Musketeer Monday: Dolores Martinez

Q: School / Grade / Subject(s) Taught / Area of Work
A: Reed Middle School Social Worker.

Q: How many years of experience in education / teaching / current field do you have?
A: 13 years.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education (or your current field)?
A: I was inspired to become a school social worker because I believe every child deserves to feel supported, understood, and capable of success, in spite of the daily challenges they may encounter. I wanted a career that allowed me to support others, and the position of school social worker allows me to be that support. It enables me to help students and families navigate challenges, build resilience, and feel empowered to succeed both in the classroom and in the real world.

Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of this school/district community?
A: I have always taken pride in being part of the Central Islip community. Growing up in CI, I spent my formative years here, and it molded me into the person I am today. As a child and young adult attending our schools, I always felt empowered, supported, and cared for. Now, I get to continue that tradition and pay it forward to our current students. There is no better place to be a school social worker than home.

Q: What do you consider the most rewarding part of your job?
A: The most rewarding part of the job is getting to see our students face adversity and thrive. I get to support students and families through challenging times, while also witnessing their resilience and grit.

Q: What are a few memorable moments you’ve had with students or colleagues?
A: Some of the most memorable moments are when students reach out after moving on from Reed, getting to see them graduate, and seeing the pride in their and their families’ eyes.

Q: Please list a teacher or staff member that has made a positive impact on you in this district and explain why.
A: As a student at Central Islip High School, Mrs. Baglio and Mrs. Suhanee were important figures in my life. They listened without judgment, led with love, and always provided support and encouragement. As an adult working in this community, Mr. Bahr, Dr. Lefferts, and Mrs. Ericca Jones Marshall have all been influential and inspiring. Their ability to connect with children and champion students while helping them learn, grow, and develop is remarkable. I am fortunate to work alongside them every day.

Q: What’s your favorite event or tradition in our schools?
A: My favorite yearly event is the Senior Walk-Through. It is always special to see former students and cheer them on in their success.

Q: Where did you grow up / go to school?
A: Central Islip—Mulligan, Reed, and CIHS—then Stony Brook University.

Q: Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV show? Tell us about them.
A: My favorite book is The Women. It is a historical fiction novel based on real stories of women who served as nurses in the Vietnam War.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote or motto you live by?
A: “When nothing is certain, anything is possible.”

Q: What are some activities you do in your spare time outside of school?
A: When I have spare time, I love to travel with my fiancé, visit family down south, attend Broadway shows, and spend time with my dogs. We enjoy making new memories.

Q: If you could have dinner with any historical figure or celebrity, who would it be?
A: This is a tough one—probably Selena or Jane Addams, the pioneer of social work.

Q: If you weren’t in education or the field you're in now, what career would you choose?
A: I always wanted to be a doctor or work in another helping profession.

Q: What’s one thing on your bucket list (travel, skill, experience)?
A: To visit all of the Disney Parks worldwide.