Musketeer Monday Part Two: Davian Perez

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:

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Musketeer Monday Part Two: Davian Perez, 12th Grade, Central Islip High School

Q: What is your favorite subject in school, and why?
A: My favorite subject in school is music. It was never just about performing or making it sound good for people—band and music brought me into a family and gave me an outlet where I could express my feelings.

Q: Are you involved in any school activities or clubs? If so, which ones?
A: I have been on the baseball team for four years. I’m also a member of NHS, SNHS, Jazz Ensemble, PIT Orchestra, Action Committee, Senior Club, Band Club, Marching Band, and STEP through NYIT.

Q: Have you ever taken on a leadership role at school? Please describe your experience.
A: Yes. I served as Corresponding Secretary in STEP through NYIT, handling money and attendance. I am also Drum Major 1B for the Marching Band—a demanding leadership role that involves taking charge of a 140-person band, controlling rehearsals, working directly with Mr. Ryan and Mr. Pyle, running trumpet sectionals, and organizing Wednesday night rehearsals with my co-drum major and leadership team.

Q: Have you received any awards, honors, or special recognition? Tell us about them.
A: I’ve made the LIU Honor Festival Band as second chair trumpet, NYSCAME twice (once in the sit-in band and once as first trumpet in the symphony orchestra), and All-State twice—most recently as first trumpet for the Symphony Orchestra. I received All-State and All-County recognition, was featured in a news article, scored a 99 on a level 5 All-State solo, and earned a 100 on an All-State solo from junior to senior year.

Q: Do you participate in any activities outside of school? Please explain.
A: Yes. I volunteer and am an active member of my church. I also play baseball year-round on a travel team—a commitment I’ve kept since I was very young.

Q: Have you ever been involved in any activities or hobbies in the past that were meaningful to you?
A: Yes, I was a member of the PIT Orchestra for Shrek: The Musical, where I played the trumpet parts for the live performance. It was an unforgettable experience being part of the orchestra that brought the story to life.

Q: Who are your biggest role models in school and outside of school?
A: My biggest role models in school are Mr. Ryan, Mr. Pyle, and Mr. Soldano. Outside of school, my role models are my private instructor, Mr. Devassy, and my parents.

Q: What qualities do you believe make someone a good leader or role model in school?
A: I believe people who show tough love, loyalty, and build trust make great role models. Those are the kinds of people who inspire students and motivate them to keep going.

Q: How do you contribute to creating a positive environment at your school?
A: I’m an active member of NHS and volunteer at school events. I also help create a welcoming environment within the band program where everyone feels included and valued.

Q: Please list a teacher or staff member who has made a positive impact on you. Explain why.
A: I actually have two—Mr. Ryan and Mr. Soldano. Last year was a difficult time for me, including the loss of family members, and they were both incredibly supportive. Mr. Ryan gave me tough love but always stood by me, mentoring me through it all. Mr. Soldano showed kindness when I needed it most, giving me a second chance in science research and helping me feel less alone.

Q: What is your favorite part about your school?
A: My favorite part about my school is its willingness to push students to do their best and reach their full potential. I especially love being part of the music and sports programs.

Q: What are some activities you do in your spare time outside of school?
A: I play baseball, work, volunteer, and perform with outside music groups. Besides the trumpet, I also play guitar in my free time.

Q: What’s your favorite book, movie, or TV show right now? Why?
A: My favorite movie is The Batman (2022). Batman has always been my favorite superhero, and I loved how this version took a darker, mystery-driven approach—it quickly became one of my all-time favorites.

Q: How would your friends describe you?
A: My friends would describe me as caring and honest. I’m upfront with people, and they admire that about me. They’d also say I’m loyal and someone they can always count on.

Q: What does being a good classmate or friend mean to you?
A: Being a good friend means everything to me. Everyone deserves someone they can feel safe coming to when something’s bothering them. I want to be that person—and as a drum major, I make sure people never feel intimidated but instead welcomed and supported.