“We’ve talked about it quite frequently in our government classes. We’ve said you this is what’s going to happen. We have students in every role from moderator to just running lights and sound,” said Cheyenne Maize, a Greater Johnstown High School senior.

Maize won’t be able to attend the forum, but she’s still submitted questions for the candidates. Her classmate, Aiden Stuart, will also ask some of the questions, including a few of his own.

“I want to know about jobs specifically. What’s going to be done to keep jobs in the area to see the job market increase and to bolster the local economy,” said Aiden Stuart, a senior at Greater Johnstown High School.

Students met with the Tribune Democrat to discuss interviewing tips and issues facing the city, especially those affecting kids: programs for youth and how they can have their voices heard.

Social Studies teacher Dan Tomak said preparing for the forum has not only been a learning experience for the students, but it will hopefully inspire them to stay in the area and make a difference.

“I hope for these other kids who are part of the brain drain, which is a real problem, decide to stay. Or at least if they leave, come back because we need leaders. We need young people to stay and step up and be our future leaders,” said Dan Tomak, a Social Studies teacher at Greater Johnstown High School.

Maize said she wants to get involved in politics so she can help her hometown.

“I’d like to become representative of the 12th district of Pennsylvania and become congresswoman one day. I’d like to do a lot of good for this area because this area raised me and supported me and I’d like to do the same to it,” Maize said.

Teachers and students said this forum will also allow the candidates and the community to hear a different perspective from kids in the area.