Senior Spotlight: Katelyn Reyes

Welcome to the 2026 Senior Spotlight series! This weekly feature will run every week until Central Islip High School's graduation ceremonies. Enjoy!

Senior Spotlight: Katelyn Reyes

Activities, Clubs & Leadership Roles:
Central Islip Marching Band (Drum Major 1A, 9th-12th Grade); Stage Crew (Lead Sound Engineer, 9th-12th Grade); STEP @ NYIT (Vice President, 10th-12th Grade); Islip Town NAACP Youth Branch (Treasurer, 11th-12th Grade); Action Committee (11th-12th Grade); National Honor Society (10th-12th Grade); Computer Science Honor Society (Secretary, 12th Grade); Girls Varsity Tennis (9th-11th Grade); STEP @ Suffolk County Community College (10th-11th Grade).

Most Meaningful Activity:
The most meaningful activity to me is Marching Band. It was the first activity I participated in when I started high school, and it is the one that has helped turn me into the person I am today. I have found my own family through this marching band, and to have their support as Drum Major means the world to me.

The culture created by Mr. Muller, Mr. Ryan, and Mr. Pyle is unlike any other. It produces not only wonderful music that makes students like myself excited to play every day, but also allows meaningful bonds to form. If you had told me four years ago that I would meet so many of my closest friends here and learn so many life lessons while playing my instrument, I would never have believed you. Nonetheless, I am incredibly grateful to be part of this band.

Plans After Graduation:
I plan to attend college for Biomedical Engineering. I hope to pursue my master’s degree afterward and attend medical school upon its completion.

Future Career Goals:
Biomedical Engineering on the pre-med track, with the goal of pursuing a career in pediatric medicine.

Staff Member Recognition:
I would like to recognize Mr. Ryan, Mrs. Villatoro, and Mr. Ehrhardt. They have each played a vital role during my time in high school and have been tremendous supporters along the way.

My kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Murphy, is also someone I would like to recognize for instilling in me a love of learning that has carried me throughout my academic career.

Role Model / Inspiration:
My mom has inspired me the most. She has shown me the true meaning of hard work and dedication through all the sacrifices she has made so that I could pursue my goals. Even on the hardest days, she has always been able to lift my spirits and remind me that better days are ahead.

What Central Islip Means to Me:
Being part of Central Islip means being part of a diverse community that celebrates differences and encourages individuality. It is one of a kind in its resilience, perseverance, and drive to create positive change despite the misconceptions often associated with our community. Central Islip has allowed me to push beyond boundaries and challenge myself to succeed.

Proudest Accomplishment:
I am most proud of my roles as Drum Major in Marching Band and Lead Sound Engineer in Stage Crew. Through Marching Band, I have grown tremendously as a person and leader. Through Stage Crew, I have pushed myself to try new things and step outside of my comfort zone. Being involved in both activities has allowed me to develop beyond academics and discover passions that bring me joy.

Advice to Underclassmen:
While I heavily encourage underclassmen to challenge themselves academically and through extracurricular activities, it is equally important to take breaks and prioritize your well-being. High school goes by quickly, so work hard, stay involved, and remember to make time for yourself along the way.