The inaugural Sachem Education Foundation (SEF) grant recipients were announced at the most recent Sachem Board of Education work session, marking a new investment in innovative, student-centered projects across the district. SEF, a 501(c)(3) led by community members, donated $25,000 to support initiatives that will launch during the 2025–26 school year.

Funding was generated from SEF’s inaugural gala held last spring. Sachem teachers and staff applied for grants over the summer, and the SEF Grant Committee - comprised entirely of volunteer community members - reviewed submissions and selected recipients based on several criteria focused on student impact and feasibility.

2025–26 SEF Grant Recipients

• Seneca – VR Program — $5,000 (Lead: Michelle Giglio)
• Middle School – iPad Art — $4,500 (Lead: Amanda Foran)
• High School – Student Media — $4,000 (Lead: Phil Torregrosa)
• Cayuga – Greenhouse — $3,500 (Lead: Tracy Bazarewski)
• District-wide – Drum’s Alive — $3,500 (Lead: Christina Schaefer)
• Samoset – Prevocational Coffee — $1,800 (Lead: Christina Gieck)
• Merrimac – Sensory Room — $1,500 (Lead: Elizabeth Tucci)
• Wenonah – Sensory Room — $1,200 (Lead: Ashley Frezza)

In total, SEF awarded $25,000 to eight projects that will enhance learning experiences, support student wellness, and expand opportunities across Sachem.

Save the date: The next SEF Gala is scheduled for April 15, 2026 - come out and support so we can keep growing these opportunities for students. Further updates on project implementation will be shared as they roll out during the school year.

About SEF: The Sachem Education Foundation enhances the quality of public education through innovation in our school buildings, focusing on programs that extend beyond the normal scope of the curriculum. This is achieved through community engagement and the compassion of generous people who understand the value of education and embody our “We Are Sachem” community spirit. The Foundation’s vision is to offer opportunities for Kindergarten through 12th grade and showcase Sachem Schools as a place of educational equity, innovation, and scholarship.