Meet KYW's DNC Youth News Team
by Kristen Johanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Five middle school students will report stories this week from the Democratic National Convention, part of a mentoring program developed by the host committee and Philadelphia School District.
"You hear a lot about what the candidates think but I want to know what the delegates think," says Paige Cheatham, a Masterman School student. " I really hope to learn about how it all ends up working, kind of the organization that goes into the DNC."
She and fellow Masterman classmates Emily Lederer and Issak Popkin are budding journalists, excited for the real world opportunity as a journalist.
"I am more into the people aspect of the entire thing, and just how people are feeling when certain things are said," Emily explained.
"It's a way to see the convention, and experience that kind of thing first hand," Isaak added. "I went from knowing nothing about this, like a kid like 'Uh, parents talking about politics, it's boring.' But now, I can join their discussions."
Sophia Ortiz is a rising 6th grader at McCall Elementary School, and is the youngest member of the group. She is most looking forward to digging into real political issues.
"I really want to learn about funding for schools," Ortiz said. "I also wanted to learn about homelessness, because that was another topic that I thought was really important."
Girard Academic Music Program student Yi Huan Yang was one of 25 kids selected, and said she applied to the program to try something new. "I am a shy person and journalism is more open," Yang said.
"I am excited, but I am a little scared," Ortiz added.
Catch the team LIVE every day this week on Reporters Roundup, at 1230pm.