Musketeer Monday Part Three: Lizz Rivera

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 Three: Lizz Rivera, CIHS

Q: What school, grade, or area of work are you in?
A: I work in the High School Guidance Department as a Senior Office Assistant (Spanish Speaking).

Q: How many years of experience do you have in education or your current field?
A: I’ve been working in Central Islip since 2014. I worked in the Special Education Department from 2014 to 2021, then transferred to the High School Guidance Department in August 2021, where I currently work.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education or your current field?
A: My inspiration stems from my parents. Both of them are alumni of Central Islip and work in the district as well.

Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of this school or district community?
A: I love the cultural diversity of Central Islip.

Q: What do you consider the most rewarding part of your job?
A: Being able to assist the Spanish-speaking community. So many members of our community come to the United States for a better life and work hard to support their loved ones. Learning a new language can be very difficult, and the most rewarding part of my job is seeing the relief on a parent’s or student’s face when I’m able to assist them in their native language.

Q: What’s a memorable moment you’ve had with students or colleagues?
A: Seeing the students walk the stage at graduation.

Q: Please list a teacher or staff member who has made a positive impact on you in this district and explain why.
A: My mom, Maria Ortiz-Rivera, Senior Office Assistant of Music/Technology. My mom is my superhero. I never knew how much mental energy and skill it takes to work in an office. I strive to be as excellent as her.

Q: What’s your favorite event or tradition in our schools?
A: My favorite tradition is the Senior Walk Through.

Q: Where did you grow up or go to school?
A: Central Islip – Class of 2013.

Q: Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV show?
A: My favorite movie is The Shawshank Redemption.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote or motto you live by?
A: “No matter where life takes me, find me with a smile.” – Mac Miller

Q: What are some activities you do in your spare time outside of school?
A: I’m a board member of Uplift Our Towns. I encourage whoever reads this to look us up on social media and get involved in your community.

Q: If you could have dinner with any historical figure or celebrity, who would it be?
A: Roberto Clemente.

Q: What’s one thing on your bucket list?
A: Travel the world.