Zachary Stier

Paramus, NJ | 18

2016 Award Recipient

Zachary Stier loves being a math tutor. With every student who aces a test or who discovers a passion for learning, he is reminded of the impact individual attention and assistance has on a student’s performance. His passion for teaching and his ability to make math relevant in the real world resulted in a growing demand for his service. Once he entered high school, Zachary decided to launch YMath, a nonprofit organization that provides free one-on-one tutoring to students who are struggling in their math classes but are unable to pay for a private tutor. A team of more than 45 tutors works with students at two venues every week, the Bergen County Academies and the Garfield YMCA. Together, they have helped more than 200 students. Zachary’s peer-to-peer approach allows tutors to create personalized teaching plans tailored to meet every student’s individual needs and ensure they don’t fall behind. Those who are more advanced, work with tutors to discover new applications for their skills and to prepare for math leagues and competitions. Students can join the program at any point in the academic year and at any skill level. In 2014, Zachary was named a Youth Volunteer of the Year by the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance in recognition of YMath’s success. He plans to expand YMath to additional locations and identify students throughout the country who just need a little extra support to succeed.