Our Vision
To provide a barrier free pathway for individuals with a range of abilities to discover and achieve their most meaningful purpose in life.
Our Mission
To blend cutting-edge technology with personalized mentorship to empower people with a range of abilities to discover and achieve their most fulfilling path in life.
Executive Team
Brad Duquette
Co-Founder
brad@majorchoice.com
Ed Goyette
Co-Founder
ed@majorchoice.com
Matt Foster
Interim CIO
matt@majorchoice.com
Tricia Piacentini
Curriculum Director
tricia@majorchoice.com
Administrative Team
Valerie Kipper
Director of Mentor Recruitment & Training
valerie@majorchoice.com
Karin Rando
Director of Mentor Recruitment
valerie@majorchoice.com
Mina
Student Support Specialist
mina@majorchoice.com
Alanna
Enrollment & Retention Specialist, Major Mentor
alanna@majorchoice.com
Lisa
Enrollment Support Coordinator
lisa@majorchoice.com
Mentorship Team
Dr. Dena Shade-Monuteaux
PHD
Program Advisor
Lara
Mentor
lara@majorchoice.com
Erin
Mentor
erin@majorchoice.com
Joe
Mentor
joe@majorchoice.com
Kara
Mentor
kara@majorchoice.com
Arielle
Mentor
arielle@majorchoice.com
Eleni
Mentor
eleni@majorchoice.com
Nicolle
Mentor
nicolle@majorchoice.com
Gina
Mentor
gina@majorchoice.com
Michelle
Mentor
michelle@majorchoice.com
Jim
Mentor
jim@majorchoice.com
Meet the Founders
Brad Duquette
Lost in the career maze? Brad's got your map. After his own missteps, he blazed a trail into education as an entrepreneur launching a nationally recognized company where he mentored and trained thousands of students across diverse campuses. During his travels, Brad witnessed their struggles with career clarity and rising high education costs - this frustration became fuel. He ignited a passion to guide young minds away from wasted years and money onto fulfilling paths.
Brad's impact isn't confined to classrooms. He also co-founded Helpiing, a platform sparking connections and empowering mutual support. His personal journey illuminates his professional mission. Now, watching his own children face similar choices, Brad cherishes the opportunity to make their "Major Choice" a brighter journey. Brad is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Lowell and a veteran of the Army National Guard.
Ed Goyette
Ed Goyette is a lifelong social entrepreneur who is passionate about enriching the lives of others through his work. Prior to co-founding Major Choice, he was focused on helping parents strengthen their relationship with their children through the launch of a project called “Yours for the Asking” – an engaging program that helps them put action against their child’s curiosities through the art of asking. Ed is also the founder of The Thought Center, an education course production company, and owner of BeanTowne Coffee House, a nationally award-winning café based in New Hampshire. Ed is also a Tedx Speaker and Global Presence Ambassador for one of the largest parenting organizations in the world. He is married and the proud father of three, who are a continuous source of inspiration.
Meet the Education Advisors
Valerie Kipper
Valerie Kipper received a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from UCLA, and went on to pursue a teaching credential and Master of Arts degree in Education and Psychology from Pepperdine University. Valerie worked in public health as a Health Educator and Program Coordinator before returning to graduate school at San Diego State University where she earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree, as well as a Pupil Personnel Services credential. Valerie has worked for more than ten years in public schools with students from pre-K through 12th grade as a teacher, tutor, administrator, and social worker. In addition, Valerie worked in a private practice psychiatry office for several years. She enjoys supporting young people as they work to realize their full potential. Most recently, Valerie started her own home organizing and decluttering business, specializing in helping adults with mental health challenges. In her spare time, Valerie enjoys reading, going for walks, and karaoke. She lives near Los Angeles, CA with her husband, son, cats, and hamster.
Patricia Piacentini
Tricia Piacentini is an educator with more than 20 years of experience. As a parent of two adult sons on the autism spectrum, creating opportunities for people with disabilities has been a life-long passion. Tricia has a Master’s Degree in General Education from Lesley University and a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Fitchburg State University.Tricia started her career as an educator while working for Early Intervention, a program through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Later, in her role as a special education teacher, Tricia worked with administration to create, develop, and implement a program for students on the autism spectrum for Amesbury Public Schools. Additionally, Tricia has worked as a Home Trainer, teaching students with special needs how to generalize their skills across home and community settings. Tricia continues to work with students with a variety of disabilities including autism, adhd,and language-based learning disabilities, in a co-taught classroom, where students are able to receive services in an integrated setting. Tricia maintains three teaching licenses including Elementary Education, Moderate Special Needs, and Severe Special Needs and holds an Autism Endorsement through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Tricia knows first-hand that adults with disabilities can build rich and meaningful lives through their work. Nothing gives Tricia more joy than watching students prove to themselves how very capable they are.
Tricia lives in Massachusetts with her husband and two sons.
Karin Rando
I am a licensed Occupational Therapist with over two decades of experience serving both pediatric and adult populations across school-based, skilled nursing, and community settings. My career has been defined by a commitment to individualized care, collaborative teamwork, and administrative excellence. In the Public Schools, I have led comprehensive evaluations, facilitated IEP teams, and coordinated extended school year programming, while also stepping into leadership roles such as Interim Team Chairperson. I bring a strong ability to mentor colleagues and support staff, fostering professional growth and ensuring high standards of care. My clinical background is complemented by a foundation in business administration and finance, equipping me with strong organizational, billing, and supervisory skills. I’m adept with technology, experienced in grant writing, and passionate about inclusive, student-centered programming that supports meaningful participation and outcomes for all.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family at Disney, gardening, scrapbooking, and cheering on my son as he plays goalie in soccer and ice hockey.
Meet the Mentors
Lara
Lara has a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and has spent her career supporting adults with developmental disabilities and autism throughout New Hampshire and Massachusetts. She's worked in various settings - from direct support in residential programs to crisis intervention and employment services. Most recently, she was an Adult Autism Specialist helping connect people with community resources and social opportunities.
What motivates Lara is using person-centered approaches that help individuals set and achieve their own goals. She believes everyone deserves support to reach their potential.
Lara lives in southern New Hampshire with her husband, daughter, and dog. She's active in her local Lions Club and enjoys concerts, baking, and taking Irish step dancing lessons.
Joe
Joe has a Psychology degree and is currently pursuing his Master's in Special Education. He began his career as a mental health counselor at a psychiatric hospital, helping individuals with serious mental illness transition to independent living.
Currently, Joe works as a learning disabilities teacher, creating individualized education plans for students with various learning and emotional disabilities. He believes strongly in meeting people where they are at, and making a difference in the lives of others.
Joe is also an avid hiker and skier, and enjoys spending time with his finance and cat.
Kara
Kara has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in School Counseling, with twenty years of experience working with students from kindergarten through high school. She currently serves as a School Counselor and Admissions Counselor at a public virtual school, and has also worked as a middle school counselor in traditional school settings.
What drives Kara is helping students discover and reach their full potential, whether they're navigating academic challenges, planning for their future, or working through personal obstacles. She's passionate about meeting students where they are and providing the support they need to succeed.
Kara loves spending time with her family outdoors - whether they're gardening, hiking, camping, or out on the water boating.
Erin
Erin has a Bachelor's degree in Music Education and Oboe Performance and has been teaching music in Massachusetts public schools for five years. As an elementary music educator, she's passionate about social emotional learning and student-centered growth, creating innovative curricula that she now presents to fellow music educators across the state.
Beyond the classroom, Erin wears many hats - coaching a social emotional running group, teaching dance and private instrumental lessons, and leading student leadership initiatives. Having started her career during a global pandemic, she understands the unique challenges young adults face when launching their professional lives.
Erin's personal experiences have shaped her perspective on resilience and potential. Growing up with a younger sister who has a rare genetic condition, she's witnessed firsthand how individuals with disabilities can overcome challenges and build meaningful, fulfilling lives.
In her free time, Erin enjoys running, playing the oboe, and spending time with her cat named Butter.
Alanna
Alanna has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Education and a Master's/Certificate of Advanced Study in School Psychology. As a Nationally Certified School Psychologist, she began her career at a transformation zone school, conducting psychological assessments, managing behavior and academic plans, and providing individual and group counseling for students and families.
Her work led her to become a Trauma Informed Care training facilitator, reflecting her commitment to supporting students who have experienced trauma. Currently, Alanna is also a registered yoga teacher, with plans to integrate this practice into her work with teens who have experienced trauma.
Having navigated different career paths herself, Alanna is passionate about helping students explore their options and create paths that align with their own passions and values. She understands that finding the right direction takes time and self-reflection.
Alanna loves being outdoors - whether she's hiking mountains or relaxing on the beach with her hound dog Shasta.
Arielle
Arielle has a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and has taught in public schools for twelve years. She's passionate about building relationships with learners and particularly enjoys mathematics and science education. She recently received her district's Distinguished Teaching Award for her leadership and ability to empower students to achieve their individual goals.
Currently teaching in a full inclusion classroom, Arielle collaborates with colleagues to support students with diverse learning profiles. She also serves on instructional leadership teams, reflecting her commitment to curriculum development and educational best practices.
Arielle values mentoring new educators and collaborating with colleagues to improve teaching practices. Having navigated her career across different educational environments, she understands the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in education.
She enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, being outdoors, practicing yoga, and tap dancing.
Eleni
Eleni is a high school Speech-Language Pathologist with a bachelor's degree in Communication Disorders and later went on to get her Master's degree. She has spent several years working with students across various educational and clinical settings, from private schools to pediatric clinics.
Eleni is passionate about language and communication and enjoys helping students overcome challenges to express themselves effectively. Her diverse experience has given her insight into how speech-language pathology can make a real difference in students' academic and social success.
Outside of work, Eleni loves exploring new places through travel, spending time at the beach, and enjoying time with family and friends. She also loves walking her pup Freddo!
Nicolle
Nicolle has a Bachelor's degree in History with a minor in Secondary Education and a Master's degree in Curriculum Administration. After teaching high school social studies, she transitioned into her current role as a School to Career Transition Coordinator.
In this position, Nicolle helps students explore career possibilities through internships, informational interviews, industry professional meet-and-greets, and community service opportunities. She's passionate about helping students discover their strengths and explore career fields that align with their interests and talents.
Having made her own career transition from classroom teaching to career coordination, Nicolle understands how important it is to find work that matches your passions and skills. She brings enthusiasm and practical experience to helping students navigate their own career exploration journey.
Nicolle enjoys traveling, cooking new recipes, and spending time with her family and dog.
Gina
Gina has a bachelor's degree in Public Health and has dedicated her professional career to working in direct care services with individuals on the autism spectrum. She is currently completing her Master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, driven by her commitment to helping people with disabilities become empowered and fulfilled in both their personal and professional lives.
Gina's approach focuses on supporting individuals to reach their full potential while honoring their unique strengths and perspectives. Her background in public health combined with specialized training in behavior analysis gives her a comprehensive understanding of how to create meaningful support systems.
Outside of her professional life, Gina enjoys practicing yoga and breathwork, spending time in nature, and attending live music events.
Michelle
Michelle has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Fine Arts and a Master's degree in Elementary Education. With twenty years of experience teaching at the elementary level, she currently works as a fourth-grade teacher and is passionate about guiding students in discovering their interests and building confidence in achieving their goals.
Michelle's dual background in psychology and fine arts brings a unique perspective to her teaching, helping her understand both how children learn and how creative expression can support their development. Her extensive classroom experience has taught her the importance of meeting each student where they are and helping them discover their own strengths.
Michelle enjoys painting, gardening, and spending time outdoors with her family.
Jim
My name is Jim, and I’m a high school social studies teacher at my alma mater in Derry, NH, and an adjunct college professor. My education journey is an interesting one, as I originally set out to be a sports agent. My dream was to be the next "Jerry Maguire," but I eventually earned a master’s degree in finance and worked in the financial and insurance world for several years. During that time, I started coaching baseball and discovered my true passion was in teaching and mentoring. That realization led me to a rewarding career in education, where I’ve found great purpose helping students unlock their potential.
Outside of teaching, I enjoy coaching baseball, playing golf, and traveling with my wife. We live in Derry with our one-year-old daughter and spend much of our time with extended family or working on investment properties with my brothers. I believe education is one of the most valuable investments you can make in yourself, and I strive to create a welcoming, supportive learning environment. I’m always accessible and here to support you on your academic journey.
Major Choice Mentor Background Check Policy
At Major Choice, the safety and well-being of our students are our top priorities. To ensure a secure and supportive learning environment, we conduct thorough background checks on all potential mentors using Checkr, Inc., a consumer reporting agency.
Our Background Check Process
All mentor applicants undergo the following background checks:
- Sex Offender Registry Search: This checks if the candidate is registered as a sex offender in any jurisdiction.
- Global Watchlist Records Search: This screens the candidate against global databases to identify any potential matches with individuals on watchlists or sanctions lists.
- National Criminal Records Search: This searches federal databases for any criminal records associated with the candidate.
- Social Security Number (SSN) Trace: This verifies the candidate's identity and confirms that the provided SSN matches their name.
Disqualifying Offenses
While we review each application on a case-by-case basis, certain offenses may disqualify an individual from becoming a Major Choice mentor. These include, but are not limited to:
- Any felony conviction
- Any misdemeanor conviction related to violence, abuse, neglect, or exploitation of children
- Any offense requiring registration as a sex offender
Confidentiality
All information obtained through the background check process is kept strictly confidential and used solely for the purpose of determining mentor eligibility in compliance with applicable laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Commitment to Safety
Major Choice is committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. Our background check policy is an essential part of our commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety and responsibility in our mentoring program.
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Major Choice LLC