Deer Park High School student-athletes Kasumi Dennis, Max Ferguson, Taylor Gabel, Joe Geosits, Samantha Lent and Madison Picciocchi, accompanied by Varsity Leaders Club adviser Brian Tower, represented the school at the recent Section XI Student-Athlete Leadership Conference. The event brought together student-athletes from high schools across Suffolk County for a day centered on leadership development, personal growth and responsibility, both on and off the field. 

Throughout the conference, participants gained valuable insight into what it means to be an effective leader within a team and school community. Sessions also provided information on college athletics, the recruiting process and the commitment required to compete at the next level. Guest speakers included former and current professional athletes, college coaches, athletic directors, sports psychologists and a former Navy SEAL, all of whom shared impactful experiences and perspectives. A strong emphasis was placed on student-athlete mental health, highlighting the importance of balance, resilience and building strong support systems.
 
“We are proud of these student-athletes for representing our school with integrity and for continuing to develop as leaders within both the athletic program and the school community,” Tower said. 

Date Added: 1/7/2026

 In December, Andrea D’Orazio's AP Research students at Deer Park High School took an important step in their yearlong research projects by presenting to the district’s Institutional Review Board. During these presentations, students explained their research questions, identified gaps in existing studies, outlined their methodology and detailed how they plan to conduct ethical research. The IRB process mirrors what researchers experience at the college and professional levels, requiring students to justify their justify their research gaps and the design of their studies, and demonstrate how they will protect participant privacy and ensure safety during their experiments.

In addition, students formally submitted their Inquiry Proposal Forms for approval so they may begin data collection after winter break.

“Our AP Research students demonstrated professionalism and an understanding of what research ethics entails,” Director of Science and Technology Alison Branca said. “We are so proud of their clear preparation and the wonderful job they are doing as they engage in authentic, college-level academic research practices.

Date Added: 1/5/2026

Deer Park High School’s band and chorus had a busy day on Dec. 23, traveling throughout the district to perform beloved holiday tunes for appreciative audiences at the district office, high school, middle school, JFK, JQA and May Moore. The setlist included traditional favorites as “Silent Night,” “Hark the Herald Angels,” “Jingle Bells,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.”

Date Added: 12/23/2025

John F. Kennedy Intermediate School held its annual holiday sing-a-long on Dec. 22, led by the school’s talented music department. The event featured Kristen Lombardo on vocals, Jake Cosentino on violin, Greg Gullotti on guitar, Eric Gottesman on bass, and special guest middle school music teacher William Green on drums. Students and staff filled the gym, singing holiday favorites and celebrating the season together.

“This has become one of our favorite days of the year," Lombardo said. The energy in the room is palpable and the holiday spirit is tremendous. It’s also a chance for the music department to showcase their talents and have so much fun with the school community. What a great way to bring 2025 to a close!"

Date Added: 12/23/2025