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Exceptional Children

Claudia Dennis

EC Adaptive Teacher
Associate Degree - Special Education, The Mico University, Jamaica
Bachelors - Business Administration, University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC), Jamaica
M.Ed. in Literacy, American College of Education
Exceptional Children, Cedar Creek Middle
Claudia Dennis is an Exceptional Children (EC) teacher serving students with cognitive disabilities in a self-contained classroom. She creates a structured, supportive environment focused on independence and functional learning.

Before becoming an educator, she worked as a business administrator and accounting clerk. Her business background strengthens her organization, data management, and IEP planning skills as she helps each student reach their full potential.

Ms. Alyssa Gupton

Seventh Grade EC Resource Teacher
A.A. Associates of Art, Wake Technical Community College
B.S. Sociology, East Carolina University
Exceptional Children
Alyssa Gupton is a Franklin County native. Ms. Gupton is a beginning teacher who is passionate about supporting diverse learners. She strives to create an inclusive and supportive environment where students can grow both academically and personally. She is committed to helping children reach their full potential and to continuously expanding her own knowledge to better serve her students.

Ruth Parsons

Adaptive EC
AA Community and Human Services, SUNY Empire State
BA Literature and Cultural Studies, SUNY Empire State
MA Asian Studies One Child Policy, SUNY Empire State
Exceptional Children, Cedar Creek Middle
Ruth has been working in the education field since 2007, both in New York State and North Carolina. She is passionate about helping EC students reach their highest possible success in life. She is married with four adult children, one of whom is intellectually disabled..

Denise Puett

Teacher
BA Psychology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Special Education - General Ed, East Carolina University
Exceptional Children, 7th
Denise Puett is a Franklin County native. CCMS has a special place in her heart as both of her children were CCMS Jags. She is a special education teacher with extensive experience working with students with a range of learning disabilities. Mrs. Puett firmly believes that great educators learn and grow with their students and is thankful for the opportunity to help young minds develop and flourish.

Nikki Van Loan

Behavioral Support Specialist
Associates Early Childhood Education, Broward College
Exceptional Children

LaTasha Wilder

Exceptional Children 6th Grade
B.S. Psychology, Elizabeth City State University
Elementary Education Certification, North Carolina Licnesure
Master School of Administraton/ Cross Categorical Education, Grand Canyon University
Exceptional Children, 6th, Cedar Creek Middle
LaTasha Wilder is a native of Franklinton. She is a proud graduate of Elizabeth City State University. She is married with 2 loving children. She is innovative and willing to take the path less taken. Her favorite scripture is Matthew 6:33 Seek ye first the kingdom of God...