Powerlifter and motivational speaker Rohan Murphy visited the students of Deer Park’s Robert Frost Middle School on Feb. 27 to deliver an uplifting and dynamic program meant to inspire students to never give up and to follow their dreams.

Murphy, who had both of his legs amputated due to complications stemming from birth, became a U.S. paralympian and wrestled for the prestigious Division 1 team at Penn State University. A Long Island native who graduated from East Islip High School, he is dedicated to visiting students and presenting his message of hope and determination.

At the conclusion of the day, Murphy hosted a special wrestling practice with the Robert Frost team, led by coach Jeff Cifelli. Murphy discussed how he found success in the sport of wrestling, both mentally and physically, and the students were able to watch and then perform wrestling moves he demonstrated. As a gift, the team presented Murphy with a Falcons wrestling T-shirt and concluded the event with the team’s “Falcon, Family” chant.

Date Added: 3/10/2025

Deer Park High School recently honored the February Students of the Month: Ummul Afifa was named Scholar of the Month and Winona Cabrera Dolorier was named Citizen of the Month. Both students have exemplified outstanding qualities that contribute to our school community.

Nominated for her exceptional hard work and outstanding academic performance, Afifa is a sophomore who demonstrates remarkable dedication by enrolling in two AP courses alongside several honors classes. 

"Her commitment to excellence and willingness to challenge herself set a stellar example for her peers," Associate Principal for Guidance and Support Services Dr. Dina Pannone said. "Congratulations, Ummul!"

Nominated by two staff members, Cabrera Dolorier consistently demonstrates kindness, respect and outstanding behavior. From translating for her peers in digital literacy to sharing her love for graphic novels in the library, she is a true leader and advocate for her friends. She is also excelling in algebra and is recommended for geometry honors next year. 

"What an inspiration," Dr. Pannone said. "Let’s celebrate Winona’s achievements and positive attitude."

Scholar of the Month honors students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, a strong commitment to their studies and a passion for learning, while Citizen of the Month recognizes students who exhibit outstanding character, leadership qualities and a commitment to making a positive impact on our school community and beyond.

Date Added: 3/10/2025

Fourth graders in Jennifer Arella’s class at John F. Kennedy Intermediate School recently held a celebration for the school’s kitchen, staff and custodians during lunchtime. The students presented all the cafeteria staff and custodians with thank you cards, the kitchen ladies received bouquets of flowers, and the custodians received a plate of cookies and cakes. The class also made a banner for the staff saying, “Thank you for all you do.”

Date Added: 3/4/2025

Deer Park High School sophomores attended an in-school assembly on Feb. 11 about ALS awareness. Featured speaker Christine Pendergast, the co-founder of the ALS Ride for Life organization, presented an informative and emotionally uplifting talk about the effects of and search for a cure for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease), which affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Alongside her husband Christopher (who died from ALS in 2020), Pendergast has participated in annual marches all over Long Island, firmly advocating for increased awareness and funding for research. Accompanying her was a patient currently battling the disease.

Deer Park recently installed an innovative Lü Interactive Playground system in the gym at John F. Kennedy Intermediate School for use in the school’s physical education program. This cutting-edge technology – comprised of a giant wall projection, a 3D camera, and a light and audio system – is designed to transform learning and engagement, and creates a fun, hands-on experience where students can play, learn and grow through movement and interaction. 

“Lü Interactive transforms the PE classroom into an engaging, immersive environment where students combine physical activity with technology-driven learning,” Principal Kelly Benson said. “It enhances motor skills, promotes teamwork and keeps students motivated through interactive games and activities that make fitness fun and inclusive for all skill levels. Our teachers are able to take what the students are learning in the classroom and incorporate it into PE lessons, which reinforces what they have learned.”  

“Lü is an indispensable resource that encourages physical activity and movement,” teacher Keri Zuk said. “It enhances student engagement, promotes a healthy lifestyle and it helps children develop both physical and digital literacy skills in an engaging way. Students connect with gamified exercise, and we are so fortunate that Deer Park prioritizes physical education and provides our students with interactive technology.”

“Whether it’s fostering teamwork, boosting physical activity or enhancing problem-solving skills, Lü offers endless possibilities,” Executive Director for Instructional Technology and Innovation Jay Murphy said. “This initiative is all about making learning more dynamic and exciting for students across the district.”

Date Added: 2/28/2025