Musketeer Monday Part Two: Leana Espinoza

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

Q: School / Grade / Subject(s) Taught / Area of Work
A: I am the Senior Office Assistant in the Department of Athletics, Health & Physical Education. 

Q: How many years of experience in education / teaching / current field do you have?
A: I have 20 years of experience in the district.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education (or your current field)?
A: I wanted to assist the community that supported me since migrating to the United States.

Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of this school/district community?
A: I enjoy helping the children and my community.

Q: What do you consider the most rewarding part of your job?
A: Knowing that I am able to assist coaches and families within my community and serve as a bridge for the language barriers that exist is the most rewarding part of my job.

Q: What are a few memorable moments you’ve had with students or colleagues?
A: Being able to socialize with teachers and students and attend sporting events has created many memorable moments.

Q: Please list a teacher or staff member that has made a positive impact on you in this district and explain why.
A: Lucille Davis was my angel. She welcomed me to the district and guided me to take the Clerk Typist test. I will always be grateful to her. May she rest in peace.

Another is Dr. Rosa Lien. She inspired me with her perseverance and never give up despite difficulties. I learned a lot from my former coworker, Nellie Vazquez. Thank you to all of them.

Q: What’s your favorite event or tradition in our schools?
A: Pep Rally.

Q: Where did you grow up / go to school?
A: I grew up in El Salvador and came to the United States in 1994. I finished high school at Central Islip High School and graduated in 1997.

Q: Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV show? Tell us about them.
A: My favorite movie is The Notebook. I admired how the main character, Ryan Gosling, was supportive of his love interest and ensured that she never forgot what true love is.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote or motto you live by?
A: Psalm 23, verse 6: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Q: What are some activities you do in your spare time outside of school?
A: I enjoy cooking.

Q: If you could have dinner with any historical figure or celebrity, who would it be?
A: I would have dinner with my mom. I lost her almost three years ago after a fatal fall, and she also had early-stage Alzheimer's disease. She was both my mom and dad, and wherever she is, I hope she's proud of me.

Q: If you weren’t in education or the field you're in now, what career would you choose?
A: I would choose to become a doctor.

Q: What’s one thing on your bucket list (travel, skill, experience)?
A: I would love to travel to Italy, Portugal, France, and other beautiful places in Europe.