John F. Kennedy Intermediate School was recently recognized by Suffolk County Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly with a proclamation honoring the school as an outstanding educational establishment. The visit coincided with the unveiling of a new book vending machine, donated by Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DelVillar in memory of their daughter, Jennifer Capone.

Capone, a beloved former district employee, was known for her commitment to ensuring that every student felt included and valued. The new vending machine honors that legacy by promoting kindness schoolwide. When students at JFK are “caught being kind,” they receive a ticket that enters them into a monthly drawing. Winners will receive a token to choose a book from the vending machine.

Date Added: 12/3/2025

At its Nov. 25 Board of Education meeting, the Deer Park School District celebrated student achievement, honored outstanding staff members, welcomed new hires and heard updates on key instructional programs.

The first recognition of the evening went to Robert Frost Middle School student Ibrahim Mughal, who was unable to attend, for winning the Town of Babylon’s Veterans Awareness Day essay contest. 

May Moore Primary School Creation Station aide Sue Broccio was the recipient of the month’s staff recognition.

“Sue is the ultimate team player, bringing dedication, enthusiasm and a problem-solving mindset to May Moore every single day,” Principal Tammy Alcalde said. “She arrives ready at work, always with a smile, and is eager to step in wherever needed. Her initiative is unmatched. She anticipates challenges and finds solutions before they even arise. Beyond her role, Sue plays a vital part in ensuring student safety, expertly managing both arrival and dismissal to guarantee that every child gets to their classroom in the morning and to their bus in the afternoon. Her rapport with students and exceptional, creating a positive and welcoming environment in our school community. In the Creation Station, Sue provides invaluable support by assisting with lessons, preparing materials and helping book checking and checkout. Her contributions extend far beyond her job description, making a lasting impact on our students and staff. Sue’s work ethic and team spirit make her truly deserving of districtwide recognition. She is an irreplaceable member of the May Moore family, and we are so grateful for all that she does.”

Several new instructional hires were then welcomed, including Deer Park High School science teacher John Pankey and teaching assistants Caitlin Buchholz, Rachel Rhodes, Megan Rooney-Merkle, Christina Vitarella and Angela Walz, and two faculty members – John F. Kennedy Intermediate School special education teacher Alexandra Morelli and Robert Frost Middle School teaching assistant Erin Schabe – were granted tenure.
    
In the Buildings and Grounds Department, current Supervisor William Fitzgerald was promoted to Director of Operations, and Deer Park High School chief custodian James Perrotta was named districtwide chief custodian.

“Billy and James, we couldn’t be happier with the devotion, love and heart you bring to your jobs every single day,” Board President Donna Marie Elliott said. “Your devotion to this district doesn’t go unnoticed, so congratulations.” 

Finally, Director of Elementary Education Dr. Danielle Sheridan gave a detailed presentation on the district’s elementary programs, supported by the principals, assistant principals and directors.

“This presentation truly shed a light on the amazing work that our teachers, teaching assistants and staff do on a daily basis,” Superintendent James Cummings said.

Date Added: 12/1/2025

Deer Park High School’s Patriot Club recently led the districtwide “Red, White & Jeans” and “Hats for Heroes” fundraising initiative, with students and staff across all buildings wearing hats, jeans and patriotic colors to raise awareness and support for veterans facing challenges upon returning home.

This year’s effort was the district’s most successful to date, generating an impressive $1,100, the highest amount Deer Park has ever raised for the cause. All donations are contributed to the GI Go Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans in all aspects of their lives. The Deer Park School District was recognized as the top donor for the organization this year, highlighting the school community’s ongoing dedication to honoring and supporting service members.

Representatives from each building – Lynda Emig from the superintendent’s office, Robert Frost Associate Principal Kevin Quirk, JFK teachers Kristen Alo and Michele Alo, JQA teacher Victoria Mott, May Moore secretary Annemarie Dawson and Assistant School Transportation Supervisor Karen Camodeo – served as liaisons to coordinate collections and spread awareness throughout the district, playing a key role in the overall success of this year’s initiative.

Date Added: 11/20/2025

The Citizenship Committee at John F. Kennedy Intermediate School proudly hosted its sixth annual Veterans Day Breakfast on Nov. 7, bringing together students and their family members who have served in the U.S. armed forces. The event offered a warm and meaningful opportunity for the school community to honor veterans’ service while fostering connection and patriotism.

Date Added: 11/17/2025

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