The district has hired Jay Murphy as its new district administrator for instructional technology, replacing Chris Kauter. Murphy had served as the integration specialist for educational technology in the North Babylon School District for the past two years. He also was the coordinator of the North Babylon Alternative High School and previously taught social studies for 17 years at North Babylon High School.

The Commack resident earned his bachelor’s degree in history and political science as well as his masters’ degree in social studies education from SUNY Albany. He obtained his advanced certificate in educational leadership and administration from Long Island University. 

“I look forward to collaborating with the Deer Park community to thoughtfully integrate technology into every classroom while cultivating safe learning spaces, where instruction can be differentiated to meet the needs of every student,” Murphy said. “My goal is to seamlessly connect students and staff with valuable digital resources to ensure that every child can achieve their full potential.”

The high school’s jazz ensemble and pops orchestra were recently selected to play at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio as part of the Hall’s Rock Star Program. The student-musicians, accompanied by band director Jerry Cannarozzo and orchestra director Kathy Attard, toured the Hall in the morning and performed in the afternoon.

“Both of our groups were well received and we were invited back to perform in the future,” said Cannarozzo.

Andrea Carone, who teaches seventh and eighth grade science at Robert Frost, was one of just five teachers recently recognized by NBC Learn as educators whose dedication to their students and their communities is truly inspiring.

“I am honored to be recognized,” said Carone, who has taught for more than two decades. “The way that I can go above and beyond in and out of the classroom here at Deer Park is because all of the administrators, teachers and staff go above and beyond for me, to make my job more effective.”

“Ms. Carone’s lessons are not confined to her classroom,” said school psychologist Iris Marchon, who nominated Carone for the recognition. “She’s a model for her entire community of what it means to truly support and uplift one another. She gives her own time and money to support students, staff and families in need, including those impacted by death, fire, displacement or illness. For her middle schoolers, she’s a deeply kind, caring and innovative teacher. For all of us, Ms. Carone is an example of how to lead a life filled with love, joy and generosity, changing the world wherever she goes.”

Students at May Moore recently participated in a communication contest run by the school’s speech teachers. Students were asked to draw and write about their favorite ways to communicate. One winner was chosen from each class, with each receiving a special certificate and sharing in an ice cream party celebration.  

At the Board of Education’s annual reorganization meeting on July 9, Donna Marie Elliott was elected as the new president. She had previously served as the board’s longtime vice president. John Gouskos, the former president, was elected as vice president. Both were sworn into office along with trustee Kristine Rosales, new trustee Jerry D. Jean-Pierre and new Superintendent James Cummings.

Melding remembrance of proud milestones and reflection on future choices and journeys, the Deer Park High School Class of 2019 celebrated the school’s 56th commencement on June 28.

As in years past, the Roisin Dubh Pipe Band led the seniors into the stadium, while an ensemble consisting of the ninth grade and symphonic bands, directed by Jerry Cannarozzo, played “Pomp and Circumstance.”

Valedictorian and Student Council President Katherine Cho led the Pledge of Allegiance, Alexandria Costanza sang the national anthem, a choral group of 27 students sang the school’s alma mater, and alumna and Class of 2009 valedictorian Ekta Patel greeted the seniors.

“When we first entered high school, we were told it was going to be the best but quickest four years of our lives, and it was,” Senior Class President Ryan Hegney said in his address. “But it was the most important. It felt like yesterday that we were waving to our parents at our bus stops, and now we realize how suddenly all these years of school have flown by.”

Salutatorian Eiman Nawaz urged her classmates to be openminded and empathize with others.

“There will always be a chance to meet someone who could be your next friend, mentor or love,” Nawaz said. “A lot can be changed if you just listen to other people. It’s a work in progress and it’s going to take a lot of time to achieve that, but we’re not trying to win a prize, it’s just bettering ourselves. The simplest way to do that is just grow, listen to other people and have your voice be heard. There’s 7.53 billion people in this world. If even a couple of us did that, it would make a difference.”

In her speech as valedictorian, Cho said, “We are at an age where we can make our own choices. We are old enough to have opinions and the passion to take matters into our own hands. It’s not important to be right, it’s only important to be true to yourself and your moral compass. However, we are young enough that if we make mistakes, so be it. We have the time to turn and try again. After all, that’s the beauty of our generation. While others are stumbling in the dark, we are the ones to illuminate the candle and point them towards the light. What you choose to do with this power to lead, where you to choose to lead to, and how you choose to lead defines you and is what you are ultimately accountable for.”

“I’m already looking forward to the day we all cross paths again,” Cho said in closing. “Until then, please stay happy and healthy. Everyone has worked hard in their own way, and our reward is this singular moment.”

In a final graduation speech as superintendent of schools, Eva Demyen said to the seniors, “It is an important milestone in our lives, leaving Deer Park Schools – you as graduates and me as a retiring superintendent. This is just like ‘Avengers: Endgame,’ the end of a fabulous journey, but what a myriad of possibilities to come in the future.”

Demyen went on to quote several lines from the Marvel superhero film that reflected pertinent values and insights, before telling the graduates, “I wish you all the happiness, love and success that is possibly possible.”

The seniors also heard from alumnus Paul Becker, a retired naval rear admiral and member of the Class of 1979.

“While there’s 40 years between my class and yours, please know that when I wore the cloth of my country – either afloat in the Pacific or in the deserts of the Middle East – it was alongside teenagers right out of high schools like this,” Becker said to the seniors. “That’s why I have some relevant advice as you begin your adult journey. Up to this point of your lives, most of you have measured success by being able to fit in, but from here on out, you’ll start measuring success by being able to stand out.”

Demonstrating a shared sense of pride, Principal Charles Cobb shared a long list of remarkable student achievements, accomplishments and charitable works before presenting the administration and Board of Education with the graduating class of 2019.

Once diplomas were conferred, the new graduates turned their tassels, tossed their caps, and walked out of the football field to the traditional strains of Elmer Bernstein’s “The Great Escape.”

 

For the 306 eighth graders of Robert Frost, the June 24 moving up event was a chance to reflect on the conclusion of one educational step, to receive awards and certificates, and to get ready for the new challenge of high school.

National Junior Honor Society Vice President Emily Franciscovich led the Pledge of Allegiance to start the ceremony, followed by addresses from Principal Eliana Levey, Student Council President Kayley Eising and Deer Park High School Charles Cobb.

“As we sit here today, many of us are anxious to finally be on summer break, while others of us have mixed feelings about moving up to high school,” Eising said in her speech. “Our days as middle schoolers are coming to an end, and we will finally be in high school. I feel confident in saying we are all prepared for whatever obstacles we will face in high school. We will be facing new experiences and challenges. We will inevitably be faced with peer pressure at some point, but in these moments, we must remember to be ourselves and not followers.”

In preparation for attending Robert Frost in the fall, the 335 fifth graders of JFK celebrated with a moving up ceremony on June 21. The ceremony marked a farewell to retiring principal Susan Bonner, a longtime fixture and acclaimed leader of the school.

The event kicked off with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Alexis Borowski and Addison Costanza, followed by the entire class performing the National Anthem, directed by Kristen Lombardo.

Touching on happy memories, speeches followed by Bonner, fifth-grade Student Government President Pasquale DeGregorio, fifth-grade Student Government Vice President Adison Patrick and Robert Frost Principal Eliana Levey. The new graduates sang “High Hopes” to symbolize their excitement at the new challenge of sixth grade.

 

Continuing last year’s new tradition, seniors visited their respective primary school buildings on June 24 for the second annual senior walk. The members of the Class of 2019 paraded down the halls, discussed their college and career plans, and enjoyed an interactive talk with second graders.

 

Deer Park’s youngest graduates – 132 second graders from JQA and 119 from May Moore – celebrated their ascension to JFK in a proud pair of sunny moving up ceremonies.

JQA’s event on June 13 featured the students singing “Well, It’s Been Fun,” “A Million Dreams” and “Best Day of My Life.” May Moore’s moving up a day later included a rendition of the school song as well as “America” and a medley of tunes from “The Greatest Showman.”

The May Moore ceremony marked an emotional farewell to Principal Alicia Konecny, who was also moving up to be the district’s new its assistant superintendent for pupil personnel services. Both ceremonies paid tribute to retiring Superintendent Eva Demyen and featured a welcome address from the next principal of JFK, Kelly Benson.

“The moving up ceremony is one of my favorite events of the year, met with plenty of emotions,” said JQA Principal Christopher Molinelli. “Watching these young boys and girls grow and blossom over the past three or four years is quite amazing. Everyone couldn’t be prouder of our graduates and we will miss them all. We’re looking forward to hearing about all of the great things they will do in their future.”

  

 

At Deer Park’s June 18 Board of Education meeting, the district honored numerous impressive student achievements and said farewell to longtime Superintendent Eva Demyen, who is retiring.

The evening began with a performance of a song by Robert Frost students from Rachel Burkel and Stephanie O’Connell’s classes and the Friends of Frost Social Club, which was dedicated to Demyen, along with the screening of a film on Frost’s BandAid Project and the presentation of a certificate to Frost student Stephanie Sheeler.

Next up was recognition of JFK’s Math Olympiad winners by adviser Lisa Baker. The 21 students honored were Danny Alvarado-Valle, Vincent Cacciola, Arianna Chowdhury, Emily Dong, Katherine Flores, Adam Hassanin, Adan Herrera, Ethan Nelson, Cristian Miller, Gianna Montes, Nobin Nath, Dave Osorio Lara, Mollie Pellicano, Frankie Pisano, Jaidyn Schabe, Jayna Singh, Allessandra Tejero, Arib Uddin, Hailey Weisse, Eshan Zaman and Ali Zorakhsh.

Ashley Rosenberg, the district administrator for ENL and world languages, then presented the winners of the 2019 Grand Concours National French Contest, an annual competition sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of French. Middle school honorees included bronze medalist Anabelle Thelisma and honorable mention winners Emily Kleiber, Alexis Lazarte, Eadie Liu, Adithan Omprakash, Ayesha Shaukat and Anthony Vasquez; while high school honorees were gold medalist Saima Hoque, silver medalists Victoria Egan and Bartlett Polster, bronze medalists Kristin D’Souza, Sameer Riaz, Naomi Sauveur and Diondra Talleyrand, and honorable mention winners Rebecca Fox and Esteysy Yanes Amaya.  

Business-minded high schoolers participating in the DECA club were then presented with certificates by adviser Gregory Menig.

Closing out the evening and the moving tribute to Demyen’s remarkable career, Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer presented her with a proclamation presentation.

The Falcon Friends Club at JFK hosted a buddy bench dedication ceremony on June 19, joined by administration, staff, parents, Board of Education members and representatives of club sponsor Realty Direct NY.

Falcon Friends, a new club at JFK, was guided by two co-advisers, art teacher Briana Nussbaum and special education teacher Joseph Verdicchio. The organization’s goal is to bring students of differing abilities together to build friendships and appreciate each other’s differences. Over the course of the year, students were able to collaborate, problem solve and build meaningful friendships. Members of Falcon Friends worked hard on designing and painting the bench during club time.

During the ceremony, fourth grader Glenn Calautti and fifth grader Mackenzie Rubinstein unveiled the bench. Following the reveal, fourth graders Nadia Elsergany and Gina Garcia spoke about the purpose of the bench and how it will help students to make new friends at JFK.

“The Falcon Friends Club built friendships and relationships as we worked toward a common goal of constructing our buddy bench,” Verdicchio said. “I am honored to see the teamwork and effort that was shown throughout the project.”

“It was such a privilege to work with these students,” said Nussbaum. “Their empathy and compassion towards one another is so admirable. I am proud of their hard work.”

The district hired Garret Noblett as an associate principal for Deer Park High School.

Noblett had recently worked as a special education teacher at Walt Whitman High School in Huntington Station for the past seven years. He was also the alternative high school principal at Whitman for the past two years, as well as a principal for the Western Suffolk BOCES Regional Summer School for the past three years. Noblett’s prior positions also include a social studies/special education teacher at Deer Park High School, Robert Frost Middle School and Abraham Lincoln Alternative High School from 2007-2012, and a social studies teacher at Rocky Point High School during 2006-2007.

The Kings Park resident earned his bachelor’s degree in history and sociology from Stony Brook University, his master’s degree in secondary social studies education and middle school extension certificate from Hofstra University, an advanced certificate in special education from Dowling College, and school building/school district educational leadership certificates from Stony Brook University.

“As a graduate of Deer Park High School, I am very excited to come home to my alma mater and serve the community that has given me so much joy in my life,” Noblett said. “My goal as an associate principal is to foster a safe and successful learning environment for both students and staff while working towards district educational standards and goals.”

High school seniors Warren Millien and Steve Petit were awarded $1,000 scholarships by the Chi Rho Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity at the organization’s 10th annual Pride of Fatherhood Breakfast, held at the Radisson Hotel in Hauppauge on June 15. Millien and Petit earned their awards via an essay contest in which they discussed their community service and future plans.

The high school recognized the achievements of its best and brightest on June 6, handing out numerous scholarships, department awards and schoolwide awards at the annual Senior Awards night as proud families looked on.

Student Council President Katherine Cho began the ceremony with the Pledge of Allegiance, before Jada Smith led the attendees in singing “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The school’s jazz ensemble, directed by Jerry Cannarozzo, provided tasteful music before and during the event, including Steely Dan’s “Peg” and John LaBarbera’s “Tiger of San Pedro.”

“This is truly one of the special evenings for us here at the high school,” said Principal Charles Cobb. “Our students here are being recognized for their vast accomplishments, not only this year, but through their many years in the Deer Park school system.”

“Each and every one of us in this auditorium has been incredibly impressed by each and every one of you on the stage tonight, and I know all of us cannot wait to see what you do next,” said Associate Principal Sean O’Brien. “Please take this evening as an opportunity to celebrate the miles you put behind you as you prepare for the miles that lie ahead.”

The district has named Jack Bixhorn as an associate principal for Robert Frost, replacing Philip Paniccia, the incoming principal of May Moore.

Bixhorn’s nine years of classroom experience most recently included working as a sixth grade math and science teacher and elementary math specialist in the East Rockaway School District. He previously taught algebra and grades 6-8 special education at the Dr. Richard Izquierdo Health and Science Charter School in the Bronx.

A resident of Long Beach, he earned his bachelor’s degree in health science from the University of Delaware and a dual master’s degree in elementary education and special education as well as a middle school math extension certificate from St. John’s University. He recently completed a postgraduate program in school building and districtl through the College of Saint Rose.  

“I am excited to join the Deer Park school community,” said Bixhorn. “My goal as the associate principal of Robert Frost is to cultivate a safe, caring and supportive learning environment that promotes success for all students.”

At JQA, the annual Math Fair on May 22 found students participating in a variety of different learning centers ranging from basic skills to mathematics in daily life. Based on the school’s math curriculum, these activities help to reinforce what was learned throughout the year.

“Our goal is to foster positive learning experiences in order for the students to develop a love of math,” said JQA math lab specialist Marianna Grieco.

Joelle Porush, a retail registered dietitian at the local ShopRite, recently visited with Deer Park secondary students – including seventh grade family and consumer science classes, life skills students and high school food and nutrition classes – to discuss the importance of eating healthy, how nutrition effects our bodies, how to examine the different nutrients listed on a nutrition facts label, and how to create a simple, healthy five-ingredient meal.

“We had a great time, and the students showed a lot of interest in nutrition,” said Porush.

“Joelle provided our students the opportunity to deepen their knowledge of nutrition through hands-on experiences,” said teacher Gabriella Gilmartin. “She is a fantastic resource for the Deer Park community.”

Robert Frost track athletes recently brought home three gold, one silver and two bronze medals at the Elks Invitational track meet. These outstanding students included Evan Attrino, winner of the gold medal in the 1,500-meter race; Ebony Coleman, winner of the gold medal in the 100-meter and 55-meter races; Lutherson Chauvette, winner of the silver medal in the 400-meter race; Santos Barahona, winner of the bronze medal in shot put; and Natalia Lee, winner of the bronze medal in the 400-meter race.

The high school honored exceptional athletic efforts by varsity teams on spring sports awards night, held on May 30 at the high school’s auditorium. Members of the baseball, girls golf, kickline, boys lacrosse, girls lacrosse, softball, boys tennis, boys spring track and girls spring track, teams were lauded, receiving certificates and plaques including Most Valuable Player awards, Coaches Awards, Spirit Awards and Scholar-Athlete awards.

“Without our coaches and athletes putting in the commitment and hard work that they do, we wouldn’t have a fighting chance at being successful,” said Athletic Director Dominick Fontana. “We thank them for all the sacrifices they made.”

Fontana also expressed gratitude to the Board of Education, administration and parents for their continued support as well as the Booster Club for sponsoring both the event and scholarships.

The district has named Philip Paniccia as the new principal of May Moore Primary School, replacing Alicia Konecny, the incoming assistant superintendent for pupil personnel services.

Paniccia had served since 2016 as an associate principal at the district’s Robert Frost Middle School. He previously worked as a teacher for 10 years in the Sayville School District and as principal of Sayville Summer School, following a 15-year career in financial service.

A Setauket resident and graduate of Sachem High School, Paniccia earned his bachelor’s degree in child study, master’s degree in liberal studies and advance graduate degree in educational leadership from St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue and Stony Brook University.

“I couldn’t be more excited to become the new principal of May Moore and to continue serving the Deer Park community,” said Paniccia. “I look forward to working collaboratively with the entire school community to emphasize a safe, warm, whole child learning environment in which every student is recognized as a unique learner who can excel and succeed. While preserving May Moore’s tradition of excellence, we will continue to work with Deer Park’s youngest learners to build the 21st century and social-emotional skills needed to thrive as leaders and productive citizens of tomorrow.”

The high school’s Class of 2019 valedictorian and salutatorian are Katherine Cho and Eiman Nawaz, respectively.

Cho, who earned a 105.86 weighted GPA, is a member of the school’s National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society, Newspaper Club, student council and varsity tennis team. She will attend Princeton University, majoring in biology.

Nawaz, who finished with a weighted GPA of 105.26, is a member of the school’s National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Red Cross Club and DECA. She will attend Stony Brook University, majoring in biochemistry.

Deer Park’s May 28 Board of Education meeting was dedicated to recognizing and rewarding personnel, including newly retired, tenured and appointed administrators, teachers and staff. Also honored were those reaching milestones in years of service.

Superintendent Eva Demyen began the evening with recognition for school physician Anthony Donatelli, who was recently inducted into the Wrestling Hall of Fame, and JFK cafeteria aide Shalay Rutherford, who saved a student from choking by using the Heimlich maneuver. 

Those retiring included both Demyen herself, who was lauded by incoming Superintendent James Cummings, and JFK Principal Susan Bonner. Other new retirees congratulated included teachers John Abeltin, Francis Amendola, Paula Behrens, Cheryl Bica, Debra Bradbury, Aida Buckley, Eve Deitch, Cindy Jewell, Patricia Kurman, Jean Ludlow, Iris Marchon and Joanne Pendzinski; and non-instructional employees Rosalyn Baskin, Ann Castagna, Patricia Collins, Mary Galea, Richard Miller, Pearl Rogers and Philip Russo.

“They’ve honed the skills of thousands of students,” said Demyen. “I couldn’t be prouder to be retiring at the same time as such a fine group of people.”

Recognized for their years of service were Robert Frost teaching assistant Phyllis Otto for 35 years; Jack Lovascio and Laurie Schwartz for 30 years; and Laurie Blank, Ann Bullis, Gary Fricke, Steven Jaklitsch, Deana LaPlaca, Krista Militello, Joseph Orecchio and Rosanna Shooshtary for 25 years.

“It takes a lot to devote so much time and energy to one place and one job and I commend them highly for that,” said Demyen.

Congratulated for receiving tenure were ESL teachers Joseph Buscarino and Lisa Kiernan and guidance counselor Rachel Glaubach of Deer Park High School; art teacher Michelle Sarco of Robert Frost; ESL teacher Kimberly Essig and elementary teacher Luisa Moynihan of JFK; and special education teacher Alannah Boccard and teaching assistants Erebuni Babakhanian-Gonzalez, Danielle Calandra and Jennifer Paduano of May Moore.

“It’s no easy task getting to this point, so I want to congratulate every single one of you receiving tenure,” Demyen told the proud educators.

New appointments included Jay Murphy as district administrator of technology, Philip Paniccia as principal of May Moore and Jack Bixhorn as associate principal of Robert Frost.

The night ended with a welcome to incoming Board of Education trustee Jerry D. Jean-Pierre.

Calling themselves the “Peacekeepers,” members of the World of Difference Club at Robert Frost volunteered to plan and plant a courtyard peace garden. The club worked with two other groups, the Site-Based Team and Friends of Frost, to create this special space. The garden was sponsored by the Horodnicki family in memory of their son Ryan.

“The Peace Garden is a symbol of the diversity among our school community,” said speech-language pathologist and club adviser Stephanie O’Connell. “At Robert Frost, we cultivate an environment of acceptance and celebration of all people. No matter your race, religion, nationality, intellectual ability or identity, you are welcome here.”

Following the garden’s creation on May 21, Frost’s World of Difference Club received recognition for its second year of achieving the Anti-Defamation League’s “No Place for Hate” school designation. Participating schools conduct activities and events that maintain an inclusive and respectful climate. Eighth grade student ambassadors from the club traveled to New York University on May 23 to receive a banner and certificate for this honor.

 

The high school's business students competed in Northwell Health System’s Spark! Challenge this spring, held at the Crest Hollow Country Club.

Earlier in the year, the students spent a day shadowing accountants in Northwell’s corporate finance office to learn about accounting careers. They were then challenged with creating a poster to advertise a career in accounting while tying the poster’s message in to Northwell’s “CARE” mission, which stands for connectedness, awareness, respect, and empathy. The students had to create a presentation that highlighted what they learned during their job-shadowing experience at Northwell, which also had to relate to the poster that they had created about the CARE mission. Finally, the Deer Park students made a presentation to Northwell executives, including the CEO and CFO, under the watchful eye of the finance department’s management team.

“This was an outstanding experience for our students to be able to work with industry professionals and present to high-level executives,” said business teacher Jill Perry-Eising.

Marvelous music was in the air on May 22 and 23 as the high school hosted its annual spring concert series, showcasing a year’s worth of hard work and accomplishment for the school’s student-musicians.

 

In its seventh year of holding the Pennies for Patients event for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, JQA raised $2833.32 to benefit the charity, $800 more than the school’s previous yearly total.

“We are so excited to partner with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society each year to help those affected by these diseases,” said Principal Christopher Molinelli.

A classroom at May Moore was the recent scene of a special visit from three members of the Amani Childrens Choir from Kampala, Uganda – ninth grader Angel May Nakafero, sixth grader Hussinah Nanteza and fourth-grader Denise Umotoniwase – accompanied by chaperone Stella Asio.

After a slide presentation and video, the visitors took questions from the class, discussing such topics as favorite places in the U.S. that they have visited and what languages they speak. To conclude the presentation, the Ugandan students – who were hosted by Debbie Sellers, the grandmother of one of the students in the class – treated the May Moore students to vibrant performances of traditional dances and songs.

In celebration of French culture and language, Robert Frost hosted its 19th annual French Dinner on May 2. This year’s theme, chosen by the students themselves, was “Beauty and the Beast.”

The dinner was planned by Frost’s middle school students and their teachers, Susan Bollag and Kimberly Gallipoli. French students from Deer Park High School also attended to help set up the event. In addition to serving delicious French cuisine, students performed music, played games and asked French trivia questions.

“This event become such an important night in our French students’ culture,” said Ashley Rosenberg, Deer Park’s district administrator for ENL and world languages.

Ashley DeAcetis, a second grade teacher at John Quincy Adams, was recently honored by Suffolk ASSET with the Bright Light Award for her work as an Edtech mentor. She was recognized at the annual ASSET luncheon at Timber Point Country Club in Great River.

DeAcetis is in her second year in the district. She previously spent three years teaching in Malaysia at the International School of Kuala Lumpur and four years teaching at the American School of Guatemala.

Deer Park initiated its Edtech mentorship program this year, with teachers chosen from each building to help guide and initiate new ways to integrate technology thoughtfully into the curriculum. DeAcetis was the first selected from JQA.

“I was excited about the opportunity to be more involved in my building and to spend time helping teachers with whatever they needed,” she said. “Working with colleagues that were not afraid to try something new and a supportive administration really helped the mentorship take flight.”

In December, working with the nonprofit organization Code.org, DeAcetis proposed a challenge to the faculty, asking every classroom to participate in the international Hour of Code.

“Without any formal training, our faculty took on this challenge and with almost 100% participation from all classrooms, unlocked the world of coding for their students,” DeAcetis said. “I was truly amazed to see teachers and students learning side-by-side and challenging themselves as they problem-solved using this new type of technology, many for the first time. Productive struggle, critical thinking, and collaboration just happened naturally as students attempted different levels of challenges. I provided coding options to meet the needs for our young learners, making sure that reading directions would not be an obstacle. Technology is ever changing, and our students at JQA, all under the age of 8, may be heading into career paths that we cannot yet imagine. When we take time to create learning experiences for our students, that’s when they make connections and truly develop the 21 century learning skills they are needed to be successful.”

For the eighth consecutive year, John Quincy Adams participated in the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Math-A-Thon, raising more than $2,500 through solving problems in Math-A-Thon Funbooks. Over the past seven years, JQA has donated more than $50,000 to the hospital.

“We are proud and happy to help children and their families at St. Jude,” said math lab specialist Marianna Grieco, the event’s coordinator.

The district’s annual STE@M Expo, held at the high school on the night of May 21, featured an exciting exhibition of student-created works and events from Deer Park’s science, technology, engineering, arts and math programs. Families visiting to vote on the budget enjoyed a variety of displays from live string music and theater to science fair projects, dragster races and art displays.