Deer Park High School celebrated 19 outstanding students at its annual Breakfast for Champions on Oct. 29, honoring those who exemplify the very best of the school community. Students, families, teachers and administrators gathered in the high school’s library for a morning recognizing students who have consistently strived to do their personal best, highlighting a diverse range of achievements from character and academic excellence to leadership, creativity, resilience, compassion and citizenship.

Honorees were recognized across 17 school department categories as well as principal’s and teacher’s awards: athletics (Alyssa Wise), business (Manaal Irfan), English Language Arts/Library (Ryan Hughes), English as a new language (Juairiah Tayaba), family and consumer science (David Tran), fine arts (Reanissa Norton), guidance (Kayla Cruz), health (Thomas Iovine), math/computer science (Caiden Boltz), performing arts (Jack Hayden), physical education (Sean Donovan), science (Breana Troiano), social studies (Lauren Marable), technology (Meagan Sinclair) and world languages (Liliana Morales), as well as the Principal’s Award (Caleb Pierre) and Teacher’s Award (Glenn Calautti).

“This wonderful annual celebration really recognizes the best part of students,” Principal Charlie Cobb said. “There's a multitude of reasons we are acknowledging them. This is not just about an academic achievement or earning a score on a certain test, these awards are about our students being outstanding young individuals, and we want to congratulate all of them.”  

The uplifting morning included a performance by the talented string quintet of Payton Barr (cello), Emily Dong (violin), Amaiyah Elysee (viola), Maxwell Ferguson (cello) and Ryan Lin (violin), adding a special touch to this cherished fall tradition.

Date Added: 11/13/2025

The Deer Park High School Chamber Orchestra was proud to represent the school and community at the Tanger Outlets Deer Park’s annual Jingle Bell Bash and tree lighting ceremony on Nov. 8.

“Events like this remind us how music connects people and strengthens our community,” music teacher Julia Ingemi said. “Performing in public spaces gives our students the chance to see how their work in the classroom extends beyond school walls; it brings people together and adds meaning to shared experiences. We’re grateful for opportunities like this that highlight the importance of music education and the role the arts play in community life. Thank you to Tanger for having us.”

Date Added: 11/13/2025

Guided by advisers Marissa Caruso and Karen Haar, Deer Park High School’s Students Against Destructive Decisions Club recently took a powerful stand for healthy living during Red Ribbon Week, a national campaign dedicated to promoting drug-free lifestyles. 

Throughout the week, club members invited students to sign a “Pledge Wall” as a promise to remain drug free and make positive choices. In addition, students throughout the high school were encouraged to write down healthy alternatives to drug use, which the SADD Club linked together to form a vibrant “Chain of Healthy Choices.” Both displays served as inspiring visual reminders of Deer Park’s commitment to wellness and a supportive school community. SADD members also distributed informational materials and engaging activities to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.

“Our club members’ efforts sparked important conversations among students and encouraged everyone to reflect on the importance of making safe and healthy choices,” Har said. “SADD is proud to represent Deer Park High School in leading the way to foster a culture of positivity and respect.”

Date Added: 11/12/2025

While Deer Park High School High School administered the PSAT on Oct. 30, the school’s physical education staff organized a series of cooperative team-building activities for freshman students. Three 45-minute sessions were held throughout the day, with approximately 100 students participating in each, promoting collaboration, communication and school spirit.

Date Added: 11/7/2025

Deer Park High School hosted a mini on-site Admissions Decision Day on Oct. 30, giving students the exciting opportunity to meet one-on-one with admissions representatives from eight colleges and universities. During the event, students who had submitted their applications received immediate admissions decisions, and many were accepted on the spot. In total, students earned over $101,000 in scholarship offers. Those still completing applications received individualized support from college and career staff as well as admissions representatives. 

“This event was a wonderful celebration of our students’ hard work and bright futures ahead,” school counselor Kristen Kraus said.

Date Added: 11/7/2025