing about working at Wolf so far?

So many things… After my first day at Wolf, I left beaming and excitedly shared with my family and friends that the day was a 10/10. I was welcomed by the friendliest students and staff who helped me make a seamless transition. Wolf students have a unique kindness, patience, resilience, and humor that make our school a place where all individuals feel valued. Rather than working on skills in isolation apart from the classroom and waiting for skills to generalize, Wolf’s Immersion Model allows me to naturally target communicative aspects of academic and social learning in real time. 

5. What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

The beach will always be my happy place. In my free time, I enjoy relaxing in the sun, traveling with family and friends, and practicing yoga. 

We are so excited Rachel has joined our incredible team of faculty and staff members! With her positivity and talent, we know she’ll make a fantastic addition to Wolf! Welcome, Rachel! Want to read more? Check out past We Are Wolf interviews!