Youth Press
By: Jessica Rose Jardinel
“Having fun at school! I’m part of the press at a TEDx youthevent! #feelingimportant #TEDxYouth”
MSC student, Audrey, expressed excitement about her participation in the TEDxYouth@MSC
event as she engaged in the social media coverage of the conference.
At the Manhattan School for Children, the “fundamental premise is that children learn by doing
and need experiences in many forms and modes to reach true understanding.” You can read more of the MSC Educational Philosophy here.
This conference showcased the MSC Educational Philosophy in every aspect.
The sixth through eighth grade Student Council representatives acted as Youth Press, carrying
responsibilities in photography, social media coverage, and professional interviews. The young
leaders were given video cameras for event records and tweeted to the @TEDxYouthatMSC
followers.
Between sessions, they picked the brains of each presenter while they asked questions such
as, “What does sustainability science mean to you?” and “What is the most interesting thing you
heard today?” They discovered that students gained ideas from the adult presenters and vice
versa.
Dr. Dickson Despommier stated, “The most interesting thing I heard today is that you can use
bacteria to clean saltwater.” In exchange, when asked about the most interesting thing heard
at the conference, student presenter Margaux replied, “Dickson’s speech. The vertical farming
about how people everywhere are doing the same thing.” James Dawson also agreed, “I think
hearing Dickson’s speech and learning about all the other places that are doing this. I feel like
it isn’t a blurry idea, it actually is happening.” Furthermore, Myasia reflected on architect,
Gregory Kiss’ speech, “I found it very interesting that they want to build Vertically Integrated
Growing Systems in towers…” These threaded answers show a recognition amongst the
students that they are great contributors to an expansive global change.
“Sustainability science means how to be able to continue living this lifestyle. All we have to do is adapt so we can have an even better lifestyle,” declares student, Wesley Vasquez.
The children recognize that they contribute to a global movement, understand their social
responsibilities, and hold control of their future.
