Florida CSI

FLORIDA — Some of the next generation of crime scene investigators may well come from the Village of Florida.

That's because S.S. Seward Institute has become a partner school with Syracuse University and will offer a college-level course in forensic science for its students in the fall.

Through its Project Advance program, Syracuse University allows high school students to enroll in and complete college courses while in high school.

“It was a natural progression of academic achievement that led Seward to Syracuse,” High School Principal Michael S. Rheaume said in a press release announcing the partnership. “After years of success of offering college classes via SUNY Orange, the Syracuse University Project Advance program allows school officials to expand upon course offerings, while meeting student interest.”

Forensics is not limited to the sciences, though many forensic experts work in the sciences. Forensic experts may be retained to analyze almost any type of evidence and explains its significance to those working within the judicial system. A criminal defense lawyer may utilize forensic experts specializing in criminalistics, pathology, serology, photography, ballistics, odontology, botany, psychology and toxicology.

Rheaume said chemistry teacher Kate Hannon was integral in bringing this class to Seward. Hannon will spend time this summer with other SUPA teachers preparing and developing learning experiences for students. Presently, 14 students are enrolled for this fledgling class.

Rheaume also noted that as educators at Seward continue to review curriculum, the partnership with Syracuse may grow as student interests change and grow stronger in getting a head start on their collegiate studies.

“Parents and guardians will find the classes to be accessible and affordable, helping to ease the burden of paying for college,” he added.

To learn more about the program, visit: http://supa.syr.edu.