On Friday, October 27th, 2006, students at Somers Middle School learned that they had lost thier beloved teacher, Dawn Bowker. This occured during Red Ribbon Week at the school, a week filled with information for kids on the negative effects of using drugs and alcohol.  Only later did students learn that Dawn's death was caused by a young man under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

Students had planned on planting a "red garden" in honor of Red Ribbon Week.  On the morning of October 27th, students decided to make this garden a memorial to their teacher.

On May 3rd, 2007, Dawn's 28th birthday, Dawn's family, students, parents, and staff participated in a dedication of the Red Ribbon Garden.