West Islip High School art teacher Maria Cristantello was recently honored as a Bright Light award winner by the Association of Suffolk Supervisors for Educational Technology. Bright Lights are selected due to their exemplary integration of technology into their educational environment.

“One of our big philosophies in the district is preparing our students with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and habits that they need to be successful in life outside of school and that is really what embodies Ms. Cristantello,” said West Islip Union Free School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Paul Romanelli. “She’s inclusive of all of our students; she has innovative ideas in the classroom; and she allows students to work independently with that perfect level of support to develop those sorts of skills.”

Dr. Patrick Kiley-Rendon, West Islip’s executive director of technology and innovation, added, “Ms. Cristantello is one of our amazing art teachers at the high school, specializing in digital design and advertising. She also spearheaded a recent upgrade to the high school Mac lab and offers to help with countless building and district initiatives.”

Date Added: 2/7/2024