PUTNAM COUNTY- Putnam-Northern Westchester BOCES Deputy Superintendent Lynn Allen has devoted her life to work in education on behalf of individuals with disabilities.
Allen was honored this week as the 2026 recipient of the NYCASE Friend of Special Education Award during the organization’s 24th Annual Summer Conference in Syracuse.
The Friend of Special Education Award is given in recognition of the lifetime achievement of an individual who has advocated for the needs of students with disabilities and their families by influencing the development of policy or legislation.
Allen was recognized as a champion for individuals with disabilities, reflecting 35 years in education, including 28 years in leadership roles.
She currently oversees the professional learning, technology, communications and creative services divisions among other programs and services at BOCES also serving as co-facilitator of the PNW BOCES’ Regional Crisis Team and Administrators Regional Crisis Team.
Former Carmel Superintendent of Schools Thomas Higgins who worked alongside Allen while employed as a BOCES administrator called the honoree an “outstanding leader. Dr. Allen developed strong relationships with our component districts and focused on providing quality learning experiences for students with disabilities.”
Allen has also served as an adjunct professor at Bank Street College where she taught special education leadership courses to hundreds of educators throughout the Hudson Valley.
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