For longtime friends Chris and Aza, leading Club Z! Tutoring of Tucson isn’t just a business venture, it’s a continuation of a 30-year partnership built on trust, teamwork, and shared values. The two first met in middle school, bonded over basketball, and went on to play together through high school and beyond. Decades later, they have channeled that same spirit of collaboration and discipline into helping students and families across Tucson succeed. 

Partnership Rooted in Responsiveness 

Chris and Aza’s dynamic partnership works because of mutual trust and constant communication. Rather than holding formal meetings, they stay in contact daily, sharing updates, solving problems, and relaying information to tutors, families, and team members as situations evolve. 

They understand that in education, time is often of the essence. Whether it’s a tutor scheduling change, a family inquiry, or a student concern, they pride themselves on being responsive and solution-oriented. Their ability to make quick, informed decisions ensures that students and families always feel supported and that operations continue smoothly. 

The Right Match, Every Time 

At the heart of their work is a thoughtful and experience-based approach to learning. Chris and Aza don’t subscribe to the idea that every student learns in a completely unique way. Instead, they see learning as existing on a spectrum of styles where patterns emerge, and experience helps guide effective matching. 

Their job is to identify where a student falls on that spectrum and pair them with a tutor who understands and complements that learning style. This pragmatic approach allows them to place students with tutors who not only fit academically, but who can provide the right structure, encouragement, and accountability. Combined with strong follow-up and open communication with families, their system consistently delivers results that help students grow in both skill and confidence. 

Balancing Student and Tutor Success 

Chris and Aza know that thriving students depend on supported tutors. Their team includes college students, young professionals, and retired educators, each with their own motivations and strengths. By maintaining open communication and providing the flexibility tutors need, they ensure that the environment remains positive and productive for everyone involved. 

That balance between student success and tutor satisfaction has become a defining feature of their leadership. For Aza, the parallels to his professional background in service and management are clear: when you take care of your people, they take care of your clients. 

Lessons in Leadership and Growth 

Over the years, Chris and Aza have learned that while technology, curriculum, and testing evolve, the fundamental needs of students remain the same. Every learner benefits from structure, encouragement, and someone who believes in their potential. 

Their approach is rooted in practicality and empathy, staying attuned to the needs of families while never losing sight of what truly drives progress. They know that academic improvement is only part of the equation; often, the real transformation happens when stress is reduced, routines are established, and confidence returns to the household. 

As Chris puts it, when tutoring works, it doesn’t just change grades; it changes the atmosphere in the entire home. 

Looking Ahead 

The future of Club Z! Tutoring in Tucson is focused on sustainable growth and deeper community connection. Chris and Aza plan to expand their client base to the point where they can employ dedicated, full-time support staff to manage daily operations. 

They are also exploring new marketing modalities and community outreach initiatives to reach more families across Tucson, ensuring that more students have access to the individualized academic support they need. Whether through local partnerships, school connections, or creative digital outreach, their goal is to make Club Z! as visible and accessible as possible to families who can benefit from it. 

More Than Tutoring — A Bridge to Success 

For Chris and Aza, Club Z! Tutoring represents more than just academic assistance; it’s a bridge between goals and achievement, between frustration and confidence. 

Their shared philosophy is simple yet powerful: when students are supported, families thrive, and when families thrive, communities grow stronger. 

Through their thoughtful leadership, they have helped many Tucson-area families navigate academic challenges with compassion, structure, and professionalism. And just as they once relied on teamwork on the basketball court, Chris and Aza now bring that same commitment to collaboration and perseverance to every student’s success story. 

What advice would you give someone considering becoming a Club Z! Director? 

Do your homework and know your community. Understand where families need support, where tutors live, and how local schools operate. Success comes from building genuine relationships and aligning your services with the needs of your market. If you’re committed to helping students succeed, this is an incredibly rewarding business.