Musketeer Monday Part One: Fran Ehrhardt

Welcome to Musketeer Monday, a weekly series in which we feature students and staff around the Central Islip School District. If you’re interested in nominating a fellow Musketeer, please click the link below to submit your nomination:

Musketeer Monday Form

Musketeer Monday Part One: Fran Ehrhardt, Special Education Teacher, Morrow Elementary School

Q: School / Grade / Subject(s) Taught / Area of Work
A: A.T. Morrow Elementary / Kindergarten / Special Education / 8:1:1

Q: How many years of experience in education / teaching / current field do you have?
A: I have a total of 23 years of experience working with children with special needs. I’ve been a special education teacher in the Central Islip School District for 8 years and have taught Kindergarten special education for 4 years.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education (or your current field)?
A: Teaching children with special needs is a true passion of mine. I value the opportunity to work with students of multiple learning abilities and to learn from them every day. Using what my students teach me helps me support them in becoming the best version of themselves.

Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of this school/district community?
A: Central Islip holds great meaning for me, not only as the place where I teach amazing students, but also as the community where I live. My children graduated from Central Islip and now also work in the district. Being able to give back to my community is a gift I truly value.

Q: What do you consider the most rewarding part of your job?
A: The most rewarding part of my job is watching my students take small steps toward achieving their educational goals. Seeing their progress and the pride on their faces is incredibly meaningful.

Q: What’s a memorable moment you’ve had with students or colleagues?
A: I’ve taught many non-verbal students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and witnessing them learn to communicate effectively with teachers and peers has been unforgettable. Sharing those moments with colleagues—especially hearing a child use their words for the first time—is truly priceless.

Q: Please list a teacher or staff member who has made a positive impact on you in this district and explain why.
A: Josette Crean, a fellow special education teacher in the district, has made a tremendous impact on me. She’s taught me much of what I apply in my classroom today and is always willing to share ideas, advice, and support. She’s not only an incredible educator but also a valued friend and colleague.

Q: What’s your favorite event or tradition in our schools?
A: One of my favorite traditions is the senior walk-throughs. Seeing graduating seniors return to their elementary schools to share their pride and success with their former teachers is a priceless experience.

Q: Where did you grow up / go to school?
A: I grew up in Bay Shore and graduated from Bay Shore High School. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from SUNY Old Westbury, a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Dowling College, and completed postgraduate coursework at Stony Brook University to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Q: Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV show?
A: I’m a child at heart, so my favorite books are children’s books—especially those written by Peter H. Reynolds. My favorite is The Dot, which inspires confidence and encourages students to make their mark on the world.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote or motto you live by?
A: “If they can’t learn the way we teach, we teach the way they learn.” — Ivar Lovaas

Q: What are some activities you enjoy outside of school?
A: I absolutely love to crochet!

Q: If you could have dinner with any historical figure or celebrity, who would it be?
A: I would love the opportunity to meet Abraham Lincoln—I’m a huge fan.

Q: If you weren’t in education or the field you’re in now, what career would you choose?
A: I would choose education again and again.

Q: What’s one thing on your bucket list?
A: Traveling to a foreign country. I’ve visited Australia and would love the chance to travel to England next.