Deer Park High School student-athletes Kasumi Dennis, Max Ferguson, Taylor Gabel, Joe Geosits, Samantha Lent and Madison Picciocchi, accompanied by Varsity Leaders Club adviser Brian Tower, represented the school at the recent Section XI Student-Athlete Leadership Conference. The event brought together student-athletes from high schools across Suffolk County for a day centered on leadership development, personal growth and responsibility, both on and off the field. 

Throughout the conference, participants gained valuable insight into what it means to be an effective leader within a team and school community. Sessions also provided information on college athletics, the recruiting process and the commitment required to compete at the next level. Guest speakers included former and current professional athletes, college coaches, athletic directors, sports psychologists and a former Navy SEAL, all of whom shared impactful experiences and perspectives. A strong emphasis was placed on student-athlete mental health, highlighting the importance of balance, resilience and building strong support systems.
 
“We are proud of these student-athletes for representing our school with integrity and for continuing to develop as leaders within both the athletic program and the school community,” Tower said. 

Date Added: 1/7/2026

 In December, Andrea D’Orazio's AP Research students at Deer Park High School took an important step in their yearlong research projects by presenting to the district’s Institutional Review Board. During these presentations, students explained their research questions, identified gaps in existing studies, outlined their methodology and detailed how they plan to conduct ethical research. The IRB process mirrors what researchers experience at the college and professional levels, requiring students to justify their justify their research gaps and the design of their studies, and demonstrate how they will protect participant privacy and ensure safety during their experiments.

In addition, students formally submitted their Inquiry Proposal Forms for approval so they may begin data collection after winter break.

“Our AP Research students demonstrated professionalism and an understanding of what research ethics entails,” Director of Science and Technology Alison Branca said. “We are so proud of their clear preparation and the wonderful job they are doing as they engage in authentic, college-level academic research practices.

Date Added: 1/5/2026

Deer Park High School’s band and chorus had a busy day on Dec. 23, traveling throughout the district to perform beloved holiday tunes for appreciative audiences at the district office, high school, middle school, JFK, JQA and May Moore. The setlist included traditional favorites as “Silent Night,” “Hark the Herald Angels,” “Jingle Bells,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.”

Date Added: 12/23/2025

Deer Park High School’s talented student musicians took center stage during two winter concerts held Dec. 17 and 18 in the school auditorium. Performed before packed houses, the concerts showcased impressive musicianship and celebrated the hard work of the school’s nine different ensembles.

The first night featured the concert orchestra, directed by Julia Ingemi; the jazz ensemble, directed by Michael Livorno; and the symphonic band, directed by Derek Schmelter. On night two, audiences heard the select choir and mixed chorus, both directed by Catherine Singer; the chamber orchestra, directed by Ingemi; and the wind ensemble, directed by Schmelter. Among the many highlights was the second night’s closer, when the chamber orchestra joined the wind ensemble for a spirited rendition of “Sleigh Ride.”

Additionally, members of the school’s guitar ensemble, led by Scott Abrams, entertained the community by performing holiday music in the lobby.

Click here to view the Winter Concerts Draw Packed Audiences at Deer Park HS slideshow.

 

 

Date Added: 12/22/2025

Two Deer Park High School varsity girls swimmers were recently recognized by Section XI for their outstanding performances during the season. Seniors and team co-captains Vanessa Cayea and Alexa Flores both earned All-League honors, highlighting their leadership and success in the pool.

Date Added: 12/20/2025