Palmetto Elementary School news crew gets real-life lesson in leadership

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COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. – A group of students at Palmetto Elementary School are getting a real-life lesson in leadership.

Every morning a group of fifth graders prepare for their morning newscast. They write the script, put together the weather graphics, and set up the studio.

“When we go live, it just like, it hits me I just know what the words mean and what they say and all that,” said Emilio.

The 10 minute newscast includes news, weather and what’s on the menu for lunch.

“When I grow up I want to be an anchor. Do you know where? WINK News,” said Julian.

“It feels good cause everyone gets to see you,” said Byron.

“They are leaders in the school, they’re very visible, all 550 students see them everyday,” said Kari Doucette, the school’s media specialist.

She tells WINK News every semester 12 students get the chance to be part of the WPLE news crew.

In order to get that opportunity they must apply. From there students go through an interview just like they would to get hired at a real job.

“Many are very nervous when I tell them that but it’s a good thing that they have to go through that because that’s a part of life and I tell them being a little nervous will push you to strive a little bit more,” said Doucette.

Doucette said this prepares these young kids for their future.

“We sometimes will record what they’re doing and then look back at it, what did you do good today and what do you need to improve on for tomorrow to make the show even better.”

 

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