About Us
THE MISSION
The mission of the Somers Education Foundation is to preserve the community’s commitment to educational excellence in the Somers Public Schools, by providing funding for innovative projects and programs which enhance student learning.
THE FOUNDATION
The Foundation is registered with the State of Connecticut and with the Internal Revenue Service as a non-profit 501c3 organization and is bound by their regulations. It is governed by a volunteer board of directors who oversee the Foundation's operation. The membership of the Foundation's board includes Somers business persons, school parents, senior citizens, and other community leaders. Ex-officio board members include the Superintendent of Schools, Chairperson of the Board of Education, a member of the Board of Selectmen, and a certified public accountant. The Foundation is a non-political entity, independent of both the Board of Education and town government regulations.
WHAT DOES SEF DO?
- Provides educational grants to expand student’s horizons beyond the usual classroom experience. The grant requests are submitted by teachers.
- Provides professional educational development grants that pay registration and materials fees for teachers.
- Creates partnerships with civic organizations, businesses and citizens.
- Raises private funds.
WHY AN EDUCATION FOUNDATION?
Simply put, tax support for public education has not kept pace with the community’s high expectations for students success. The Foundation will provide funding to augment the tax supported budget. The Foundation's work may supplement the Board of Education's educational priorities, but it is not a substitute for them. The Foundation will not fund items and programs considered to be a normal part of the school budget.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
The Somers Education Foundation has played a vital role in supporting the Somers School System with cutting edge projects not normally funded from within the Education Department's annual operating budget. In just 20 years, SEF has awarded $711,565 for innovative projects and professional development and grown its endowment to $1,012,356. SEF was named the best new Education Foundation in 2004 and Foundation of The Year in 2014 by the Connecticut Consortium of Education Foundations.