Proudly wearing the school colors of white, grey, and maroon, the entire Deer Park school community came together on the sunny morning of Oct. 18 for a joyful homecoming parade, marching from John F. Kennedy Intermediate School to Deer Park High School. Serving as grand marshal was longtime Deer Park resident and district custodian Tony Santoro, a proud member of the Deer Park High School Class of 1977 and dedicated Deer Park Fire Department.

Once everyone gathered at Al Centamore Football Field Football Field for the pregame ceremony, Student Council President Ava Bush led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by “The Star-Spangled Banner” sung by the Phoenix Club. The celebration continued with recognition of the 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees, and County Legislator Tom Donnelly presented Santoro with a special commendation.

“Tony lives his life as a great example of what it means to be a valued community member,” Board of Education President Donna Marie Elliott said. “For all that you do, Tony, here at Deer Park High School, for all the happiness you bring to our beautiful town, and especially for what you mean to Deer Park and all of us, we celebrate and honor you today.”

The crowd was then treated to energetic performances by the Robert Frost Middle School and varsity kickline teams, as well as the PAL, Frost, JV, and varsity cheerleaders. Adding a royal highlight to the ceremony, Kerwin Bartholomew and Alexis Borowski were crowned homecoming king and queen and took their ceremonial ride around the track as the Phoenix Club performed the school’s alma mater. Members of the homecoming court included Ilayda Avcu, Pearse Boylan, Heidy Gonzalez Morales, Thomas Luscardi, Jaheim McCallum and Mischa Rose.

While awaiting the big game kickoff, the Student Council hosted a festive Fall Festival behind the stands, featuring pumpkin decorating, face painting with the Art Club, and a food drive to support local families.

Deer Park’s Falcons came out fast and furious, with wide receiver/defensive back Christian Myrick returning a 71-yard punt for the game’s first touchdown. Myrick added two more exciting TDs before the second quarter ended, but Newfield’s Wolverines ultimately prevailed, 42-21. 

At halftime, the Marching Falcons electrified the crowd with a rousing performance, and the winners of the high school’s float contest were announced – the seniors captured first place, followed by the juniors in second, sophomores in third and freshmen in fourth.

Date Added: 10/21/2025

Guided by teachers Briana Fayans, Samantha Racano and Ashley Woolsey, art classes at Deer Park’s three elementary schools – John F. Kennedy Intermediate School, John Quincy Adams Primary School and May Moore Primary School – celebrated International Dot Day on Sept. 15. Based on the Peter Reynolds’ book “The Dot,” the annual event promotes a strong, encouraging message about always trying your best, and students and staff dressed in polka dots to get everyone in the Dot Day spirit.

“We like to start the school year with this story because it creates a sense of community and encourages collaboration as we complete schoolwide banners and displays to celebrate,” Fayans said. 

Date Added: 9/23/2025

In remembrance of the Sept. 11 attacks, students from each class in Deer Park’s three elementary schools – John F. Kennedy Intermediate School, John Quincy Adams Primary School and May Moore Primary School – took part today in the annual flag planting ceremony. This Patriot Day tradition, in which children place small American flags in front of their school buildings, helps our students reflect on the day’s significance while also honoring those who continue to serve and protect our nation.

Date Added: 9/11/2025

The first day of school in Deer Park was filled with sunshine and smiles as students from prekindergartners to seniors arrived on Aug. 2 to begin a busy new year of learning and friendship in the district’s five buildings.

“Our first day was filled with excitement as JQA welcomed our students back to school,” JQA Principal Chris Molinelli said. “It was so nice to see our hallways and classrooms full of students’ smiles and laughter.”

“Behind every great first day is the tireless effort of our staff, who work year-round to prepare for our students’ success,” High School Principal Charlie Cobb said.

“What an incredible first day back,” May Moore Principal Tammy Alcalde said. “It was a joy to welcome our students, staff and families at May Moore as we began a new school year together. The energy in our classrooms and hallways sets the tone for a year filled with learning, growth and community. Thank you to our dedicated staff and supportive families for helping make today such a successful and positive start.”

Date Added: 9/3/2025