LAG Math & Science Updates

Dear LaGuardia Students and Families,

It is so exciting to begin another year at LaGuardia. No two years here are ever alike. Each one has its own personality, its own challenges, and its own surprises (at least that's what my students keep telling me, and they're usually right).

This fall I was reading the welcome letter from Mr. Sinacori, our AP of Dance, and I was struck by how many of his themes describe exactly how you get better at math and science too. How great is that? The same habits that make you great in drama, visual arts, vocal, instrumental, dance, and technical theatre are the ones that make you great in a lab or in front of a tough problem set: discipline, work ethic, and risk taking. As he put it:

"That trust is earned through discipline: showing up on time, in proper attire, ready to work before the first combination begins. It's shown in how you take a correction, how you treat the dancer next to you, and how you carry yourself when no one is watching, not just when everyone is. Joy and rigor go hand in hand. The freedom to really dance, to take risks, and to fall in love with this art form only exists inside structure. That structure is what we build together, and what we ask you to uphold."

I love that idea of joy and rigor going hand in hand, because joy is something we don't talk about enough in math and science. These subjects have a reputation for being difficult, and honestly, they can be. That's exactly why joy matters. When you can find something to enjoy in the struggle, like the moment a proof finally clicks, a lab result that suddenly makes sense, or a problem you couldn't solve on Monday that you can solve by Friday, the hard work becomes something you want to do instead of something you just have to get through. Hard work with no joy wears you down, and fun with no hard work doesn't get you very far. You need both.

As we settle into the year, I encourage every student (and family) to think about a few goals. If you're having trouble coming up with some, let me recommend a few.

The first is self-advocacy. Students who learn to speak up for themselves, whether that means asking a question in class, emailing a teacher, or simply saying "I don't understand this yet," truly thrive at LaGuardia and in the world beyond it. It's okay if you aren't there yet. Most people aren't when they walk in the door. I mention it because I've seen, year after year, how much it changes things for the students who develop it.

The second is knowing where to get help before you need it. Where will you go when you get stuck? How will you bounce back from a quiz that didn't go the way you hoped? Who in your class can you turn to? Having answers to those questions in September makes November a lot easier.

The third is responsibility. You are responsible for bringing what you need to class, whether that's a calculator, a textbook, or a charged Chromebook. Read the syllabus for each of your classes and know what you need to be successful. If executive functioning is hard for you (and it is for many of us, adults included), try making lists or building consistent morning and evening routines. Those aren't the only strategies. The important thing is to keep adjusting what isn't working until you find what does.

The fourth is discipline, which looks a little different in each subject. In math, discipline means regular practice, checking your work, and not leaning on shortcuts like AI or answer keys to pad a grade in place of actual learning. In science, it might mean doing math in science class (wait, there's math in science? 🤯) or writing out a clear Claim, Evidence, and Reasoning (wait, there's writing in science?). In every subject, slow and steady beats cramming.

And when you fall behind, because at some point almost everyone does, come to tutoring and let us help. Can't make it? Ask for a peer tutor. Peer tutor not working out? That happens. Reach out and we'll find you a better match. There is always a path forward, and we are here to help you find it.

Finally, think about who your trusted adult is at school, the person you'd go to when something feels off. If you're still figuring that out, my office is Room 527 and my door is always open. 🙂

Here's to another phenomenal year. There will be bumps along the way, but we'll get to June better, wiser, stronger, and hopefully with a little more joy in the hard stuff than when we started.

Warmly,
Trisha Bechard
Assistant Principal, Mathematics and Science

Need Help?

It's not uncommon to struggle in math and science. Know what to do and where to go when you don't know what to do!

All of these resources and more are located on the Math and Science page of the LAG website.

--> Sign up to become a Peer Tutor in math or science HERE

--> Sign up to receive a Peer Tutor in math or science HERE

--> Attend Math Lunch & Learn and After School Tutoring Sessions with Licensed Math Teachers
(See the Schedule Here)

The schedule changes so make sure to favorite this page!

--> Browse the self-study resources recommended by your teachers
SCIENCE
MATH

--> Make sure you are familiar with your teacher's policies and procedures by reading their syllabus!

SCIENCE
MATH

Meet the Math & Science Department

Isaac Auslander - AP Psychology

Mr. Auslander is in his fifth year of teaching and is thrilled to continue his journey at LaGuardia High School, where he is an alumnus of the Technical Theater department. He currently teaches AP Psychology, and holds a degree in Biology and Environmental Science from SUNY Binghamton. Mr. Auslander is excited to support students' learning and growth throughout the year.

Emily Baker - AP Statistics

Ms. Baker teaches AP Statistics and brings a strong academic background to her classroom. She is a graduate of Barnard College and the City College of New York. Outside of teaching, Ms. Baker enjoys solving crossword puzzles and playing the New York Times Spelling Bee. She is also the proud cat parent of George.

Trisha Bechard - AP of Math & Science

A native Texan, Ms. Bechard moved to New York City in 2007 after earning her B.S. in Biochemistry from the University of Texas. With over 15 years of experience teaching Biology and Chemistry at the Regents, AP, and IB levels, she brings both expertise and passion to the classroom. Her interest in educational leadership grew during her time as a department chair in Harlem, where she helped guide the school’s transition to the IB program. A former Master Teacher Fellow with Math for America for eight years, Ms. Bechard remains deeply committed to science and mathematics education and teacher leadership. She is excited to support the transition to NGSS in science and Illustrative Mathematics in math, helping to bring more coherence, accessibility, and depth to STEM instruction.

Jordan Boyce - Algebra 1 & 2

Mr. Boyce brings a rich background in the arts along with extensive teaching experience across diverse educational settings. He is excited to be a part of the LaGuardia community, where he aims to support students in their inquiries and witness their creativity in action. Mr. Boyce is looking forward to another great year of growth, exploration, and artistic expression.

Kylah Bruno - Algebra 1

Ms. Bruno-Herndon is excited to be teaching Algebra 1 at LaGuardia this year. She brings over ten years of experience in education, having worked as a teacher, instructional coach, and consultant. A native New Yorker, Ms. Bruno-Herndon was raised in Chelsea and now lives in the Bronx, and she is a proud LaG alumna (Art, Class of 2011). Outside of school, she shares her home with two orange cats, one small dog, and a very energetic three year old who just started 3K this year. She says it feels amazing to be back at LaG, and she is looking forward to getting to know all the students and families she'll be working with this year.

Donor's Choose

Emily Ceglia - Geometry & Personal Finance

Ms. Ceglia is excited to begin this new chapter at LaGuardia. She spent the previous nine years teaching Geometry in Queens, and holds an undergraduate degree from St. John's University along with an MS in Adolescent Math Education from SUNY Brockport. Outside of math, she enjoys attending the theater and hiking in national parks.

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Brenna Decker - Algebra 1

Ms. Decker is eagerly joining the LaGuardia community this year after five years teaching mathematics at a small Brooklyn public high school. She studied mathematics and education at SUNY Geneseo followed by Teachers College of Columbia University where she simultaneously developed a strong mathematical and pedagogical background. This year, she has been honored with her first Math for America master teacher fellowship. She is looking forward to working with her Algebra 1 students to build a strong foundation of skills and foster a sense of confidence and belonging in the field of mathematics!

Derek Dubossi - AP Environmental Science

Mr. Dubossi has been an Advanced Placement Environmental Science educator for 15 years. He earned a B.S. in atmospheric science from Purdue University and a M.A. in science education from Teachers College, Columbia University. He was a finalist for the PolarTrec program to the Arctic and was awarded a Funds for Teachers grant to study coral reef restoration in Bonaire. He has been a member of the Math for America master teacher fellowship for twelve years.

Jerry Gardner - Geometry & Algebra 2

Mr. Gardner has been teaching mathematics in New York City high schools for nearly 25 years, bringing deep experience and a genuine passion for education to his classroom. A graduate of Columbia University, he began his career as a New York City Teaching Fellow. A proud New Yorker through and through, he happily admits to loving the Knicks "in a wholly irrational way."

Isabelle Giannella - Biology

Ms. Giannella has been teaching in New York City since 2002 and is a Math for America Master Teacher II+ who currently teaches Regents Biology. Originally from Lexington, Kentucky, she studied at Centre College and Tufts University. She now lives in New Jersey with her husband, their 11-year-old twin daughters, and Rufus, the family's beloved "fur baby."

Donor's Choose

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Jocelyn Hall - AP Computer Science & Web Development

Ms. Hall has been teaching computer science at LaGuardia for eleven years. With a degree in computer science and prior experience as a consultant, she is fluent in many coding languages. Ms. Hall's goal is to make her classes a welcoming environment for all students curious about coding. In her free time, she loves to read and can often be found adding to her classroom library, which she built last year for students to borrow from. She is always happy to offer personalized book recommendations!

Donor's Choose 1

Donor's Choose 2

Faizah Khan - Biology & AP Psychology

Ms. Khan comes to LaGuardia from Buffalo, New York, where her love for biology, the Buffalo Bills, and Diet Coke was firmly established. She teaches Biology and AP Psychology and brings a genuine enthusiasm for creating classrooms where students feel free to be curious, ask questions, and make real connections between what they're learning and the world around them.

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Siji Kompanal - Lab Tech

With over 18 years of experience, Ms. Kompanal is a passionate lab specialist dedicated to making science engaging and accessible. She transforms labs into spaces of discovery through hands-on experiments that simplify complex concepts and spark curiosity. Known for her supportive approach, she helps students and teachers feel confident and safe while exploring science. Her love for botany and the outdoors often inspires nature-based lab activities, showing how science connects to the world around us. Outside the lab, Ms. Kompanal enjoys hiking and cycling, always exploring the natural world she loves to teach.

Hansen Law - AP Precalculus

Mr. Law, born in Brooklyn and raised in New Jersey, has been teaching at LaGuardia High School for 25 years. He has taught every math course through AP Precalculus and brings both experience and enthusiasm to the classroom. He holds an A.B. in History of Art & Architecture from Brown University, reflecting his deep appreciation for the arts. Now living in Manhattan, Mr. Law is a proud husband and father of three boys. Outside of school, he enjoys exploring the city’s food scene, visiting art museums, and cheering on the Mets.

Grace Lee - Algebra 2

Ms. Lee teaches Algebra 2 and has been an educator in New York City for 22 years. Born in Korea, she moved to New York at the age of nine and has called it home ever since. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Binghamton University, where she majored in Psychology and minored in Economics, and later completed a master’s degree in Education through the NYC Teaching Fellows program at St. John’s University. Ms. Lee currently lives on Long Island with her husband and their two teenage children. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends. She also plays a bit of piano, violin, and tennis.

Donor's Choose

Lindsay Lin - Algebra 2

Ms. Lin has been teaching math for 13 years, with the past 8 years spent at LaGuardia High School. Over the years, she has taught a variety of courses including Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus. No matter the subject, Ms. Lin brings clarity, structure, and a bit of humor to her classroom, helping students build confidence in their math skills. She earned her degree from Hunter College, where she majored in Mathematics and minored in Education. Her love for teaching is matched only by her love of good food and the rare chance to catch up on sleep—though, as she often says, she never gets quite enough of it.

Steve Lonegan - Chemistry & AP Chemistry

Mr. Lonegan lives in South Orange, NJ with his wife, their three children, and their dog. He grew up in Cold Spring Harbor, NY, where he first discovered his passion for science while working at a local genetics lab. He went on to study chemistry and American history at Dartmouth College and later earned his master’s degree in science education from CCNY. For the past 19 years, Mr. Lonegan finds true joy in the teaching of chemistry and is proud to be part of the wonderful community at LaGuardia.

Rachel Lytle - Chemistry

Ms. Lytle brings over 21 years of teaching experience and a background in biochemistry to LaGuardia High School, where she teaches chemistry and biology. With research experience in DNA repair, she encourages students to connect science with their artistic passions. A Queens resident and proud mom, she finds inspiration in NYC’s rich, diverse culture through its food. Her life is a blend of academic rigor and personal curiosity, a combination that deeply enriches her teaching and connection with her students.

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Antonietta McGoey - AP Psychology

Mrs. McGoey is thrilled to be teaching her 27th year at LaGuardia! A first-generation Sicilian-American, Mrs. McGoey holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry with minors in Biology and Fine Arts from Hofstra University, a Master of Arts degree in Math, Science, and Technology Education in Secondary Schools from Teachers College, Columbia University, and an Advanced Certificate in Administration and Supervision in Secondary Schools from Hunter College. Although Mrs. McGoey has her teaching license in Chemistry, she has taken 3 summer sessions of coursework in AP Psychology with the College Board and has been teaching the subject of psychology from a neuroscience perspective since 2014. When not teaching at LaGuardia, she is spending time with her husband and 2 children at their home in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Matteo Mesiouris - Chemistry

Mr. Mesiouris has been teaching Chemistry at LaGuardia for the past 13 years, bringing both passion and precision to the classroom. Known for his thoughtful approach to teaching, he takes great pride in the organization and structure of his courses, believing that a well-organized class is key to student success. Outside the lab, Mr. Mesiouris enjoys puzzles and games, always eager to challenge his mind and encourage creative problem-solving — a trait he also inspires in his students.

Marie Milach - Geometry

Ms. Milach has been teaching for over 16 years and is thrilled to be joining LaGuardia this year. Prior to this, she taught geometry for several years at West End Secondary School—her favorite course to teach. As a student, Ms. Milach had a deep love for music and was honored to play clarinet in the All-State Band during her senior year. She especially enjoys the connection between geometry and art and often spends time drawing geometric artwork. Outside the classroom, Ms. Milach has two children, ages 8 and 11, and enjoys hiking, visiting the beach, and attending Red Bulls soccer games with her family. She looks forward to meeting everyone and is excited to work with your children this year!

Amira Mostafa - Physics

Ms. Mostafa has over 20 years of experience teaching science and physics across three countries. She brings a global perspective and a deep commitment to student learning. Bilingual and culturally responsive, Amira values building strong connections with students and their families. She recently earned an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree and a STEM Leadership Certification from Columbia University and is currently completing her doctorate in Educational Leadership. Passionate about making physics engaging and accessible, Amira looks forward to inspiring students through creative exploration and contributing to the LaGuardia community.

Donor's Choose

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Faith Muschong - Algebra 1 & Geometry

Born and raised in Texas, Ms. Muschong majored in Musical Theatre at Texas State University before trading the Lone Star State for New York City 22 years ago. She went on to earn her Master of Education at City College and has spent the past 18 years as a special education teacher, working in every setting and content area in schools from the Bronx to Manhattan, including six years in the Consortium. Outside the classroom, Ms. Muschong is an avid international traveler and has visited 49 of the 50 states. Can you guess the one she's still missing?

Brian Myers - Geometry & Algebra 2

Mr. Brian Myers is in his first year teaching mathematics at LaGuardia. A native of Cincinnati, Mr. Myers moved to New York City, in 2022. He graduated from Ohio State University with degrees in mathematics and psychology. Coming to terms with the fact he could not see himself sitting behind a computer screen all day for the rest of his life, he returned to school, earning his masters in teaching from New York University. He is a die-hard Ohio State football fan, a former marathoner and a novice hiker.

Donor's Choose

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Mary O'Keefe - Chemistry

Ms. O'Keefe is in her 12th year of teaching at LaGuardia High School, where she currently teaches Chemistry and AP Psychology. A proud graduate of Fordham University, she studied chemistry and has brought her passion for science into the classroom ever since. Outside of teaching, she enjoys exploring museums, discovering new coffee shops, relaxing at the beach, running through the park, and cooking new recipes in the kitchen.

Amazon Wishlist

Ashrafur Rahman - Chemistry

Mr. Rahman is in his 12th year of teaching at LaGuardia High School and truly values being part of the school community. He holds a bachelor's degree in Chemistry and a master's degree in Science Education from The City College of New York. He is currently pursuing his School Building Leader (SBL) license at Bank Street College of Education. As a member of Math for America (MfA), Mr. Rahman is excited to bring fresh ideas and innovative approaches into his classroom. Outside of school, he enjoys playing cricket and watching soccer, and is an avid Manchester United fan.

Aram Rivera - Algebra 2 & AP Precalculus

Mr. Rivera is a veteran educator with over two decades of experience teaching in New York City public schools. A native of Brooklyn, he was born and raised in the Gowanus/Carroll Gardens neighborhood and graduated from the prestigious Brooklyn Technical High School. He earned his B.A. in Mathematics with a specialization in Computer Science from Purchase College, followed by an M.A. in Mathematics Education from Brooklyn College. His strong academic background and deep roots in the city have shaped his passion for teaching and commitment to student success. Now residing in Westchester, Mr. Rivera remains dedicated to fostering mathematical thinking and empowering the next generation of learners.

Zach Schinasi - Geometry & Calculus AB

Mr. Schinasi is excited to join LaGuardia this year, bringing three years of prior teaching experience with him. Outside of the classroom, he enjoys watching the Green Bay Packers, playing soccer, and spending time with his two cats.

Jory Stark - Personal Finance

Mr. Stark teaches Personal Finance at LaGuardia.

Trevor Stokes - Performance Physiology & Biology

Dr. Stokes began his career as a Ph.D. scientist and postdoc before switching paths to become a journalist in Alabama, eventually finding his calling in education through the NYC Teaching Fellows. Now in his 14th year with the DOE, he draws on his diverse background to make science engaging and relevant for his students. Outside the classroom, he's passionate about music, cycling, baking, and sustainable living—his Brooklyn home runs entirely on solar power. He shares his home with his partner, a music teacher, and their three cats. A dedicated reader, he enjoys Canadian women authors, Russian classics, and books on technology and society. Dr. Stokes is excited to be part of the LaGuardia community.

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Chris Tskakalakos - Calculus AB & Calculus BC

Mr. Tsakalakos is in his 17th year of teaching, with 15 of those years at LAG. He loves teaching AP Calculus AB and Geometry, bringing enthusiasm and expertise to his students every day. Before his teaching career, he played bass guitar in a band in Los Angeles. He holds a BA in Mathematics from UC Berkeley and an MA in Math Education from NYU. Mr. Tsakalakos is a Master Teacher in the highly selective Math for America program. He is also a huge sports fan, supporting the Jets, Bears, Knicks, Yankees, and Rangers. He enjoys traveling to Greece every summer with his wife and two kids to connect with his roots.

Denis Vinogradov - Physics & AP Physics

Mr. Vinogradov teaches Physics and AP Physics. He also leads our Science Olympiad Program. "Mr V" as we fondly refer to him is a graduate of Brooklyn Tech. We don't hold that against him though, since he ended up in the right place afterall.

Matthew Weitzman - Algebra 1, Biology & Physics

Mr. Weitzman officially joins LaGuardia this year as a Special Education Teacher supporting math and science, though in many ways he's coming home - he walked these halls as a vocal major from 2010 through 2014 before graduating with the class of 2014. After a strong finish to last year, this is his first full year on staff, and he makes the commute from Staten Island every morning because the connections he builds here — with students and colleagues alike - are genuinely what drives him. His love for the arts and for helping students find their footing in math and science is something he plans to bring to LaGuardia for a long time to come.

Nicole White - Chemistry

Ms. White, born and raised in New York, is proud to be starting her 15th year in education. With degrees from Purdue University and Lesley University, her academic experiences have deeply shaped her teaching philosophy and approach. Guided by the quote, “The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all,” she brings resilience, compassion, and dedication into her classroom each day. Ms. White is excited for a meaningful and inspiring school year and looks forward to working closely with students and families to help every learner thrive.

Emily Wood - Biology & AP Biology

Emily Wood has been teaching Biology since 2012 at Laguardia High School. She loves sharing her passion for science with her students. Outside the classroom, Emily loves spending time with her husband, 2 daughters and her mini bernedoodle puppy.

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Donor's Choose

Owen Zach - Physics & AP Psychology

This year marks Mr. Zach's seventh year in the classroom and his first teaching high school science. After six years teaching math at every level from pre-algebra through AP Calculus AB and BC, he is drawing on his background in psychology to teach AP Psychology, and on his math foundation and love of all things STEM to teach Regents Physics. Outside the classroom, Mr. Zach is a music fanatic and flow arts performer who cooks and bakes every chance he gets. He's thrilled to be joining the LaG community!

Save the Date: LaGuardia's First-Ever STEM Career Fair

Friday, November 13th, 3:45 - 5:45 pm, 5th Floor Cafeteria

Do you work in science, technology, engineering, or math? We'd love for you to be part of this new tradition. Parents in STEM fields are invited to meet with small groups of students to share what they do, how they got there, and what they wish they'd known at sixteen. No formal presentation needed, just your story and a willingness to answer questions. If you're interested, please sign up using this form. Our students would be so grateful to hear from you!

Calling All Student Volunteers!

Need community service hours this year? I'm looking for students who can volunteer during lunch or after school to help with projects including:

Decorating bulletin boards
Laminating for teachers
Organizing our book room

Please fill out this form HERE to sign up, and I'll reach out when I have a project available for you to consider.

Chemistry Regents Exam Appeals

I received many emails from students interested in reviewing their Chemistry Regents exam to consider a possible appeal in grade from the new exam.

All New York State students are eligible to appeal a lower score on a Regents Exam if they meet the following criteria:

have taken the Regents Exam under appeal at least two times;
have at least one score on the Regents Exam under appeal within the point range appropriate for the appeal:

1. All student appeal (Regents Score Range 60-64)

2. English language learners seeking appeals in ELA only (Regents Score Range 55-59)

3. Students with disabilities eligible for the Low Pass Safety Net Option

(Regents Score Range 52- 54)

have taken advantage of academic help provided by the school in the subject tested by the Regents Exam under appeal;
have passed the course for which the appeal is being sought; and
have been recommended for an exemption to the graduation requirement by the student’s teacher or Department chairperson in the subject of the Regents Exam under appeal.

You can review this guidance HERE.

If you would like to review your Chemistry exam for consideration of a possible appeal, sign up to retake the exam in January and/or sign up to attend Regents prep review on Wednesdays please complete this form. I will review exams with students to determine if there was a mistake in grading or a misapplication of the grading rubric. Please remember that an appeal may also result in a lower grade as the entire exam will be rescored.

Need Chemistry Regents Prep for a January Retake?

If you would like to sign up for Chemistry Regents Prep Help Sessions to take the Chemistry Regents exam in January - classes will be held afterschool from 3:45 pm - 4:45 pm on Wednesdays starting October 14th in Room 529.

Need Algebra 1 Regents Prep for a January Retake?

Come to room 425 on Wednesdays from 3:45 until 5:00 pm!

Opportunities in Math & Science

A sincere thank you to LAG vocal major Barbara Murusidze Kolashvili for helping with the Opportunities in Math and Science spreadsheet. Many hands make light work, and I couldn't be more grateful. If you're looking for Spring or Summer programs, not only in Math and Science but in other fields too, make sure to check out the list of programs HERE or on the Math and Science pages of the LaGuardia website. Check our spreadsheet often, as it's updated periodically. Below are some programs that are currently accepting applications.