Two teachers are making quite the difference at Lincoln high school by openly talking about America’s social and criminal justice system and using DNA evidence in the courtroom. Rachel Detra and Catherine Handschuh – both teaching freshman and AP – are participating in the project.

All participating students were invited into a “crime scene” where a potential subject grabbed a suspicious backpack and briskly left the room. Next, students had quite the task attempting to draw up a useable diagram and description of the suspect on electronically. Lastly, students tested their memory by recreating the scene of the crime on a map up of the room.

Mrs. Handschuh said students will learn about DNA evidence and its role in crime scene investigation. Students will also hear from DNA lab workers and experts.

Ms. Detra used the project to teach students about eyewitness testimonies and their role in the social justice system.  Students studied social justice on a large scale like the American social justice system. This presentation will also include hearing a man talk about his experience being exonerated after twenty years in jail.

Lincoln Lions Tales podcast The Pod’sCat will be interviewing the students who participated in this project,coming soon!

When asked about this project Mrs. Handschuh said “It’s a great way for students to learn about the social justice system in America, while also seeing first hand how big of a role science plays into our life. It’s a really neat experience to be a part of.”

Make sure to keep up on this awesome story with future updates and podcasts coming soon!