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Deer Park Public Schools

Home of the Falcons

November 2, 2026

Deer Park HS Senior Honored for Empire Boys State Participation

Four people pose together, with one holding a certificate in a formal setting.

Deer Park High School senior Joel Biju was recently among five local students recognized by Sgt. John Sardiello Post 1634 of the American Legion Family in West Babylon, along with dignitaries from local, county and state government, for participation in the Empire Boys State and American Legion Auxiliary Empire Girls State programs.

Participating students attended weeklong conferences at SUNY Morrisville and SUNY Brockport, where they gained firsthand insight into government by creating a fictional 51st state, running for office, drafting legislation and working to effect positive change within their communities.

Deer Park High School Principal Charles Cobb attended the ceremony to support Biju and congratulate him and his family.

“As an educator and patriot, I am so very proud to be a part of this program,” said Billie Jo Vozza, a Deer Park teaching assistant involved with the American Legion. “Empire Boys State and Empire Girls State are vital to the civic education of our youth, allowing them to gain the knowledge to become productive future members of our society.”