Deer Park Schools Kick Off New Year With ‘Make It Matter’ Focus

DEER PARK, NY — Deer Park School District Superintendent James Cummings kicked off the 2026-27 school year with a challenge to faculty and staff: “Make It Matter.”

Cummings introduced the district’s new theme during Superintendent’s Conference Day on Sept. 1, centering it on instruction, safety and culture.

He reaffirmed the district’s longstanding mission statement and provided updates on summer programs, districtwide projects, school safety initiatives, curriculum and annual staff training.

As part of the “Make It Matter” theme, Cummings asked staff to consider three questions throughout the year: Are students learning? Do students feel safe, protected and cared for? And do students and staff feel valued, respected and connected?

“We really focus on these three things as educators every day,” Cummings said. “They are not separate — all three are connected. A student who doesn’t feel safe isn't ready to learn, a student who doesn’t feel they belong won’t give us their best and a great culture without strong instruction isn't enough. Instruction without culture isn’t enough, either. We need all three.”