Sawyer partners with hundreds of educators who are stars in their communities. From inspiring class content to engaging teaching styles, these educators are known for their enriching activities that empower both children and parents alike.

We got the opportunity to chat with Laura Hart the CEO of Robofun, which offers dynamic STEM workshops for children in NYC using cutting edge technologies, to learn more about how she started her business and how Sawyer helps her business grow.

Thank you for taking the time to chat with us! I’d love to hear a bit more about you and why you started your business.

I launched my business fueled by my love of developing curriculum as a school computer teacher at The Buckley School for 14 years and the Little Red Schoolhouse for 2 years. I saw a great opportunity to touch the lives of even more children. My aim has always been to broaden the reach of my teaching, captivating a wider audience and providing dynamic, enriching experiences that inspire children to explore and develop their skills, igniting their passion for learning.

Can you describe an inspiring moment you’ve had as an educator?  

I was beta testing a new curriculum with a group of students and they were thrilled to be part of this process and eagerly shared their opinions to help make the curriculum stronger and more exciting. Their enthusiasm and active participation was truly inspiring.

What’s the most rewarding thing about teaching children?  

The most rewarding aspect of teaching children is witnessing their excitement and deep connection to learning. I remember receiving a call from a parent on a Saturday morning after their child had attended a week of camp. Their child had been up since 6:30 a.m., eagerly working on their coding project. It was incredibly gratifying to know that the impact of what we do in the Robofun studio extends beyond the classroom and becomes a meaningful part of their lives.

What’s one time a child surprised you and made your day? 

It was a bittersweet moment. I heard howls from the reception area at the end of a class and rushed in to find a little boy sobbing because he didn’t want to go home. He was being comforted by his mom, and I realized how powerful learning can be if children have ownership and deeply enjoy what they are doing. 

On a similar note, what’s the funniest thing a child has done in your class? 

During the summer, we have Wacky Wednesday, where both kids and staff dress up according to the Robofun theme of the week. Some of the costumes are absolutely incredible and always bring a lot of laughter and fun to the day!

Why is after school/extracurricular enrichment and camp so important for children?  

After school programs, extracurricular activities, and camps are game-changers for kids! They're the perfect playground for discovering new passions, sparking creativity, and making friends. In these fun, relaxed environments, children not only enjoy themselves but also master crucial life skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience. These experiences are more than just fun—they're building blocks for life!

How do you think children can discover their passions when they’re not in school or your programs?   

Children can uncover their passions outside traditional settings that spark their interest. Encouraging curiosity, experimentation, and creative freedom helps them discover what truly excites them.

What is your favorite Sawyer feature? 

The feature that allows parents to write reviews and make them accessible to other parents is great!

What's one trick you learned from another educator that you still practice? 

One technique learned from another teacher is "Ask three before me." I encourage students to ask for help from three classmates before coming to me. This helps build a learning community that emphasizes connection, communication, and teamwork.

Have you discovered new customers on the Sawyer Marketplace? 

Yes, we've definitely discovered new customers through the Sawyer Marketplace! It's an excellent feature.

How do you balance your time between running your business (from an operational perspective) and teaching/connecting with parents and students? 

I work on dedicating specific blocks of time for administrative tasks and operation and  I allocate ample time for teaching, engaging with students, and maintaining open communication with parents. 

How has Sawyer helped your business? 

We’re happy campers with Sawyer! It simplifies administrative tasks and boosts our reach. Its user-friendly platform makes managing registrations, schedules, and payments a breeze, connecting us with new customers and strengthening our community. Plus, features like parent reviews have increased our visibility and credibility, fueling our growth and success.