James Henry teaches college level Pre-Calculus and inclusion Algebra Regents to students at Deer Park High School by utilizing leading-edge academic technology resources. This past year Mr. Henry operated one of the district’s model classrooms, which was equipped with interactive technologies including SMART Board whiteboards, MacBooks, SMART Document Cameras, iPod Touches, SMART Response interactive testing systems and SMART AirLiner Wireless Slates.  

Through these tools students incorporated podcasting into the math curriculum and created live presentations to share and review with their peers. A variety of software applications enabled students to work directly with virtual materials such as graphing calculators, protractors and rulers and better prepare for exams. The “SMART” devices also enabled Mr. Henry to collect and sort data in order to tailor his lessons and increase student performance.

Due to the initial successes of the model classrooms, the district plans to expand and further develop model classrooms throughout the district.

Chief Operating Officer of Western Suffolk BOCES Dr. Michael Mensch recognized the district’s initiatives and honored Deer Park Director of Technology Dr. Jared Bloom as Administrator of the Year for the BOCES' Model Schools program. In addition, May Moore Elementary School teacher Susan Steinman won a Technology Integration Award and a $1,000 grant for her work at the primary level.