Putnam, Dana W

Founded in 1962, Abilities First offers a range of services and programs for people with disabilities. Based in Wappingers Falls, N.Y., the organization provides various rehabilitation, employment, education, vocational and residential support services, along with social work. It also operates Abilities First Preschool that engages in imparting education and training to children with disabilities. The preschool offers programs in partnership with Committees on Preschool Special Education (CPSE), rendering individual therapy sessions and daily classroom activities. The school's programs are imparted by certified special education teachers and children evaluation, transportation and tuition costs are funded by the NYS Education Department and local County Health Departments.

Butler High School offers educational services to students in grades nine through 12. Located in Butler, N.J., its curriculum includes English, math, science and social science. Its sophomore class organizes fundraising sales of wrapping paper and T-shirts. Its freshmen class officers and homeroom representatives are responsible for fundraising for future events throughout their high school career. Its junior class special activities include ring delivery and breakfast, junior and senior prom and The Annual Tricky Tray. Its Academy for Law and Public Safety is a full-time, four-year high school program for students in ninth grade. It provides students various opportunities in the arts, athletics and extracurricular activities. Its guidance center offers counseling and information about scholarship.