Grade 7 Students Present Shark Tank Stars During Entrepreneurial Presentations

This week, a group of grade 7 students stepped into the entrepreneurial spotlight, presenting their innovative business ideas to two seasoned entrepreneurs and former Shark Tank contestants. Manya Clark, cofounder of Tandm Surf, and Kressa Peterson, inventor of the Shower Toga, visited the campus as guest mentors for the school’s signature “Tartan Tank” program.

The event, modeled after the popular television show Shark Tank, provided grade 7 students a platform to pitch product ideas developed over several weeks of research, collaboration, and design thinking. From sustainable consumer goods to tech-based solutions, each student team identified a problem and proposed a market-ready innovation to address it.

Ms. Clark and Ms. Peterson offered real-world feedback and shared valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. Their presence helped bring the classroom project to life and inspired students to refine their business strategies.

“It’s incredible to see such young minds already thinking like entrepreneurs,” said Ms. Peterson, praising the students' creativity and commitment.

Middle School science teacher Eric Harrington says the experience is designed to build critical thinking, communication skills, and confidence—key tools for any future innovator.

“Our students walked away inspired and empowered,” Mr. Harrington said. “We are grateful for the insight from Ms. Clark and Ms. Peterson. Their guidance helped students think deeper about product development, branding, customer needs, and the power of persistence.”