In fabulously farcical performances on Nov. 7 and 8, the actors of Deer Park High School demonstrated their skills in this season’s winter play, “Fools.” The Neil Simon play, a romantic comic fable set in Ukraine in the late 1800s, revolves around schoolteacher Leon Tolchinsky, played by Logan Stylianou.

The production was directed by Kristen Wallace, and also starred Hayden Snyder as Sophia Zubritsky, Dante Tinoco as Dr. Zubritsky, Amaiyah Elysee as Lenya Zubritsky, Kerwin Bartholomew as Count Gregor, Sophia Lindsay as Snetsky, Madison Griffin as Slovich, Anabella Lindsay as Mishkin, Kesha Elmon as Yenchna, Zaida Ngqondo as the Magistrate, Baileigh Braithwaite as Olga, Kaylee Puterbaugh as Pavel, Dynella Whyte as Zanya and Emmagrace Zotto as Mishka. Zaida Ngqondo served as the student director, Scott Abrams handled the lighting and Michael DiCarlo was in charge of sound.

Date Added: 11/26/2025

Deer Park High School’s French Department carried on its beloved annual French Dinner tradition on Nov. 15, hosting a Cirque du Soleil-themed celebration inspired by “Ovo.” Students, families and friends gathered for an evening of community, cuisine and creativity, enjoying exceptional homemade dishes and a variety of activities. Guests took part in trivia contests, crafts and circus-themed games throughout the night. The school’s jazz band provided live musical entertainment, adding to the festive atmosphere. The event concluded with awards presented to the creators of the standout Cirque du Soleil–style masks.

“A big thank you to all who attended or supported the event,” teacher Susan Bollag said. “We look forward to seeing you again next year! À l’année prochaine!”

Date Added: 11/24/2025

In a heartwarming display of intergenerational mentorship and community spirit, approximately 20 players from Deer Park High School’s varsity and JV football teams took the field on the evening of Nov. 22 for a friendly, no-contact scrimmage with fourth- and fifth-grade PAL players. They were joined by members of Deer Park’s cheerleading squad and varsity kickline, creating a spirited celebration of teamwork and Falcons pride.

The idea for the event originated with May Moore Primary School secretary Annemarie Dawson and was brought to life through the collaboration of varsity football head coach Cody Ciolino and PAL coaches Kevin Bailey and Larry DeFour.

“We had such a great time, with smiles from beginning to end,” Dawson said. “One of the moms told me she overheard the little guys yelling on the sideline, ‘I want to play, I want to play – let’s get those big guys!’ This was a wonderful community event that I am hoping becomes an annual thing.”

Date Added: 11/24/2025

Deer Park High School’s Patriot Club recently led the districtwide “Red, White & Jeans” and “Hats for Heroes” fundraising initiative, with students and staff across all buildings wearing hats, jeans and patriotic colors to raise awareness and support for veterans facing challenges upon returning home.

This year’s effort was the district’s most successful to date, generating an impressive $1,100, the highest amount Deer Park has ever raised for the cause. All donations are contributed to the GI Go Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans in all aspects of their lives. The Deer Park School District was recognized as the top donor for the organization this year, highlighting the school community’s ongoing dedication to honoring and supporting service members.

Representatives from each building – Lynda Emig from the superintendent’s office, Robert Frost Associate Principal Kevin Quirk, JFK teachers Kristen Alo and Michele Alo, JQA teacher Victoria Mott, May Moore secretary Annemarie Dawson and Assistant School Transportation Supervisor Karen Camodeo – served as liaisons to coordinate collections and spread awareness throughout the district, playing a key role in the overall success of this year’s initiative.

Date Added: 11/20/2025

John Quincy Adams Primary School celebrated World Kindness Day with a schoolwide gathering in which the entire student body came together outside to spell out the word “#KIND.” This gesture reinforced the school’s ongoing commitment to fostering compassion.

“Every morning we remind the students at JQA of our ‘four be’s,’ and one of those be’s is to be kind,” Principal Christopher Molinelli said. “Kindness is a gift that costs nothing, but can mean the world to the person you give it to.”

Date Added: 11/20/2025