Area youths are taking a cue from the popular CSI television series and learning about the science involved in crime scene investigation thanks to the Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA) Forensics Summer Institute.  

    The program, hosted by the 4-H program of West Virginia State University Extension Service, allows participants to view a mock murder scene and try to figure out “who did it?”  The weeklong residential camp begins Sunday, July 17, on the WVSU campus.

    During the week, participants view a mock murder scene, interview suspects, use scientific knowledge to search for clues and ultimately attempt to solve the crime.  At the camp’s conclusion, participants act out scenarios based on what they think took place at the scene of the crime.

    “The kids have fun while they learn at this summer institute,” said Kelli Batch, Extension Specialist for 4-H Youth Development with WVSU Extension Service and director of the camp.  “They are nurturing their math and science skills in a format that is unique and interesting to them.”

    The forensics institute is one portion of what is a statewide HSTA curriculum developed through community leadership with multiple university partnerships and funded through the WV legislature, National Institutes of Health, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Benedum and others.  The program follows 9th-12th grade minority and underrepresented students through their high school careers and into college, preparing them for science and health care careers. 

    The closing ceremony for the HSTA Forensics Summer Institute will be held in WVSU’s Wilson Student Union on Friday, July 22, at 10:30 a.m.  For more information, contact Kelli Batch at (304) 550-4722.