Student Run Businesses Thrive at GS
by Reese Price
From painting banners to planting flowers, GS students are turning their passions into businesses that brighten the community.
Vento’s Landscaping, run by junior Luca Vento and senior Luke Dieter, began in 2021 and expanded in 2023 when the two officially partnered. They specialize in landscaping services that help homeowners across Westmoreland County maintain and improve the look of their yards through the warmer months.
Senior Luke Dieter and Junior Luca Vento pose in front of their equipment for an advertisement.
Photo Courtesy: Luke Dieter
“The most rewarding part about my job is being able to satisfy customers and give them the best quality work,” Vento said.
During the winter they also offer snow plowing, making their business a year-round service. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality work has made them a popular choice in the community.
“Being able to snow plow this year was great for our business,” Dieter said.
Another successful business is Pitty Paints, run by junior Reese Pittler. She creates banners that add a colorful and creative touch to all occasions. She paints banners for school events, partiesand other celebrations for people in the community.
“I love being able to be a part of celebrations within my community and helping to make them extra special,” Pittler said.
A birthday banner ready to be hung up for a party made by junior Reese Pittler.
Photo Courtesy: Reese Pittler
Her artistic talent has allowed her to build a reputation for designing well liked personalized decorations for a wide variety of events.
“I typically come up with my designs on my own after getting a description of the event and themes from my customers,” she said.
Photography has also made an impact on GS students with Ferace Photography. Junior Bryce Ferace specializes in senior portraits, sports, product photography and much more.
“Photography gives me the opportunity to meet new people and build connections with individuals, businesses and organizations,” he said. “I also get to build trust, work together and be part of someone’s story or event.”
Junior Bryce Ferace poses for a headshot to use for his business.
Photo Courtesy: Bryce Ferace
The business focuses on providing high quality photos that capture memories for clients and the community.
“Students are never too young to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and take initiative,” Business Teacher Mr. Tyler Brinton said. “I hope our business classes at GS continue to inspire more students to start thinking seriously about their futures while still in high school.”
Crystal View Window Cleaning is managed by junior Ace Klingensmith, sophomore Nathan Ross and sophomore Hayden Henry. Their business keeps homes sparkling clean, offering window cleaning services around the GS community.
Sophomore Hayden Henry cleaning windows on the side of a building.
Photo Courtesy: Ace Kligensmith
“My friends and I have worked very hard to make this business and to be successful together,” Klingensmith said.
These student run businesses reflect the creativity, work ethic and ambition of GS students. Each business not only provides service to the school and community, but also gives the students hands on experiences in entrepreneurship.
“Starting a business at a young age teaches lessons that last a lifetime, even for students who don’t pursue business careers,” Mr. Brinton said. “Entrepreneurship builds perseverance, a growth mindset and other traits that transfer to any field.”
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