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
Rocco Zhang is a freshman at Princeton University. 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.
Edward Guo
President
Edward is a senior student at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Tech. Edward is enthusiastic about Math, Physics, and Coding, winning awards in national olympiads. He offers his academic skills to help younger students or those who need extra support. Outside of school, he is a varsity rower and ice hockey player. Edward is an advocate for STEM in the community, especially for teens.
Yeeyung Li
STEM Program Director
Yeeyung is a sophomore student at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, and an instructor at SpecialSTAR. Yeeyung is passionate about math, computer science, and economics, having participated in high school competitions for all three subjects. Yeeyung also runs as a sprinter for both his club and the TJ Varsity Track Team. Yeeyung is committed to assisting other students in their STEM journeys, and he aspires to foster a love for STEM in the community.
Alice Guo
Publicist
Alice is a junior student at Langley High School. She is a member of the Langley Volleyball Team. In her free time she enjoys volunteering, hiking, and spending time with friends. She is great at communication and project management and has a passion for education. She also loves to work with children.
Clare Raso
Vice President
Clare is a senior at Langley High School. She is a member of the Langley Varsity Field Hockey Team, and an Eagle Scout. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, reading, and tutoring her peers. Clare loves to teach young children and is always looking for ways to give back to her community, especially through STEM-related activities and creating engaging learning experiences that help spark curiosity in students.
Eric Xie
Instructor
Eric is a senior student at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Eric is in charge the organization, dedicated to teaching STEM to children with special needs through hands-on robotics projects. He is enthusiastic about physics and is a USA Physics Olympiad Team member. 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.
Michael Raso
Instructor
Michael is a senior at Langley High School. He is a member of Langley marching band and the swimming team, and he is also an Eagle Scout. In his free time, he enjoys backpacking, hiking, and reading. Michael has a passion for teaching and looks for ways to give back to his community.
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.
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.
