Science

Caroline Ozdemir is a proud alumna, class of 2014.  She continued her education in the CUNY network, where she earned bachelors degrees in both Classical Studies and Geology.  Prior to joining Preston’s faculty, she taught middle school math and science in the Archdiocese of NY.  During that time, she pursued an MA in Earth Science Education (grades 7-12) and NYS teacher certification.  She jumped at the opportunity to join Preston’s science department, as her love for the subject was fostered within these very walls.  She brings her passion and enthusiasm to the newest class of Panthers, to whom she teaches earth science.

Ms. Lauren Van Sicklin has a BS in Biology from Delaware Valley University and a MS in Biology from Western Kentucky University. She earned her Master's degree while living and serving in Madagascar as an environment and agriculture volunteer for the United States Peace Corps. Her love of teaching began as a graduate student where she taught Biology laboratory courses to college students. After graduation, she decided to move back to her home state of New York and pursue teaching full time.

Ms. Van Sicklin has taught many classes at Preston including biology and AP biology and serves as the mentor for STEM club. 

Edgar Martinez studied civil engineering at Columbia University.  His concentration in Construction Management allowed him to work on several NYDEP multi-million dollar projects throughout NYC. Before coming to Preston High School, he also worked for several engineering firms, including Skanska USA and John P. Picone, Inc., among others. He is an E.I.T. in New York State.

His strong passion for engineering not only enabled him to effectively engage with students in Physics and various math courses but also led to his tenure as the chairperson of both the Science and Math departments in recent years. Currently, he holds the position of Assistant Principal of Student Life while simultaneously teaching Physics.

Patricia Muldoon studied Science and Mathematics at the National University of Ireland, Galway.  After graduating with a BS in Biochemistry in 2000, she knew that teaching was her passion and moved on to pursue a Masters Degree in Education (also from NUIG), with a concentration in both Science and Mathematics.  Mrs. Muldoon’s first teaching position was in 2001 in a community school located in an underprivileged section of Dublin, Ireland.  She remained in this school until 2004 when she decided to move to the United States.

Since her arrival at Preston she has taught a vast variety of courses including Algebra 1, Geometry, Financial Algebra, Pre-calculus, Physics, Earth Science, Chemistry, Living Environment, and Anatomy & Physiology.

“Life is like a math equation.  In order to gain the most, you have to know how to convert the negatives into positives." -- Anonymous