Before sophomores Hyrije Trinaku, Arvind Dulal, Navaneeth Chandra, Neal Patel, Weston Koehler, and Shray Patel stepped in, Hempfield, a school district known for its conscious efforts to create a supportive learning environment, was missing one key component: free, flexible, and easily accessible tutoring. Luckily, the six sophomores recognized that need and took action. They founded Knight’s Knowledge, a nonprofit tutoring program designed to relieve students from the stress, uncertainty, and high costs often associated with traditional tutoring.

From sports to musicals, dance theater, band, and countless other activities, the wide range of opportunities at HHS encourages a highly involved student body. As a student-athlete who balances cross country, track, and basketball, Hyrije often struggled to find academic support that fit her demanding schedule. “My options were limited to expensive private tutors or a single, fixed after-school tutoring session on Wednesdays, which conflicted with my sports,” she explains. This challenge inspired her to create the organization with the help of her peers.

“Our goal is to establish an accessible tutoring resource by offering in-school tutoring on most WIN days,”  the founders share. The next step in supporting this effort is recruiting students. Academically inclined students interested in becoming tutors—as well as those seeking extra help—can fill out an interest form posted on Schoology. Potential tutors will be asked to describe why the program matters to them and explain their qualifications.

Looking ahead, the founders of Knight’s Knowledge are looking to include online sessions in addition to in-person services. With dedicated student volunteers and a shared passion for learning, Hyrije and her peers believe the program will serve as a meaningful step toward a more supportive academic environment at HHS.