Babylon Memorial Grade School Welcomes New Principal

The Babylon Union Free School District has appointed Steve Benner as the new principal of Babylon Memorial Grade School, effective this school year. He replaces Lauren Fretto, who has been appointed assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction for the Floral Park-Bellerose Union Free School District.

Mr. Benner most recently served as Assistant Principal and Dean of Students at Mineola Middle School, a role he held since 2018. In that capacity, he led the creation of an integrated curriculum aligned with Next Generation Standards, facilitated professional learning communities, and developed personalized learning pathways for students. He also managed building-level operations, including technology deployment, testing coordination, and student support services.

Prior to his tenure in Mineola, Benner taught social studies at Wantagh Middle and High School for six years and served as an associate dean, handling disciplinary matters, safety initiatives, and student support. He also held an administrative internship at Wantagh High School, where he contributed to district visioning and committee work on safety, attendance, and discipline.

Benner holds advanced certificates in School Building Leadership and School District Leadership from the College of St. Rose, a Master of Arts in Social Studies Education from Adelphi University (summa cum laude), and additional certifications from Hofstra University and Nassau Community College. He was also a recipient of the 2025 BOCES NASTAR Award for Technological Educational Leadership.

“It has been the greatest honor of my career to be appointed as the principal of Babylon Memorial Grade School and look forward to upholding the values of our great community,” he said. “The Grade School will continue to be a place where all students feel welcomed, learn, grow and have fun at school."

For more information about the Babylon Union Free School District, please visit the District’s website at www.babylon.k12.ny.us. Exciting activities happening throughout the District and programs celebrating student achievement can also be found on the District’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/babylonschooldistrict/ and Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/babylonufsd.