Musketeer Monday Part Two: Sue Ann Hamel

Introducing Ms. Sue Ann Hamel in this week's Musketeer Monday Spotlight! Ms. Hamel is a teacher aide at the Chrome Depot in Ralph G. Reed Middle School. She began her career in the Central Islip School District in 2001 in the Central Islip High School kitchen before accepting assignments in the Mulvey Elementary School and Early Childhood Center kitchens. She later worked as a classroom aide at Cordello Elementary School before joining Reed Middle School.

Ms. Hamel (or Ms. Sue, as she is affectionately called by her students) has been a mainstay at Reed Middle School for nearly 10 years. She initially served as a one-on-one aide until just a few years ago when, as she explains, "Mr. Coggiano asked me about two years ago to move into a new area—the Chrome Depot."

Ms. Hamel's duties and responsibilities in the Chrome Depot are as numerous as they are varied. "At the Chrome Depot, I see many students who are experiencing minor problems with their devices—whether they are frozen, broken, or lost. I work to get the students' devices back to them the same day so they can complete their assignments. I also collaborate with administrators to ensure all students have working Chromebooks during testing time."

The rewards of her job are incredibly fulfilling, as Ms. Hamel describes: "When students come to me upset because their Chromebook isn't working and leave the Chrome Depot with smiles on their faces—most of the time—knowing their devices are back up and running so they can complete their work, that's the best part of my job."

When she's not working, Ms. Hamel enjoys spending time with her husband, Larry. Married for 36 years, the Hamels bought their first home in College Woods in 1992. Their children attended Cordello Elementary School. Eleven years later, they bought a home in Islip Terrace, where they still reside.

Ms. Hamel and her husband love spending time with their grandchildren—Anthony, 5; Madison, 3; and Nolan, 2. "We are fortunate to be able to spend most of our spare time hanging out with our three grandchildren," Ms. Hamel said, adding that they are expecting their fourth grandchild in April. She also enjoys seeing off-Broadway shows with her husband and relaxing at home.

"I'm happy to be a part of the Reed family, where we all work together for the students and staff alike," Ms. Hamel noted. "We celebrate the good times together, and we help each other through the tough times. They are my extended family. I have made many new friends during my years in the Central Islip School District, as well as a few close friends that I know will remain in my life long after I retire."

Reed Middle School Principal Anthony Coggiano praised Ms. Hamel’s dedication and work ethic. "Ms. Hamel is a highly valued member of the Reed family. Whether she's managing student Chromebooks or planning special events, Ms. Hamel truly goes above and beyond each and every day."