By Ron P. Coderre

On what some called a “special day” Putnam Science Academy held a press conference clarifying and setting the tone for what will be a long and cooperative tenure for the school in the Putnam community.  According to school President Dr. Tieqiang Ding, “This is a new day that I’m very excited about for our students and the town of Putnam.”

In May of 2015 the former owners of Putnam Science Academy, the Wellspring Foundation, unexpectedly announced the closing of the school that had been in existence for more than a dozen years.  The uncertainty surrounding the announcement with regard to the school and the physical plant left Putnam residents and others with many questions. 

Acting quickly and with a sense of urgency Dr. Ding and his associates came to the rescue.  They moved with alacrity in allaying the fears of local residents.  Following discussions and negotiation that lasted throughout the summer, Putnam Science Academy opened its doors in September, essentially the same school with new owners.

Currently the school has 18 students, primarily all members of the basketball team.  There is a full complement of faculty, conducting classes daily.  Dr. Ding also introduced Donald Cushing, a former school principal in Massachusetts, as the school’s headmaster.  Cushing heads up a team that includes assistant administrator Owen Quantick, college counselor Albert Cormier and athletic director and basketball coach Thomas Espinosa.

In speaking to the question of why he decided to continue the school in Putnam, Dr. Ding said, “My lifelong dream (of having a school) is real.  The people of Putnam are so nice.  It made our decision very easy.  We want our relationship with this community to last forever.” 

 Cushing equated the current situation with that of the original Putnam Science Academy, which started with a handful of students and grew each year.  He noted that the goal is to steadily grow the school from its current number to 50 then 75 and eventually 125 students.  Plans also call for the school to someday become co-educational with 75 to 80 per cent coming from the U.S. and the remainder as international students.  The school is offering six scholarships in an effort to entice students to think of Putnam Science Academy as a school of choice.

“We’re educating and renovating.  Our mission is to form students into knowledgeable, responsible individuals who will become contributing members of society.  We are like the pioneers and pilgrims beginning on a new venture,” said Cushing.

The school will continue the process of becoming accredited, a process that was started by the former administration.  The student body will operate under the acronym, PSA. P for personal development, S for service (locally and globally) and A for Academics.  The curriculum will continue its focus on science, math and technology as well as social studies and SAT preparation.  

Coach Tom Espinosa, as anticipated, drew the largest ovation from the students.  In his remarks he stated, “This is a very special place to me.  I’ve been here every day since it’s opened.  I’ve watched as the school has helped so many students over the years and I’m very proud of the students. It’s exciting to be back.”

Two students, Yunus Demiskol and Saul Phiri, members of the basketball team also addressed the audience.  Demiskol, who comes from Istanbul, Turkey, is in his fourth year at the school.  He expressed a strong sentiment for the school and his ability to study in a calm environment.

The ownership and administration of Putnam Science Academy has undergone a complete transformation.  It appears that the mission of strong academics and athletics remains a primary focus.  As renovations begin the physical plant is gradually taking on a new appearance.  Initially the commitment to the community is one of partnership and hopes of longevity in Putnam.

A new phase is beginning with new hope, vitality and enthusiasm.  Putnam Science Academy is back in the business of educating students.