Lorain High Students Help Lead the Conversation During Governor Tim Walz Visit

Lorain, OH — While nearly 2,000 people packed Lorain High School’s Performing Arts Center and gymnasium Tuesday night for a town hall hosted by the Ohio Democratic Party, two Titans made sure student voices were heard on a national stage.

Lorain High School senior Liz Alvarez and junior Sie’Aira Casey interviewed Minnesota Governor Tim Walz ahead of the event for a segment produced by TV20, the district’s in-house media production team. The interview gave students a rare opportunity to question a sitting governor on topics ranging from public education to civic leadership.

The student journalists were guided by LHS teachers Steven Cawthon, who helped them craft their questions, and Terry Traut, who directed the TV20 segment. The Governor, a former teacher and high school football coach, immediately connected with the students and praised their professionalism.

“Thank you for doing this in a high school,” Walz said as he took the stage later that evening. “The only other place I’m more comfortable is in my living room.”

Education remained front and center during the evening. As Ohio debates potential cuts to public school funding and increased support for private school vouchers, Walz spoke passionately about the role of public schools in strengthening the middle class. “You can either buy school buses or prison buses,” he said. “You make the choice.”

Former Ohio Supreme Court Justice Melody Stewart moderated the discussion. Among the audience were educators, students, families, and local community members eager to share their concerns and ask questions.

Although the event featured a high-profile political figure, the moment belonged to Lorain’s students, who demonstrated what it means to be informed, articulate and engaged.

Friday morning, the two students sat down with LHS Principal Melissa Cheers to talk about their experience. You can view that video here.

As Lorain continues to shine a light on student achievement through real-world opportunities like this, the message is clear: the future is not only coming—it’s already here, and it's wearing Titan blue.