The first day of school in Deer Park was filled with sunshine and smiles as students from prekindergartners to seniors arrived on Aug. 2 to begin a busy new year of learning and friendship in the district’s five buildings.

“Our first day was filled with excitement as JQA welcomed our students back to school,” JQA Principal Chris Molinelli said. “It was so nice to see our hallways and classrooms full of students’ smiles and laughter.”

“Behind every great first day is the tireless effort of our staff, who work year-round to prepare for our students’ success,” High School Principal Charlie Cobb said.

“What an incredible first day back,” May Moore Principal Tammy Alcalde said. “It was a joy to welcome our students, staff and families at May Moore as we began a new school year together. The energy in our classrooms and hallways sets the tone for a year filled with learning, growth and community. Thank you to our dedicated staff and supportive families for helping make today such a successful and positive start.”

Date Added: 9/3/2025

The district has appointed James Henry as the new director of math and business, effective Aug. 11. Henry had served as an associate principal at Robert Frost Middle School since 2018. He previously worked as Deer Park’s curriculum associate for math and business in grades 6-12. Before that, he taught math at Deer Park High School for a dozen years, including algebra pre-calculus and pre-AP calculus, and served as a mentor to new teachers, lead teacher for Algebra Common Core and a member of the model classroom, as well as director of the high school’s winter play and musical, and as a class and National Honor Society adviser.

A Hauppauge resident, Henry earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics from St. Josephs College in Patchogue, his master’s degree in arts and liberal sciences at Stony Brook University, and his school building and school district leadership certificates from the College of Saint Rose.

“I’m truly excited to begin my new role as director of math and business,” Henry said. “My goal is to spark curiosity, build confidence, and help both students and teachers see how what we learn connects to the real world. By encouraging collaboration and fresh ideas, I hope to promote our current programs, and also create new programs that not only support academic growth but also prepare our students for the opportunities and challenges ahead.” 

Date Added: 8/27/2025

Eager students toured their new building for the first time as Deer Park’s Robert Frost Middle School held its annual orientation on Aug. 21. Led by school staff, the incoming sixth graders explored classrooms, lockers and hallways, preparing them for an exciting year ahead.

Date Added: 8/21/2025