Musketeer Monday Part Two: Cathy Pepitone

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: Cathy Peptione, Senior Office Assistant, Central Islip High School

Q: School / Grade / Subject(s) Taught / Area of Work
A: Central Islip High School / Main Office Secretary

Q: How many years of experience in education / teaching / current field do you have?
A: 29 years in the Central Islip High School main office.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education (or your current field)?
A: I was inspired to become a secretary because I enjoy helping others and being part of the school community I grew up in. Working in the high school main office allows me to give back while supporting students and families within the community.

Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of this school/district community?
A: I love the fast-paced environment of the main office—no two days are ever the same. I also enjoy working in the same community where I grew up and collaborating with the incredible faculty and staff I’ve worked alongside for the past 29 years. We truly have become a family.

Q: What do you consider the most rewarding part of your job?
A: The most rewarding moments are when former students return years after graduating and share how a small gesture or piece of advice I gave them made a lasting impression. Hearing about their career paths and having them come back specifically to visit me means so much. Even running into students outside of school—like hearing “Hey, Mrs. P!” at the mall and getting a big hug—reminds me why I love what I do.

Q: What’s a memorable moment you’ve had with students or colleagues?
A: One of my favorite memories is attending prom and seeing the students dressed up, happy, and celebrating such a special milestone together.

Q: Please list a teacher or staff member that has made a positive impact on you in this district and explain why.
A: Leida Morales made a huge impact on me. When I first started, I was very young and unsure if I could handle such a busy office. She took me under her wing, supported me, and helped me grow into my role. I will always be grateful to her—it was one of the best decisions I ever made.

Q: What’s your favorite event or tradition in our schools?
A: Banish the Blues was one of my favorite traditions during Regents week in January. Staff members would cook for faculty and staff, and we would all gather in the cafeteria while the music department entertained us. Spirit Week is also a great event that brings everyone together.

Q: Where did you grow up / go to school?
A: I grew up on Francisco Avenue in Central Islip and graduated from Central Islip High School in 1992.

Q: Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV show? Tell us about them!
A: My favorite books are anything by Colleen Hoover and Elin Hilderbrand. My favorite movies are Grease and Pretty Woman, and my favorite TV show is Friends.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote or motto you live by?
A: “It is what it is.”

Q: What are some activities you do in your spare time outside of school?
A: I love boating, going to the beach, and anything involving tropical islands and warm weather.

Q: If you could have dinner with any historical figure or celebrity, who would it be?
A: Jennifer Lopez—despite her personal life, I’m a big fan of hers.

Q: If you weren’t in education or the field you're in now, what career would you choose?
A: A court reporter.

Q: What’s one thing on your bucket list (travel, skill, experience)?
A: When I retire, I would love to go on an African safari with my husband and kids and travel extensively.