To examine the experiences of immigrants in the U.S., Student Reporting Labs asked students to find stories in their own community that reflect the diversity that makes this country great. This created the #NewAmericans series, which focuses on the stories of immigration, identity and community through the eyes of teenagers.
PBS NewsHour recently highlighted the series on national television. Among the high schools featured nationally was Forestview High School, located in Gastonia, North Carolina. Student journalists from Forestview told the story of Karol Rodriguez, who found his place after coming to the U.S. from Cuba, thanks in part to the mentorship of someone who had done the same.
From Cuba to America, With Love was produced by Miranda Crowley, Brandon Revis, Kyle Ring, Ellen Smykowski and Ashley Sparrow, students of Forestview High School. Instruction provided by SRL Connected Educator Melissa Heilig. Mentor support provided by Kaitlyn Cannon of South Carolina ETV.