About Us
SpecialSTAR is a non-profit organization aimed towards providing kids with special needs opportunities to engage in activities of science, technology, art, and robotics in an environment suited for them, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills through fun learning experiences and a welcoming environment.
We also have goals to raise awareness about mental health in our community, uplift those who are vulnerable, and connect with alternative resources to help those who are struggling.
We also have goals to raise awareness about mental health in our community, uplift those who are vulnerable, and connect with alternative resources to help those who are struggling.
Our Team
Rocco Zhang
Founder / President
Rocco Zhang is a senior at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Tech. He found his passion for STEM from his experience in Science Olympiad in middle school, and he continued his journey by joining an FTC robotics team in high school. As an Eagle Scout, Rocco enjoys using his extensive experience to help others learn and enjoy STEM.
Founder StoryWith his extensive experience as a swimmer, Rocco volunteered as an assistant instructor for the Fairfax County Adapted Aquatics program his freshman year and was introduced to a new perspective on neurodivergency. After realizing the limited programs available for these kids are primarily focused on physical health, he decided to found this organization to bring his knowledge and fun experiences in STEM and Art to others.
Founder StoryWith his extensive experience as a swimmer, Rocco volunteered as an assistant instructor for the Fairfax County Adapted Aquatics program his freshman year and was introduced to a new perspective on neurodivergency. After realizing the limited programs available for these kids are primarily focused on physical health, he decided to found this organization to bring his knowledge and fun experiences in STEM and Art to others.
Ariana Mamedova
Instructor, Art Program Director
Ariana is a sophomore student at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Tech. At school, she is concentrated in biotechnology, biochemistry, and ecology studies. She is also ranked Eagle Scout; and actively advocates for environmental agenda. She plays golf and is a varsity team player at school. Outside the school, she loves art and has received recognition in the congressional Art Competition. She is fluent in several foreign languages and is an excellent communicator.
Eric Xie
Instructor, STEM Program Director
Eric is a junior student at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Tech. Eric is enthusiastic about physics and is a USA Physics Olympiad medalist. At school, he is co-captain of the physics team and math tutor in the peer tutoring program. He is also a devoted Boy Scout, who is working toward his Eagle rank. Eric loves teaching and working to serve the community.
Miya Sun
Healthy Mind Program Director
Miya Sun is a senior student at the Charter School of Wilmington. She is the president of the school student government, heavily involved in leading many community service projects and school spirit activities. At school, she is particularly interested in biology and psychology. She is also a four-year varsity rower in the crew team. In her free time, she enjoyed painting, dancing, and music. With her strong interest in psychology, Miya is a vigorous advocator for mental health in the community, especially for teens, leading many related initiatives.
Stephanie Stolfa
Instructor
Stephanie is a sophomore student at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Tech. Stephanie plays the violin and double bass in the school orchestra and helped organize the annual Viennese Ball. She loves music and has worked as a music tutor for children. She is also heavily involved in the school math team and coding club. She is great at communication and project management and has a passion for education.
Joanna Chen
Instructor
Joanna (right) is a junior student at Langley High School. Joanna's favorite subject in school is biology. She is also a varsity volleyball player. She also loves to work with children.
Patricia Chang
Instructor
Patricia is a junior student at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Tech. Patricia has a strong interest in biology and neuroscience. She is very involved in the Anatomy Club and Microbiology Club in school and has performed related scientific research. She has a passion for STEM and is great at creating fun activities for children.
Allison
Instructor
Allison (left) is a junior student at Langley High School.
