From the classroom to the crime scene

A program that teaches kids science has them leaving the classroom for crime scenes.

Two groups of middle and high school students visited the National Forensic Science Center in Largo. Technology. It's a way to get them excited about science and fighting crime.

"We've actually participated in the stem camp for the last three years, and we've allowed them to look at actually true ways to use science in fighting crime," said Kevin Lothridge, CEO of the NFSTC.

Students learn how to apply science, technology, engineering and math to real life situations.

Pinellas Park High School student Jillian Veckingburg like the hands-on experience.

"I'm more of a person that loves to learn hands on.  I'd rather not be lectured about all the lessons.  I love to get to use the camera and walk around and take the pictures and be by myself.  Not somebody instructing me all day long," she said.

It's a first-hand approach that stimulates their minds.

"They can track everything that we do on our smartphone, no matter what it is, games, pictures, text messages, picture messages, everything," said Clearwater High School student McKenzie Alfred.

And tears them away from time-wasting games.

"If we get them to spend as much time learning science, technology, engineering and math as they do on playing games, then it's been successful," Lothridge said.

It's a way to keep students engaged and interested in subjects they otherwise may not like.

"All of our staff believe that the work that we do in the forensic world makes a difference and we can certainly hope that those students take that away," Lothridge said.

Many of today's highest paying jobs are in STEM fields, and that's part of the reason there's such a huge push to get American students engaged and competitive in that area.