High school entrepreneurs lead summer classes for younger students

For most children, COVID-19 precautions mean this will be a summer without summer camps, at least not in the traditional sense.

Brian Zhou, a rising sophomore at Durham Academy and his friend, Jean Chang, a rising senior at Panther Creek High School, decided to help fill that gap by co-founding "Initiative Summer Programs" to provide online lessons. They and their friends will share their expertise with children just a few years younger.

"We always wanted to go to summer camps," said Zhou, remembering his past summer experiences.

"I didn’t really have much to do during COVID because we’re all stuck at home," said Chang. That’s why she and Zhou decided to turn their disappointment into something better.

They are signing up participants for two one-week sessions. Chang will teach grammar skills and Zhou will give students the chance to use that knowledge as he teaches public speaking.

Two other friends are on board to offer help with August courses. Those include music theory by Zebee Jewell-Alibhai. He says his primary interest is in jazz. "I’ve really become fascinated with the fundamentals behind music," he said.

Sarayu Kondaveeti will teach math sessions during the August program.

"I know that a lot of kids need help in math." Kondaveeti said. "I think I can effectively teach them and provide a more unique learning experience."

Zhou says public speaking is a skill that should be learned earlier in life than when it is typically offered in high school and college. "Being comfortable with your voice and talking to different people is really an important skill," said Zhou.

Zhou and Chang feel confident about taking the lead in their venture, even though their participants are just a few years younger than them.

Zhou has sought out public speaking classes as well as opportunities to speak before large groups. "I found that I really enjoyed it because it gave me an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and try something new," he said.

Course fees range from $49 to $99. The co-founders advertise on their site that all proceeds will go to fight COVID-19, but they have not yet determined the best charitable organization to receive that money.