By: Harlie McCrite
One of my most memorable experiences as an EVIT student was attending a press conference with US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon on August 25th. The event, held on EVIT’s main campus focused on education and an opt-in proposal designed to create a fairer education system. Attending a real press conference and hearing the discussion firsthand gave me a unique perspective as a high school student. It showed me how leaders discuss important public issues and communicate their ideas to the community.
Being in the room during such a critical conversation stood out to me most. Because education directly affects students, hearing about potential changes to our opportunities and support made the event deeply meaningful. I enjoyed hearing different perspectives and reflecting on how leaders’ decisions ultimately shape student life.
“Instead of learning about these topics from a textbook or online, I was able to experience the discussion in person.”
The press conference also gave me a clearer look behind the scenes of a major public event. Reporters, cameras, and officials gathered to listen to and document the presentation. Watching everyone collaborate helped me realize how much preparation goes into an event like this. I also noticed how leaders present information to the public and how quickly an event enters the larger news conversation. Being there allowed me to witness something most students only see through news broadcasts or social media.
Overall, attending Secretary McMahon’s press conference remains a highlight of my time at EVIT. It gave me a chance to step outside the traditional classroom and witness a real-world debate about issues affecting students like me. It reinforced the importance of staying informed about changes in education and local community decisions. Most of all, it offered me a glimpse of the real world, showing how classroom lessons connect directly to the events unfolding around us.
