Musketeer Monday Part Two: Marianne Reynolds

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 Two: Marianne Reynolds, Teacher, Reed Middle School

Q: School / Grade / Subject(s) Taught / Area of Work
A: 7th and 8th grade Resource Room at Reed Middle School.

Q: How many years of experience in education / teaching / current field do you have?
A: I have 31 years of experience in the education field.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education (or your current field)?
A: My college roommate was an education major, and I found her classes and assignments far more interesting than my own. By the end of the fall semester, I changed my major from International Business to Special Education.

Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of this school/district community?
A: Central Islip is home for me—it keeps me connected to my past and has helped shape my future.

Q: What do you consider the most rewarding part of your job?
A: The most rewarding part of my job is truly the people I have been blessed to meet over the years. Students, colleagues, and former classmates have all contributed to making my career meaningful.

Q: What are a few memorable moments you’ve had with students or colleagues?
A: The moments that stand out most are the “aha” moments when students finally understand something challenging, the honest conversations about life shared with colleagues over lunch, and the expressions of gratitude I have received from students over the years.

Q: Please list a teacher or staff member that has made a positive impact on you in this district and explain why.
A: Dr. Mildred Maiello was one of the most impactful individuals I have encountered in my career. She exemplified strength of character and led Mulvey with poise and grace, even in the face of adversity. I was incredibly fortunate to have her as a shining example of what an exceptional educator and leader should be. To this day, when the “old school” Mulvey tribe gathers in the bistro, we reminisce about her and the profound, positive impact she had on both the students of Mulvey and on each of us.

Q: What’s your favorite event or tradition in our schools?
A: My favorite event is the Senior Walk Through. I love the nostalgia and energy it brings to the building.

Q: Where did you grow up / go to school?
A: I grew up right here in Central Islip and am a proud member of the Class of ’86.

Q: Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV show? Tell us about them.
A: As an avid reader, it’s hard to choose just one favorite book. When it comes to movies, I enjoy a good Godfather movie marathon.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote or motto you live by?
A: “If it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be.” Despite our best efforts, things don’t always work out as planned, but I believe they ultimately unfold as they are meant to.

Q: What are some activities you do in your spare time outside of school?
A: I love spending time with family and friends, getting lost in a good book, and traveling to new places.

Q: If you could have dinner with any historical figure or celebrity, who would it be?
A: After touring Paris with my daughter this summer, I became intrigued by the life of Marie Antoinette. Having afternoon tea with her at Versailles would certainly be an interesting experience.

Q: If you weren’t in education or the field you're in now, what career would you choose?
A: It’s difficult to imagine not being an educator after so many years, but I think a career in law would be my next choice.

Q: What’s one thing on your bucket list (travel, skill, experience)?
A: My bucket list continues to grow as I get closer to retirement, but one experience high on that list is taking a cruise around the world.