At the HudsonAlpha Wiregrass Code of Life summer program, which is being held at Dothan High School, young scientists from all around the Wiregrass are spending the week delving into the secrets of DNA.
Students in grades six through nine participate in the program, which teaches genetics through hands-on activities. 22 campers have learned how genetic information determines physical features and have collected DNA from a variety of creatures this week. Additionally, they are delving into subjects like genetic illnesses and mutations.
Nothing compares to witnessing campers have what are known as “lightbulb moments,” when a complex subject suddenly makes sense or a potential career path is identified, according to Kelly East, Vice President of Educational Outreach with HudsonAlpha Wiregrass.
Campers are working on lab skills including centrifuging and micropipetting. A colorful experiment that creates microorganisms that glow in the dark concludes the show.
While the other participants come from other districts across the region, six of them attend Dothan City Schools.
According to Lee Jacobs, Acting Superintendent of Dothan City Schools, the district is demonstrating its dedication to giving kids opportunity to investigate STEM disciplines by hosting the HudsonAlpha Wiregrass camp at DHS. We hope to inspire a love of science and creativity in our kids through initiatives like Code of Life, giving them the tools they need to influence the future.
HudsonAlpha Wiregrass will be a component of the proposed Wiregrass Innovation Center in downtown Dothan, which was started in 2022 in collaboration with the City of Dothan.
