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 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

Deer Park High School’s inaugural Falcon Band Day on February 8 was a resounding success, as students from grades 5 through 12 came together for a day of musical exchange and teamwork. The event gave students the unique opportunity to collaborate across grade levels, working on each other’s music selections. Older students shared their experience and skills with younger peers, while younger students brought fresh energy and new perspectives to the group. 

“The energy and enthusiasm from all the students – whether they were teaching or learning – was incredible,” Deer Park High School Band Director Derek Schmelter said. “It was a true celebration of what happens when students come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.”

“It was inspiring to see students teaching, learning and growing together throughout the day, united by their passion for music,” Fine and Performing Arts Director Bradley Murphy said. “A special thank you to the dedicated music educators and school staff who made the event possible, as well as to the Deer Park community for its continued support of the arts. Falcon Band Day was a testament to the talent, teamwork and spirit of our students, showing that, through music, they can achieve extraordinary things.”

Date Added: 2/26/2025

Just in time for the NFL championship, the student government at John F. Kennedy Intermediate School conducted its annual “Souper” Bowl last week. The entire school joined forces to collect a total of 230 soup cans to donate to the food pantry at St. Cyril and Methodius Church.

“As we prepared for the big game, JFK worked to tackle hunger in our very own community,” teacher Darlene Matulich said.

Date Added: 2/13/2025

Five different classes at John F. Kennedy Intermediate School recently joined forces to sponsor a dog named Vivian at the Babylon Animal Shelter. The students worked together to collect items needed by the shelter needed.

“We taught our classes the importance of giving back during the holiday season,” teacher Heather Buksa said.

Date Added: 1/9/2025