Somers Education Foundation to Honor Bayer, Benedetto, and Winter

SOMERS, N.Y. - Since 1994, the Somers Education Foundation (SEF) has been dedicated to enhancing the educational experience of Somers students.

Made up of community members, district personnel, and parents, the group raises funds for projects initiated by students and teachers that are not funded within the Somers Central School District’s budget. Since its inception, the SEF has awarded 450 grants and scholarships in the amount of $1.8 million. 

In addition to these exemplary efforts, the SEF is also set to recognize the efforts of three educators at their Hall of Fame Awards Reception on Thursday, Oct. 17. To be held at Villa Barone Hilltop Manor in Mahopac, the evening will honor Hall of Fame inductees Mark Bayer, Meg Benedetto, and Katie Winter. 

Mark Bayer

Mark Bayer served as principal of Somers High School for 12 years and retired in June, capping off a 33-year career in education. As principal, Bayer led the implementation of the International Baccalaureate Programme and was known for his thoughtful and witty musical performances at the Somers High School graduation ceremony each year.

Throughout his career in education, he always put students first and prided himself on his ability to connect with others.  

Meg Benedetto

Meg Benedetto has served as the assistant principal at Primrose Elementary School for the last eight years. A member of SEEAT since its inception and an annual attendee of the Inclusive Schooling Summer workshop, she has spent much of her time on SCSD’s work with Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Meg finds joy in being at the Primrose bus line and walking the halls, and values the strong connections to students, family and staff. 

Katie Winter

Katie Winter has been principal of Primrose Elementary School since 2010. She is passionate about early literacy and is proud of the Primrose team’s commitment to innovative, research-based literacy instruction. Under her leadership, Primrose has been at the forefront of integrating engaging, high quality instructional methods. She has also been instrumental in growing and expanding the school’s Universal Pre-K program. In addition to her principal responsibilities, Katie contributes to the PNW BOCES Regional Crisis Team, focusing on best practices in crisis prevention and intervention. 

The event at Villa Barone will be held from 6 to 10 p.m., and will feature music, a buffet, dessert, and beer and wine. Funds raised will benefit The Somers Education Foundation. To purchase tickets, visit sefny.org