October 9, 2026 Submitted by By Community Editor Erin Elefante
Hingham High School teacher Joe Tarantello is teaching a new and very in-demand class this year – AP Business with Personal Finance, which includes a core component similar to the ABC show Shark Tank. Students will develop business ideas and create pitches for their product or service, which they will present to a panel of “investors” or “sharks” who will give feedback and guidance.
Students have already begun working on their ideas, which include products such as shoes and lacrosse equipment, apps, and businesses like car detailing and party planning. Tarantello is impressed with the enthusiasm of the students and reminds them to focus on the problem they are trying to solve and to keep their plans simple, doable, realistic, and local to have the most success.
Noting that with the increase in technology it’s more difficult to get kids to talk and communicate, Tarantello says, “A big element of this class is the chance to practice public speaking and communication – skills that are applicable in any situation.” He also explains that bringing in outside experts raises the stakes and makes it a more professional experience.
This course is part of an impressive group of business classes offered at the high school, including accounting, personal finance, marketing, and sports marketing classes. The AP class curriculum was released by the College Board in 2026, and the demand was high, with 48 juniors and seniors taking the class, and more than 80 who requested it. At the end of the year, students will take an AP Exam on the curriculum with the chance to earn college credit.
Tarantello is hoping to find community members who have a background in business, finance, entrepreneurial endeavors, or just those willing to listen thoughtfully and give feedback and guidance. The “sharks” would be needed in November, and then again in February or March for a checkpoint, and finally in early April for final pitches.
Interested parties can email Tarantello at jtarantello@hinghamschools.org for more information.
