Congratulations to Robert Frost Middle School seventh grader Jayden Rivers for finishing in first place in the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York’s Concerto and Vocal Competition on Feb. 4. Rivers has earned a $500 award and the chance to perform as a vocal soloist with his MYO ensemble during the 2026-2027 season.  

Date Added: 2/9/2026

Jayden Rivers, a seventh grader at Robert Frost Middle School, was recently named a finalist in Vocal Division I of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York’s Concerto and Vocal Competition. Out of 80 competitors, only 16 finalists were selected to perform at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Cold Spring Harbor on Feb. 4. The winners of the competition, selected by special guest panelists, will earn a $500 award and the chance to perform as a soloist with their MYO ensemble during the 2026-2027 season. This significant achievement serves to highlights the strength of Deer Park’s perennially strong performing arts program.

Rivers is currently in his first year as a vocalist in the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra Suffolk Treble Choir. MYO provided feedback on his application recording, praising his professional presentation, beautiful voice, expressiveness and intonation. For the Concerto and Vocal Competition, he will sing the Italian aria “Alma del Core” by composer Antonio Caldara.
  
“I was surprised, extremely humbled and excited when I learned that I was a finalist in the competition,” Rivers said. “I really want to win, so I am working on my Italian. The Metropolitan Youth Orchestra has some of the most talented young musicians across Long Island. To be a finalist is an honor to me. I would like to thank my parents, my music teachers and the Metropolitan Orchestra for giving me this opportunity, and I hope to see some of my Deer Park friends and teachers at the concert.”

“I am incredibly proud of Jayden and this outstanding accomplishment,” said Grace Donofrio, his vocal teacher. “His voice is truly beautiful, and this recognition reflects his hard work, dedication and natural musicality. Bravo to Jayden on being named a finalist.”

“Being selected from as one of just 16 finalists from more than 80 competitors is a remarkable achievement and a testament to Jayden’s talent, dedication and musical artistry,” Director of Fine and Performing Arts Bradley Murphy said. “This recognition reflects the high level of excellence our students strive for and consistently achieve.”

Additionally, exceptional Deer Park High School student musician Joseph Graziano was named to the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York’s Nassau Principal Orchestra. Graziano will perform on trumpet with the MYO on March 22 at the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center in Garden City, and on May 9 at Carnegie Hall in Manhattan.

“Joe has been a hardworking musician in our program since he arrived at the high school,” Band Director Derek Schmelter said. “I’m very proud of his accomplishments and delighted to see his talents recognized by those outside of our community.” 

Date Added: 1/27/2026

At the district’s Jan. 20 Board of Education meeting, Robert Frost Middle School student Inaaya Khan was recognized for her outstanding leadership and dedication to her school community. Khan is a member of the National Junior Honor Society, a Gold Honor Roll student and a Project Wisdom Student of the Month. 

As a sixth grader, Khan presented Principal Dr. Eliana Levey with the idea of starting a Muslim Student Association modeled after the high school’s club. The following year, she became the founder and president of Robert Frost’s Junior Muslim Student Association.

“As the club's adviser, Dr. Levy has witnessed firsthand Inaaya’s leadership skills among her peers,” Superintendent James Cummings said. “She designs activities for each meeting, coordinates with high school’s MSA and advocates for her fellow students. She is an impressive individual with a bright future ahead, and Dr. Levy and I could not be more proud to recognize her as a student of distinction within the Deer Park School District.”

Date Added: 1/21/2026

The young actors of Deer Park’s Robert Frost Middle School delighted audiences with two terrific performances of the modern Disney classic “Frozen Jr.” in December. The production was directed by Lauren Penta and Lori Sullivan, who praised the cast’s commitment and confidence throughout the rehearsal and performance process.

“It takes more than ice powers to bring Frozen Jr. to life, it takes a cast and crew brave enough to ‘let it go’ and bold enough to make the magic real,” Penta said. “They were all amazing.”

The cast featured Julianna Rubio as Young Anna, Ryleigh Tatarian as Middle Anna and Aleynah Alegre as Anna; Mackenzie Levy as Young Elsa, Ayla Korkmaz as Middle Elsa and Addison Sheehan as Elsa; Jaxon Tweed as King Agnarr and Abigail Heissenbuttel as Queen Iduna; Caleb Castillo as Pabbie and Jillian Wagner as Bulda; Santino Bianco as Hans; Jacob Vargas as Kristoff; Dylan Levy as Sven; Amare Tavarez as Olaf; Paige Gomez as Weselton and Oaken’s Wife; Francisco Ponce as Oaken; Ava Simonetti as Oaken’s Kid; Jamiee Jones as the Bishop; and Paul Noto as the Steward.

Date Added: 12/15/2025