Lakewood Ranch | Elementary | Mystery Makers: Junior Forensics


ID : 17570   

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ClassGraphic Summer Enrichment 2026
SCF Lakewood Ranch
July 27-30
M-TH 8:15 am - 3:30 pm

Mystery Makers: Junior Forensics Why Choose SCF Summer Camps? 

In this hands?on crime scene investigation class, students turn into junior forensic scientists and use real science to solve playful mysteries. They learn how investigators collect and analyze evidence—fingerprints, shoeprints, fibers, inks—and how scientists use observation, patterns, and fair tests to figure out “whodunnit.” Working in small teams, students design their own escape room game concept that teaches others how to examine clues and think like scientists. On Day 4, they attend their own Mystery Showcase, where students present and playtest their games.

Students will:
Explain what forensic science is and name common evidence types (fingerprints, impressions, fibers, inks) and how scientists analyze them. 
Classify fingerprint patterns (loops, whorls, arches) and lift latent prints safely using household “dusting” methods. 
Use paper chromatography to separate inks and compare samples (e.g., a “ransom note” vs. suspect pens). 
Describe, at a high level, how DNA fingerprinting can distinguish individuals  
Apply the engineering design cycle to create a digital escape room game that teaches players how to analyze clues.
Present and explain how their game uses real forensic ideas to support fair, evidence?based conclusions.

Students will walk away with
A kid?friendly understanding of evidence, patterns, and fair testing.
A log book documenting their experience using fingerprint lifting, ink chromatography, and observational sketches. 
A student?created escape room concept, plus confidence in public speaking and teamwork.
 

At State College of Florida, we inspire kids to think big, stay curious, and build skills they can use for life. Our summer camps are designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and confidence in a fun, supportive, and engaging environment. Each week introduces new challenges and hands-on experiences that encourage learning, growth, and lasting memories.

Our camps are led by qualified, carefully selected staff with an education background, with curriculum thoughtfully curated and overseen by a former school principal to ensure high-quality instruction, strong student engagement, and a positive camp culture.

Student safety and well-being are our to priorities. SCF Public Safety Officers are on site during camp hours, and our staff actively monitor student behavior to maintain a safe and inclusive learning environment. While we make every reasonable effort to support individual needs and accommodate students when possible, behavior that significantly disrupts the learning or safety of others cannot be accommodated. Additional details regarding behavior expectations, supervision, and procedures are outlined in our required release and policy forms.

Join us for a summer of discovery, creativity, and innovation, where learning is always an adventure.
 
Step Up Direct Provider | PEP Accepted Discounts and other Financial Assistance
SCF Youth Enrichment accepts Step Up and PEP scholarship funds for eligible programs. Families must register on both Step Up for Students and the SCF website. Use the code StepUpSCFSummer26 at checkout to reduce payment to $0. SCF reconciles class rosters with Step Up and PEP registrations and invoices after the first class. Step Up pays SCF directly; families are not reimbursed. Scholarships
If you qualify for free and reduced lunch through county schools and can provide documentation, a limited number of scholarships may be available. To apply, click the link below. Our staff will contact you within one week of applying to determine eligibility.
Scholarship Application

Sibling Discounts
Families registering siblings who reside in the same household may use coupon code SCFsibling50 at checkout for $50 off.
 
Upon Registration & What to Expect Summer Enrichment Overview
Upon registration, you will automatically receive our required release form. This form must be completed before your child may participate on campus without parent or guardian supervision, so we ask that you complete it promptly to avoid delays on the first day of class. Only one release form is needed per child, even if they are enrolled in multiple weeks or programs.

If you experience any issues completing the form electronically or need a paper copy, please contact us and we will be happy to email one to you. Completed paper forms may be scanned and returned in advance by emailing it to youthenrichment@scf.edu, or you may notify us ahead of time if you plan to bring a hard copy on the first day.

Safety is a top priority at SCF, and completing forms in advance helps our staff ensure a smooth and efficient check-in, especially during busy first-day mornings.

An email with detailed logistics and expectations will be sent by Thursday of the week prior to the class start date. Campers should bring a water bottle and lunch each day.  Snacks are included.  
 

SCF Youth Summer Enrichment programs offer a dynamic blend of learning and fun designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence in young learners. Across all experiences, students explore coding, robotics, design, and other technology-rich skills while engaging in hands-on activities grounded in STEAM and Project Based Learning.

Each program balances meaningful learning with joyful experiences. Participants collaborate in small groups to build 21st century skills such as communication, problem solving, teamwork, and creative thinking. Learning is reinforced through hands on experiments, design challenges, and real world projects that encourage students to ask questions, test ideas, and share their thinking.

To support the whole child, days are thoughtfully structured to include outdoor, guided play, brain breaks, movement, and opportunities for social connection. This intentional balance helps students stay engaged, energized, and excited about learning while having fun along the way.

SCF Youth Summer Enrichment is where imagination meets innovation and learning feels like an adventure.

Class Details

4 Session(s)
Weekly - Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu

Location
SCF Lakewood Ranch (CIT)

Instructor
N/A * 

Fee: 

$299.00


Registration Closes On
Sunday, July 26, 2026 @ 12:00 AM

Schedule Information

Date(s) Class Days Times Location Instructor(s) Instructional Method
7/27/2026 - 7/30/2026 Weekly - Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 08:15 AM - 03:30 PM Sarasota, SCF Lakewood Ranch (CIT)  Map N/A *  Classroom