In a proactive response to the renewed emphasis on standardized testing by universities, two seniors Zeidan Reza and Alan Conway, have launched a free tutoring service aimed at helping their peers excel academically. High School Tutors STL (HST STL) is a community-driven initiative designed to connect students seeking tutoring assistance with their classmates eager to help. This unique program not only supports academic achievement but fosters a collaborative environment among students.
“It started over the summer, like, towards the beginning,” Reza said. “We started noticing that a lot of kids were going to need help with tests, so we thought, how can we help our community?”
HST STL’s mission, as stated on their website, is clear: “Empowering students through personalized tutoring and community support, HS Tutors STL is dedicated to making quality education accessible to all for free.” The founders aim to create a space where every student can achieve their full potential, regardless of their financial situation or the challenges they face in traditional educational settings. This initiative acknowledges that many high school students are grappling with the pressures of standardized testing, particularly as ACT and SAT scores regain prominence in college admissions.
“The way we’re doing it can actually help some students,” Conway added. “Getting taught by peers can be less scary than being taught by an adult, and we understand what they’re going through.”
Currently, HST STL boasts a roster of 15 dedicated tutors across three school districts. This peer-led approach ensures a relatable learning experience, making it easier for students to connect with their tutors. The process is designed to be straightforward: students can browse tutor listings on the HST STL website, select a tutor based on their area of expertise, and book a session.
“We made the website, and then we just sat down one night and texted a whole bunch of people if they wanted to be our tutors,” Reza explained. “From there, we started advertising through various platforms, including NextDoor and school PTOs.”
The support from school counselors and teachers has been crucial in spreading the word about HST STL. With an emphasis on building community, the founders have reached out to local organizations to gain traction for their initiative. Their innovative approach not only provides academic support but also promotes a culture of mentorship among peers.
“Having student tutors allows us to understand the psychology of how students want to be taught,” Conway remarked. “We use that to make quality tutoring that meets their needs.”
With the school year in full swing, the founders are committed to growing HST STL and reaching more students in need of tutoring. They recognize that students may initially feel hesitant about receiving help from peers rather than traditional educators, but they believe that the peer-to-peer dynamic can alleviate some of that discomfort.
“I think it’s really important for us to create a supportive atmosphere,” Reza said. “Our tutors are not just teaching; they’re building connections and relationships with the students they work with.”
Despite the busy schedules of their senior year, Reza and Conway make time for HST STL, carving out hours to work on social media content and tutoring sessions. Their dedication is evident as they continue to expand their reach and impact.
“It’s a struggle, but we find short periods of time here and there to keep building our organization and help students,” Conway noted. “We want to keep growing High School Tutors STL even after we graduate.”
