Musketeer Monday Part Two: Diana Klammer

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: Diana Klammer, ELA Teacher, Central Islip High School

Q: School / Grade / Subject(s) Taught / Area of Work
A: I am a 9th grade English teacher at Central Islip High School.

Q: How many years of experience in education / teaching / current field do you have?
A: I have been teaching for a total of 23 years. I began my career as a pre-K teacher in a private school and then became a permanent substitute teacher in the Kings Park School District. I later joined the Central Islip School District, where I have been teaching for the past 20 years.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education (or your current field)?
A: I was inspired to become a teacher by my love of working with children and the opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives.

Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of this school/district community?
A: What I enjoy most about being part of the Central Islip School District is the students. They are welcoming, accepting of others, and demonstrate a strong sense of pride in their school and community.

Q: What do you consider the most rewarding part of your job?
A: One of the most rewarding aspects of my role as an educator is seeing students grow academically and personally as they gain the confidence to take risks in and out of the classroom.

Q: What’s a few memorable moments you’ve had with students or colleagues?
A: Some of my most memorable moments in teaching are receiving letters of appreciation—especially from students who once seemed disengaged or uninterested. Those notes often reveal how deeply they were listening and how much the lessons, stories, and classroom conversations truly mattered to them.

Q: Please list a teacher or staff member that has made a positive impact on you in this district and explain why.
A: I have been fortunate to work with many exceptional people, but one person who truly stands out is my good friend, Eric Perez. Over the years, he has been a constant source of guidance and support, influencing not only my career but my personal life as well.

Q: What’s your favorite event or tradition in our schools?
A: One of my favorite traditions is the day before winter break, when the music department fills the halls with holiday music. The performance celebrates student talent and brings schoolwide pride, adding to the holiday spirit and creating a warm, festive tone throughout the building.

Q: Where did you grow up / go to school?
A: I grew up in Saint James and graduated from Smithtown High School.

Q: Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV show? Tell us about them!
A: As someone who enjoys a good laugh, Schitt’s Creek is a television show I consider a favorite. Its humor is smart, character-driven, and lighthearted, making it both entertaining and enjoyable.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote or motto you live by?
A: “In the end, kindness is what matters most.” People will always remember how you made them feel.

Q: What are some activities you do in your spare time outside of school?
A: Outside of school, I enjoy vacationing, spending time with my family, taking on home projects, and expressing my creativity through photography.

Q: If you could have dinner with any historical figure or celebrity, who would it be?
A: If I could pick one historical figure to have dinner with, I would choose Robin Williams because of his incredible wit, creativity, and compassion. Beyond his humor, he had a unique ability to connect with people, share meaningful insights, and bring joy while also speaking honestly about life and its challenges.

Q: If you weren’t in education or the field you're in now, what career would you choose?
A: Teaching has always been my passion, and I truly love what I do. However, if I were to choose a career path outside of education, I would be drawn to working with older adults. I value listening to their stories, offering companionship and support, and helping them feel respected and cared for.

Q: What’s one thing on your bucket list (travel, skill, experience)?
A: I would love to take a family trip to Ireland because of its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and strong sense of culture and tradition. It would be a meaningful experience to explore the country together and create lasting family memories.