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

The Citizenship Committee at John F. Kennedy Intermediate School proudly hosted its sixth annual Veterans Day Breakfast on Nov. 7, bringing together students and their family members who have served in the U.S. armed forces. The event offered a warm and meaningful opportunity for the school community to honor veterans’ service while fostering connection and patriotism.

Date Added: 11/17/2025

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

Guided by teachers Briana Fayans, Samantha Racano and Ashley Woolsey, art classes at Deer Park’s three elementary schools – John F. Kennedy Intermediate School, John Quincy Adams Primary School and May Moore Primary School – celebrated International Dot Day on Sept. 15. Based on the Peter Reynolds’ book “The Dot,” the annual event promotes a strong, encouraging message about always trying your best, and students and staff dressed in polka dots to get everyone in the Dot Day spirit.

“We like to start the school year with this story because it creates a sense of community and encourages collaboration as we complete schoolwide banners and displays to celebrate,” Fayans said. 

Date Added: 9/23/2025