Two students from Jena Kleindl’s Video Production class had the opportunity to interview Governor JB Pritzker at the Savencia Cheese expansion in Lena last month.
Senior Steven Van and Junior Kamryn Bradbury attended to ask questions during the event.
Bradbury asked a question about the Rockford Teachers’ Union authorizing a strike, and Van asked a question about increasing economic developments in Stephenson and Jo Davis Counties.
“I feel very honored,” said Van, “It was a fun and exciting experience to say the least; regardless of your political beliefs, the opportunity to meet and talk to a state governor was very valuable to me.”
The students attended the event with one camera to take photos for Freeport High School’s yearbook, and another camera to record the event and their interviews for Video Production.
“I feel very lucky to have a teacher that see’s our strengths and really wants to help us succeed and get better,” said Bradbury, “It was also nice to be respected and welcomed by many high-up individuals.”
Not many individuals, especially students, get the opportunity to talk to the governor, so when these students heard that Pritzker would be taking interviews in Lena, they were excited to attend.
“I think it was an incredible experience for these students to not only see what media professions do daily, but to also meet the governor and apply their skills to the real world,” said Kleindl.
After this memorable experience, the two young journalists feel grateful for the opportunity to grow and learn more about what it’s like to be a part of the press.
