Real-World Learning in Action as Students Pitch Big Ideas to Local Entrepreneurs
On Monday, April 28, 2025, the boardroom of the Don Ryan Center for Innovation was buzzing with big ideas, bold pitches, and the unmistakable energy of high school students putting weeks of hard work to the test. Students from HHCA’s Honors and CP Economics classes, led by Matt Smith, took center stage as they participated in the school’s fourth annual "Shark Tank" Project Presentation—a signature experience that blends economics, entrepreneurship, and real-world problem-solving.
Making its sixth appearance at the Don Ryan Center this year, the HHCA Shark Tank event has become a hallmark of HHCA’s inquiry-based approach to learning and a powerful way for students to connect classroom concepts with real-world applications. Over the past six weeks, juniors and seniors have been working in teams to identify everyday problems and design innovative products or services that could solve them.
This year’s pitches ranged from a vending machine that serves cereal to online tools designed to protect families’ digital presence—each idea rooted in research, strategic thinking, and creativity.
But the challenge didn’t stop at just developing a product. Students had to craft a compelling marketing strategy, determine their factors of production, and prepare to field questions from a panel of seasoned local entrepreneurs and community partners - including Dan Wood, Lisa Sulka, David Nelems, and Paul Arvantides—leaders who know firsthand what it takes to launch and grow a business.
This project is a culmination of the kind of student-centered, real-world learning we value at HHCA,” said Mr. Smith. “Our students are asked not just to dream up ideas, but to defend them. They have to think critically, communicate clearly, and pivot when they hit roadblocks—just like entrepreneurs in the real world.
Mr. Matt Smith, HHCA History Mentor
The feedback from the panel was encouraging, constructive, and energizing for the students, many of whom will soon be graduating and heading off to college and beyond. The opportunity to stand before professionals who have successfully launched businesses—and to hold their own in a Q&A session—was both challenging and inspiring.
One judge noted, “These students are doing what many adults are still learning to do—pitch an idea with confidence, answer tough questions, and think like innovators. It’s exciting to see this level of talent and creativity coming out of a high school classroom.”
As they wrapped up their final presentations, students walked away not just with a grade, but also with valuable feedback, experience under pressure, and a taste of what it takes to turn an idea into action.
Congratulations to all of our HHCA “Sharks”—you impressed, inspired, and showed what it means to be thoughtful, solution-minded leaders.