Special Education

The Special Education process is initiated by a referral; a written request for an evaluation of a child who is suspected of having a disability that requires specially designed instruction.  A referral to Special Education can be made at any time by a faculty member, parent/guardian, or student.  Once the referral is made, a planning and placement team meeting is scheduled.  The team discusses the concerns brought forth and data is reviewed.  The team determines if evaluations are warranted.  For more information, please review A Parent’s Guide to Special Education.
 
NameJob TitlePhoneEmail Address
Rebecca LopesDirector of Student Services(860) 963-6900 ext. 4019lopesr@putnam.k12.ct.us
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Rebecca (Becky) Lopes has served as the Director of Student Services of the Putnam Public Schools since July of 2021.

 

She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Simmons College, a M.A. in Special Education from Bridgewater State University and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Educational Leadership from Bridgewater State University. Ms. Lopes has over twenty years of experience as a special educator having taught in North Attleboro, MA, Avon, MA and Plainfield, CT.  Ms. Lopes has a passion for reading instruction and has several certifications in the Wilson Reading System and has worked in collaboration with reading specialists to address reading gaps in the districts she has worked in.  

 

Ms. Lopes transitioned to an administration position as a Supervisor of Special Education in the Southbridge Public Schools.  Soon thereafter, Ms. Lopes advanced to be the Assistant Director of Pupil Services and Special Education in Colchester, CT which prepared her for her current role as Director of Student Services.

 

Outside of work she enjoys weightlifting, family walks and hikes, and attending her children's sporting events. 

NameJob TitlePhoneEmail Address
Heidi L CliffordStudent Services Secretary(860) 963-6900 ext. 4021hclifford@putnamschoolsct.org