The district has appointed James Henry as the new director of math and business, effective Aug. 11. Henry had served as an associate principal at Robert Frost Middle School since 2018. He previously worked as Deer Park’s curriculum associate for math and business in grades 6-12. Before that, he taught math at Deer Park High School for a dozen years, including algebra pre-calculus and pre-AP calculus, and served as a mentor to new teachers, lead teacher for Algebra Common Core and a member of the model classroom, as well as director of the high school’s winter play and musical, and as a class and National Honor Society adviser.

A Hauppauge resident, Henry earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics from St. Josephs College in Patchogue, his master’s degree in arts and liberal sciences at Stony Brook University, and his school building and school district leadership certificates from the College of Saint Rose.

“I’m truly excited to begin my new role as director of math and business,” Henry said. “My goal is to spark curiosity, build confidence, and help both students and teachers see how what we learn connects to the real world. By encouraging collaboration and fresh ideas, I hope to promote our current programs, and also create new programs that not only support academic growth but also prepare our students for the opportunities and challenges ahead.” 

Date Added: 8/27/2025

This July, seven students – Alexis Borowski, Bailey Corcoran, Aubrey Goetz, Carysn Goetz, Chloe Luby, Sophia Paduano and Eve Valentine – in the Deer Park High School chapter of Best Buddies traveled to Indiana University Bloomington to attend the annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference, an event uniting Best Buddies leaders, volunteers and community advocates from around the globe to imagine, create, lead and empower the future of the disability rights and inclusion movement. The Deer Park students returned home with triumphant news that they had won the New York State Most Outstanding Chapter Award for 2025, a prestigious honor celebrating the dedication to inclusion and friendship for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The award was presented to Deer Park’s student representatives by Best Buddies founder Anthony Kennedy Shriver.

In addition to this statewide recognition, the Deer Park chapter was also honored at the Babylon Town Hall by Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer and Councilman Terrence McSweeney for their outstanding efforts and impact within the community. A small group from Best Buddies attended the Town Hall ceremony to receive recognition for all of the effort the chapter puts into inclusion.

“We are forever grateful for the support that is shown for our chapter in the Deer Park School District and the Deer Park community,” Best Buddies co-advisers Joe Alo and Gabriella Gilmartin said. “It is this support and the number of dedicated students that we have the opportunity to work with each school year that truly makes this chapter incredible. We look forward to all of the great events and buddies we will make along the way to 2026 and beyond.”

“These amazing moments of success and recognition would not be possible without Gabby Gilmartin,” Alo said. “From having started this chapter many years ago, to reaching so many new heights with our club year after year, her dedication and commitment to our chapter, her students,and the community are unmatched. She truly is the definition of what Best Buddies is all about.”

Date Added: 8/13/2025

The Deer Park High School Class of 2025 celebrated the milestone event of graduation on June 26. As Al Centamore Football Field filled with board of education members, administrators, staff, families and friends, the soon-to-be graduates processed onto the field in their maroon and white caps and gowns, smiling and looking forward to the future.

To open the ceremony, Student Council President Gloria Min led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by Nathalie Martillo performing a beautiful rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” 

After a warm welcome from Principal Charles Cobb, senior class advisers Julissa Larkin and Anne McCormack reminded students to always remember their home and to be curious, resilient and lead with kindness.

Senior Class President Tonika Sikder addressed her peers recalling high school memories and lessons. 

“This is a moment to remember everything it took to get to this point,” Sikder said in her heartfelt speech. “We learned a lot during our time here; some academic and some not. But what matters most is we learned how to persevere and grow.”

“Standing here with each of you, I reflect on our journey and I am reminded of our achievements,” Class of 2025 Salutatorian Adib Shaikh said. “We were given the gift of education, and you should never stop striving for more. Do something greater, stay humble and be the generation that turns privilege into purpose.” 

Valedictorian Reza Zorakhsh spoke about half cadences, noting how graduation is itself a half cadence – a suspenseful pause before moving forward. He reminded his peers that their many late-night study sessions and preparations for presentations were all half cadences essential in shaping their future. 

An annual tradition continued as the valedictorian from a decade prior, Sabrina Grunseich, offered words of wisdom. She reminded the graduates that on their journey toward achieving their dreams, they should find time for their hobbies and be sure to always listen to their hearts. 

“Some of you grew up here, some of you came from other towns, some from other countries,” Superintendent of Schools James Cummings said. “But no matter where you came from, you made it, and you made it together. This is a moment where all your stories intersect for one moment in time. You’ve been part of a community that believes in you and no matter where you go, that will never change. When life gets challenging – and it will –  remember the people who helped you along the way, and always know you have a place to come home to.”  

Closing the ceremony, Cobb proudly addressed the Class of 2025. He recognized seniors who participated in the junior firefighter program and those who will be joining different branches of the military. Cobb congratulated all students and reminded them to reflect on their achievements, honor their journeys and continue to grow, learn and pursue their dreams. 

Finally, the moment arrived that the Class of 2025 had been anticipating, the awarding of diplomas. As each name was called, the graduates received their diplomas and enthusiastically shook hands with members of the Board of Education. They were then instructed to turn their tassels, marking their official transition from Deer Park High School students to proud Falcons alumni. As their caps flew into the air, all those assembled cheered, wishing the grads endless success on the journey ahead. 

Date Added: 6/30/2025