Musketeer Monday Part Two: Jasmine Guillen

Ms. Jasmine Guillen, a bilingual speech-language pathologist at O’Neill Elementary School, is one of this week’s featured Musketeers in the Musketeer Monday Spotlight.

Ms. Guillen joined the Central Islip School District in September 2022 as a full-time bilingual speech teacher, initially serving two schools. Shortly after beginning her first year, she was assigned full time to O’Neill Elementary School.

Describing her role, Ms. Guillen explained, “I have the honor of assessing students to identify their need for speech-language services. I sit in on Committee on Special Education (CSE) meetings with other educational professionals to discuss students’ needs and eligibility for special education services. I also provide treatment for students with a variety of speech and language impairments.”

Ms. Guillen works closely with teachers to ensure that skills developed in therapy carry over into the classroom. “I also collaborate with parents to make sure support is in place to get the best results for their child,” she added.

Ms. Guillen has become an integral part of the O’Neill school community. “This year, I had the pleasure of serving as a PTA delegate, drama club coordinator, and an active participant in many school-based committees and after-school activities,” she said.

The rewards of her work are deeply meaningful. “Watching my students progress, finding ways for them to successfully master their goals, and building strong relationships with them are what I find most rewarding,” Ms. Guillen shared.

She is also proud to introduce her family to the Central Islip community. “My family is very hardworking. Both of my parents immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic,” she said. “My mom was a home health care aide, my dad worked for North Shore Animal League, and I have one sister who is a teacher and another who is a teaching assistant.”

In her free time, Ms. Guillen enjoys traveling, catching sunsets, and spending time by the water. “I also love trying new foods, going to concerts, exploring new places, and simply spending time with family and friends,” she added.

Reflecting on her experience at O’Neill, Ms. Guillen shared, “I have the honor of working with the most hardworking, dedicated, kind, and talented individuals. It is truly inspiring how the O’Neill family comes together to get things done. Our mantra is ‘We can, we will’—and we do! My colleagues are not only supportive of students, but of each other.”

She also gave a special shoutout to her fellow speech therapist and colleague, Ms. Tara DeCola. “I have been blessed to have her as a district buddy, mentor, and classroom roommate. She has been such a great colleague, confidante, collaborator, and friend.”

O’Neill Elementary Principal Kristine LoCascio offered this testimonial for Ms. Guillen:

“Jasmine is our newest bilingual speech therapist and has made an immense impact at O’Neill Elementary. She is often seen working with students, supporting classroom teachers, or simply being an active part of the O’Neill community. Ms. Guillen is an integral member of our many volunteer committees and school functions. Whether cheering on students at the Homecoming Parade, helping them enjoy Trunk-or-Treat, or providing clues to famous Black History Month special guests, Ms. Guillen has truly embedded herself into the O’Neill and CI family—and we are thrilled to have her.”