Junior Journalism Program
A hands-on, real-world journalism experience for kids and teens in Las Vegas
who want to write, interview, and see their work published in real magazines.
What Is the Junior Journalism Program?
The Vegas Family Insider Junior Journalism Program is a mentorship-based opportunity for
young writers, curious kids, and teens who love asking questions, telling stories,
and going behind the scenes.
Junior Journalists help create stories for
Vegas Family Insider —
local media platforms that reach thousands of families every month.
This isn’t a simulation. Kids don’t just learn about journalism —
they step into the role of reporter, with real assignments, real deadlines, and real bylines.
Perfect For Kids Who:
- Love writing, storytelling, or creative projects
- Ask “why?” and “how?” about almost everything
- Enjoy meeting new people and hearing their stories
- Want to build confidence in speaking and writing
- Are excited to be part of a supportive, creative team
How the Program Works
1. Monthly Editorial Meetings
Once a month, Junior Journalists meet with
Publisher Kimberley McGee and the VFI Editorial Board,
either in person or Google Meet.
- Review themes for upcoming issues
- Receive story assignments and deadlines
- Brainstorm ideas with other young writers
- Learn skills like interviewing, fact-checking, and structure
2. Monthly Deadlines
Writers turn in their stories by a clear, consistent deadline:
the 5th of each month.
This rhythm teaches responsibility, time management, and how real publishing works.
3. Real-World Reporting
Junior Journalists are invited to local media events, press opportunities,
and interviews. They may:
- Attend press conferences and previews as credentialed media
- Interview community leaders, performers, athletes, and business owners
- Cover kidpreneur markets, resource fairs, shows, and family events
4. Professional Expectations
Junior Journalists are treated like working reporters — with guidance and support.
They are expected to:
- Meet deadlines and communicate if they need help
- Represent VKZ professionally at events
- Wear their VKZ press badge and lanyard at media opportunities
- Follow the VKZ Writer’s Style Guide and interview etiquette
5. Mentorship and Feedback
Writers receive feedback on their drafts, story structure,
and interviewing skills so they can grow over time.
The goal isn’t perfection — it’s progress and confidence.
What Junior Journalists Receive
Every Junior Journalist has the opportunity to:
- Earn a VKZ Press Badge + Lanyard
- See their work published in print and digital magazines
- Attend events as part of the media
- Build a writing and journalism portfolio
- Request letters of recommendation when appropriate
- Develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills
- Attend annual awards banquet
Real bylines
New skills
Local stories
Many Junior Journalists go on to use their clips and experience for
school applications, contests, scholarships, and future opportunities.
Who Should Apply?
The program is a great fit for kids and teens who:
- Are curious and like to ask questions
- Enjoy writing, drawing, or storytelling (even if they’re just getting started)
- Can commit to a monthly meeting and a monthly deadline
- Want to be more involved in the Las Vegas community
- Are ready to practice responsibility in a fun, supportive environment
No formal writing experience is required.
Interest, effort, and a willingness to learn are the most important pieces.
How to Apply
-
- Submit an interest form.
Fill out the Junior Journalism interest form with your name, age,
school or homeschool info, and why you’d like to join.
Fill out the interest form here and we will contact you within 24 hours.
< /li> - Share a short writing sample.
This can be a school essay, a story, a report, or even a paragraph about
something you care about. It doesn’t have to be perfect — it just shows your starting point. - Attend a brief intro meeting.
You’ll meet with Publisher Kimberley virtually to:- Ask questions about the program
- Hear what to expect
- See if it’s the right fit for you right now
- Receive your first assignment.
If it’s a match, you’ll be added to the writer list, invited to the next editorial meeting,
and given your first story assignment and due date.
- Submit an interest form.
Current Jr. Journalists – Click Here For Story Ideas and Potential Interview List
In-Person Classes
Mondays at 10 a.m.
Virtual Option
Can’t attend in person? Join from home and participate virtually.
Students will:
- Learn interview skills
- Practice public speaking
- Write articles and reviews
- Create videos and social media content
- Cover community events
- Meet local leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, and entertainers
- Build confidence and communication skills
We Want Your Ideas!
What stories do YOU want to tell?
Submit story ideas, interview suggestions, event tips, and article pitches to:
Upcoming Editorial Calendar
July
Summer Adventures & Youth Achievement
- Summer camps and programs
- Teen jobs and entrepreneurship
- Sports and competition coverage
- Community heroes
August
Arts, Creativity & Back-to-School
- Local artists and performers
- Student creators
- Education options
- Family resources
September
Community Changemakers
- Local nonprofits
- Volunteer opportunities
- Inspiring local stories
- Business and leadership profiles
October
Innovation & Imagination
- Science, technology, gaming
- Halloween and seasonal events
- Young inventors and creators
November
Gratitude & Giving
- Community service
- Family traditions
- Local organizations making a difference
December
Celebration & Reflection
- Holiday events
- Year-in-review stories
- Outstanding young people in our community
Interviews We’re Working On
- Rick Harrison (Pawn Stars)
- Musicians from the Punk Rock Museum
- Boxabl Leadership Team
- Boxabl is a Nevada-based company that builds innovative foldable homes that can be shipped and assembled quickly.
- Local entertainers and performers
- Broadway touring casts at The Smith Center
- (Interviews typically require at least a 2-month lead time.)
- Director of the Filipino Museum
Events & Conventions Available to Cover
For more convention ideas, research here. Email Kim@vegasfamilyinsider.com with a convention you would like to attend. Preferred conventions are those around kid and family interests. Search for Candy Convention, Toy Convention, Family Health Convention, Entertainment Convention.
June
- Collect-A-Con (June 20–21)
July
- Nike Nationals (July 8–12)
- RollerCon (July 8–12)
Fall
- Groceryshop Convention
- World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA)