Musketeer Monday Part Two: Kristina Santana

Mrs. Kristina Santana is one of this week’s featured staff members in our Musketeer Monday spotlight!

A proud special education teacher for a Life Skills 8:1:1 classroom at Morrow Elementary School for the past 14 years, Mrs. Santana began her teaching career in the Central Islip School District in 2004 at Reed Middle School. Before joining CI Schools, she taught Spanish in another district for two years.

Mrs. Santana shared her passion for teaching at Morrow Elementary in her own words:
“My goal is to create a safe and loving classroom environment where my students can grow academically, physically, socially, verbally, and emotionally. I teach my students with compassion and enthusiasm so they become active learners who love school and learning. I encourage my students to be as independent as possible.”

She also credits her teaching assistant, Mrs. Pilkington, as a key part of the classroom’s success. Together, they take pride in creating what Mrs. Santana describes as “a beautiful learning environment” each year.
“I am extremely fortunate to be working with someone who is as passionate about our profession. It is beyond rewarding to have the opportunity to marvel at our students as they successfully progress throughout the school year. My students, hands down, are the most rewarding aspect of my career,” she explained.

Mrs. Santana also offered a glimpse into her family life:
“I come from a family of mostly teachers, so summers are always amazing being all together. My brother and I both followed in our mother’s footsteps—we both became teachers. My parents instilled in us the value of education and the importance of choosing a career that makes you happy. I just got married two years ago to the love of my life, Lenny, and we are trying to have a baby.”

Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Santana loves traveling and exploring the world.
“I enjoy attending comedy shows and concerts, and I love reading, shopping, playing games, swimming, watching movies, and spending time with my friends.”

Reflecting on her colleagues, she added:
“I am honored to work among the most remarkable teachers. We fill Morrow Elementary School with love. I have built lifelong friendships here—these coworkers have become my chosen family.”