Since 1968, KYW Newsradio has given high-school juniors and seniors the opportunity to learn about the inner workings of a major market radio station with the Newstudies student reporter program.

Students come to KYW Newsradio on six Saturdays to learn newswriting, reporting, ethics and interviewing skills from station managers, editors, reporters, anchors and guest speakers. The students then research, write and record news stories about their school and community.

Video production teacher and KTV advisor, Frank Vanderslice, selected Kennett High School students Kelsie Cairns (a senior) and Peter J. O’Sullivan (a junior) to participate in the fall 2013 class. During a recent Saturday class, Kelsie went on the air to deliver a report on a recent visit by President Obama. Jim Donovan, a reporter from KYW, worked with Kelsie’s group and pointed out the need to quickly report on a live event with little time to prepare. 

Reflecting on her experience, Kelsie said, “This industry isn’t your typical 9-to-5 business. News happens 24-7, and you have to be ready to cover a story at any time. Also, competition is intense, but with the right skills and ambition, I believe I can become an anchor one day.”

For her class podcast, Kelsie reported on the efforts of a local parent whose daughter was a victim of heroin abuse. Kelsie interviewed Andrew Rumford about his late daughter’s challenges. The story aired over KYW radio on Dec. 8.  This story, as well as P.J. O’Sullivan’s piece about Kennett’s Multicultural Conference, can be heard at www.kyw1060info.com/newstudies.