PUTNAM-WESTCHESTER BOCES

It all began on September 9, 1948 when a group of 40 people met to discuss the new intermediate district legislation. On that date the second BOCES in the state became a reality. Five newly elected board members joined District Superintendent Robert E. Bell in the venture. Over the years, our commitment to excellence and innovation in responding to the needs of our component school districts, the needs of other districts across New York State, and of thousands of adult students as well, has created an array of services that have been recognized repeatedly at the regional, state, and national level as the best that public education has to offer.In Special Education, we open new possibilities in movement and self-sufficiency for multiply disabled students; in behavior management and the creation of positive behavioral environments; and in Response to Intervention, wich integrates general education and special education intervention in order to turn failure into success at the earliest possible moment. Our Regional Alternative High School provides a path to success for students who might otherwise be unable to graduate from high schoool. Our Walkabout program helps disengaged students find confiidence and direction.Our Career and Technical Education Center offers a wide range of career and college training opportunities, including Career Academies, which integrate academics with technical training. We also help hundreds of adults who are changing careers, learning English, or pursuing a delayed high school education.