CBS Chicago features journalism students on morning news

After EPTV’s successful year in the classroom and at the recent IHSA journalism competitions, a morning crew from CBS Chicago made a visit to Elmwood Park High School, highlighting what a productive time it has been for the students. 

“I had kids walking away saying ‘This is awesome, I really want to do this,’” said Journalism Teacher Christina Heinen. 

EPTV placed first in their IHSA sectional competition in the TV News category, allowing them to compete at state. CBS Chicago reporter Jamaica Ponder interviewed Heinen and the three students who went to state: Johnny Baratta, Rayan Lahlou-nabil and Sarai Quintanar. They were joined by their fellow EPTV peers Liliana Corbett, Cassandra Chowaniak and Anastasia Prodanchuk who manned different stations just as they would on the day of a taping. 

CBS 2 reporter Jamaica Ponder interviews Sarai Quintanar and Rayan Lahlou-nabil

Ponder talked with the students and Heinen in two separate live interviews that were broadcast on the morning news. She asked about the journalism program, how the new broadcast studio came to be and how the students performed in the IHSA competitions. 

“It was cool to see how they do their reporting,” said Chowaniak.

After the interviews, Ponder and her Photojournalist, Lou Kleinberg, spoke with the students about a wide range of topics from the importance of storytelling to how young professionals should present themselves in the workplace.   

“I learned that getting jobs, even if it's not in journalism, is all about knowing people and building those connections with internships in college,” said Corbett.

CBS 2 Photojournalist Lou Kleinberg shows some of his work experiences

Ponder, a 2021 Northwestern graduate, talked about her experience entering the news industry during a time when digital media is more important than ever. Kleinberg, a veteran photographer, spoke about witnessing the business change so much and how he has been able to adapt. 

EPCUSD 401 thanks CBS Chicago for highlighting our students!