Musketeer Monday Part Two: Gina Febles

Welcome to Reed Middle School, where this week's Musketeer Monday Spotlight highlights our Bilingual Office Assistant, Ms. Gina Febles!

Gina is celebrating her 15th year as a dedicated employee of the Central Islip School District. She began her career at Reed Middle School in March 2009. As the Bilingual Office Assistant in the Main Office, Gina's responsibilities include, but are not limited to, translating for students, the school principal, assistant principals, the school nurse, and parents. She also creates ID badges for employees.

When asked about her family and her thoughts on her role and professional responsibilities, Gina shared:
"I honestly feel blessed to be in this position. My parents came to CI over 45 years ago from Mexico. We lived in CI until I was six years old. As the youngest of four, I saw how my parents were driven to provide the best for us, sacrificing so much to give us a great education."

Gina connects her own family's experiences of growing up in America to the families of today's Reed School and the CI Community she now serves:
"In this position, I feel I can help families who struggle with language barriers and are working hard to provide for their children. I treat each parent as though they were my own parents when they first arrived here—with patience and respect. It has been a privilege to work in the same community where my parents started their journey with their kids. I want the Hispanic community to feel comfortable communicating with their school, without fear of being misunderstood or unheard."

Equally important to supporting parents, Gina emphasizes the need for students to feel comfortable and safe:
"It’s essential for students to know there is someone in the Main Office who will listen to their concerns, answer their questions, or simply be a friendly ear."

Outside of work, Gina cherishes spending time with her four children. She also enjoys reading, traveling Upstate, cooking, and spending time outdoors.