May Moore Primary School’s pre-K teachers welcomed students and their families on Oct. 16 for a festive pumpkin workshop. The event invited everyone to get creative, making pumpkin candleholders using glass jars, colored tissue paper and glue. Excitement filled the classrooms as the students proudly designed their glowing creations alongside parents and caregivers. Each family left with a picture-perfect fall craft to take home.  

Date Added: 10/21/2025

Proudly wearing the school colors of white, grey, and maroon, the entire Deer Park school community came together on the sunny morning of Oct. 18 for a joyful homecoming parade, marching from John F. Kennedy Intermediate School to Deer Park High School. Serving as grand marshal was longtime Deer Park resident and district custodian Tony Santoro, a proud member of the Deer Park High School Class of 1977 and dedicated Deer Park Fire Department.

Once everyone gathered at Al Centamore Football Field Football Field for the pregame ceremony, Student Council President Ava Bush led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by “The Star-Spangled Banner” sung by the Phoenix Club. The celebration continued with recognition of the 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees, and County Legislator Tom Donnelly presented Santoro with a special commendation.

“Tony lives his life as a great example of what it means to be a valued community member,” Board of Education President Donna Marie Elliott said. “For all that you do, Tony, here at Deer Park High School, for all the happiness you bring to our beautiful town, and especially for what you mean to Deer Park and all of us, we celebrate and honor you today.”

The crowd was then treated to energetic performances by the Robert Frost Middle School and varsity kickline teams, as well as the PAL, Frost, JV, and varsity cheerleaders. Adding a royal highlight to the ceremony, Kerwin Bartholomew and Alexis Borowski were crowned homecoming king and queen and took their ceremonial ride around the track as the Phoenix Club performed the school’s alma mater. Members of the homecoming court included Ilayda Avcu, Pearse Boylan, Heidy Gonzalez Morales, Thomas Luscardi, Jaheim McCallum and Mischa Rose.

While awaiting the big game kickoff, the Student Council hosted a festive Fall Festival behind the stands, featuring pumpkin decorating, face painting with the Art Club, and a food drive to support local families.

Deer Park’s Falcons came out fast and furious, with wide receiver/defensive back Christian Myrick returning a 71-yard punt for the game’s first touchdown. Myrick added two more exciting TDs before the second quarter ended, but Newfield’s Wolverines ultimately prevailed, 42-21. 

At halftime, the Marching Falcons electrified the crowd with a rousing performance, and the winners of the high school’s float contest were announced – the seniors captured first place, followed by the juniors in second, sophomores in third and freshmen in fourth.

Date Added: 10/21/2025

Deer Park High School’s 2025 pep rally on Oct. 17 was a spirited celebration of school pride, energizing students and staff for the following day’s homecoming festivities. The event began in the cafeteria with photo ops for the school’s athletic squads, and continued onto the football field, where excitement filled the stands as each team made its entrance to cheers from the crowd. Performances by the Phoenix Club vocal ensemble, Marching Falcons band, kickline, and varsity and JV cheerleaders – as well as the amusing antics of the Falcon mascot – added to the festive atmosphere and showcased true school spirit.

Date Added: 10/20/2025

Second grade classes at JQA recently enjoyed a special visit from Dwight, a friendly and talented service dog from Canine Companions. Students learned about the extensive training that service dogs undergo and the important work their handlers do to prepare them for helping people in need. Dwight showed off some of his impressive skills, and the second graders even had the chance to try out a few tricks with him. 

Date Added: 10/20/2025

Deer Park High School recently honored the September Students of the Month: Matthew Schabe was named Scholar of the Month and Xavier Kelly was named Citizen of the Month.  

“Xavier joined our school community this year and immediately made a positive impact," his nominating teacher said. "He’s the first one here every morning, always greeting staff with a big smile and engaging conversation. From the start, he sought out ways to get involved, joining multiple clubs and connecting with his peers. On one occasion, he was asked to attend a senior presentation during class. Xavier took the initiative to inform both teachers and even completed his quiz before the school day began so he could meet all his responsibilities. His positivity and dedication bring an uplifting energy to our mornings.”

“Matthew consistently demonstrates exemplary participation and maturity in Italian class," his nominating teacher said. "He is a respectful and positive student who approaches every assignment with focus and effort. During study hall, he works diligently on his coursework and sets a strong example for his classmates. His enthusiasm for learning and his commitment to doing his best make him a true role model. Matthew’s reliability, kindness and academic drive reflect what it means to be an outstanding scholar.” 

"Congratulations, Xavier and Matthew, for embodying the qualities of leadership, respect and excellence that make our school community so proud," Associate Principal for Guidance and Support Services Dr. Dina Pannone said.  

Date Added: 10/16/2025