LI History and Geography Offered As New Electives At Deer Park HS

DEER PARK, NY — The curriculum at Deer Park High School is showcasing the importance of Long Island's history and ecosystems.

Two new electives, Long Island History, a social studies course taught by Joseph Alo, and Natural History of Long Island, a science course taught by Kevin Richards, entered the school's curriculum this year.

This is the first time courses of these topics are offered at the school, the district said.

In Richards’ class, students learn about the geology and ecology of Long Island, exploring topics such as how glaciers impacted Long Island and the various ecosystems on Long Island, like the Hempstead Plains. It also shows how climate change can affect Long Islanders.

Students participate in various lab activities to better understand these topics and attend field trips to explore some of Long Island’s natural environments.

“The course was created to not only educate students about where they live, but hopefully
instill a greater appreciation for the place we all call home,” Richards said.

Alo’s class explores Long Island history from its geological origins to the present day. Analyzing the island both as a distinct region and as a case study in the broader history of America, students examine the impact of the ethnic, cultural, political, social and religious diversity that developed over time and gave the island its identity.

“Long Island holds a rich and storied history that is often overlooked in the grand scheme of the study of history,” said Alo.

Field trips exploring the culture and history that Long Island has to offer began with a visit to the Long Island Aquarium and possible future trips to Sagtikos Manor, the Gatsby-era Gold Coast mansions, the birthplace of Walt Whitman, Sagamore Hill, a Long Island Ducks game and countless other Long Island historic sites.

“As Long Islanders, it is important to understand the events and concepts that got us to where we are today," said Alo. "This is history and culture that directly impacts us, rather than reading about distant civilizations."