Frequently Asked Questions

Application & Selection

What are the eligibility requirements?

You must be a Central Illinois high school student, ages 15-19, ready to commit to the full program (Spring 2026).

When are applications open?

Applications for the inaugural season are now closed. Selected applicants will be contacted with next steps.

How competitive is the selection process?

We are selecting 20-30 Summiteers from Central Illinois. This is a highly competitive, exclusive opportunity.

Do I need debate experience?

No prior debate experience required! We provide comprehensive media training, debate coaching, and podcast production training.

What if I don't live in Central Illinois?

Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix is currently recruiting for Central Illinois. Future seasons may expand to other regions.

Program Details

When is the production season?

The program runs during Spring 2026 (February-May). The first shoot is February 28th, 2026.

How much time does this require?

This is a part-time commitment with 4-8 hours per week during production.

Do I get paid?

Yes! Summiteers are compensated for their work. Exact compensation will be detailed in your selection agreement.

What about transportation and meals?

Transportation (bus cards) and meals are provided on all production days.

Is college credit available?

Yes, in partnership with University of Illinois through the Communiversity Public Media Project.

Content & Format

What topics will we debate?

You choose! In our Flip the Script format, YOU decide the topics that matter to your community.

What's different about this debate format?

Traditional debate asks you to perform positions you might not believe. Flip the Script is different: you argue from YOUR authentic perspective on issues YOU care about.

Can I talk about hip-hop culture?

Absolutely! We believe hip-hop culture IS civic culture. Your music, your art, your perspective — all of it matters and will be featured.

What formats will be produced?

TV episodes for Illinois Public Media, podcasts, digital content, and behind-the-scenes materials.

Parents, Safety & Academic Civic NILS Oversight

What support is available for parents?

We have a comprehensive Parent Portal with real-time updates, filming schedules, episode access, safety information, and communication channels.

How is youth safety prioritized?

Safety is our top priority. We have professional staff on set, established protocols, medical information on file, and regular communication with parents/guardians.

Can parents attend filming?

Yes! Parents are welcome at filming days.

What is Academic Civic NILS?

Academic Civic NILS (Name, Image, Likeness, Story) is our framework for helping youth develop their personal brand. Parents can monitor progress via the Parent Portal.

Are there background checks for staff?

Yes. All staff working with youth undergo background checks and training in youth safety protocols.

Consent, Recording & Your Rights

Why do I need to sign an image/media release form?

Illinois law (the Right of Publicity Act) requires your written permission before we can use your name, image, voice, or likeness on screen.

What is the Illinois Right of Publicity Act?

A state law (765 ILCS 1075) that protects your identity — your name, photo, image, voice — from commercial use without your written consent.

What if I'm under 18?

A parent or legal guardian must provide written consent for any minor appearing in recorded or broadcast content.

What is Academic Civic NILS and how does it relate to my rights?

NILS stands for Name, Image, Likeness, and Story. Our program is designed to help you understand and develop YOUR personal brand while ensuring you are fairly recognized and compensated.

Personal Development

Will this help with college?

Definitely! College credit is available, and you will build a portfolio of professional media content and letters of recommendation.

What kind of training will I receive?

Professional media training including on-camera presence, podcast production, debate coaching, and personal branding — plus mentorship from industry professionals and UIUC faculty.

General & Logistics

Is there a dress code for filming?

Yes! Wear jewel tones (sapphire, emerald, ruby, teal), soft-sole shoes only, avoid fine patterns, neon colors, all-white or all-black, large logos, and metallic fabrics.

How long are filming days?

Typically 3-5 hours including setup, filming, and wrap. Exact times vary by episode type.

Can I participate if I have other extracurriculars?

Yes! We schedule around school activities and understand commitments. However, you must prioritize filming dates once the schedule is released.