DCS and Houston Academy 3rd-graders celebrating National DNA Day by participating in strawberry DNA extraction
Third-graders in Dothan will celebrate National DNA Day on Wednesday, April 23, by participating in a city-wide science experiment. For the second year in a row more than 700 students in 10 schools will extract strands of DNA from strawberries as part of a hands-on learning experience designed to introduce the students to basic genomic concepts.
Educators from HudsonAlpha will lead the activity using supplies found in most households. Students will learn what DNA is and its importance in helping scientists better understand both human health and agriculture. The lesson complements the Alabama Course of Study for Science.
Participating schools include the following Dothan City School System schools: Carver Math, Science and Technology, Beverlye and Girard Intermediate Schools and Heard, Selma Street, Faine, Kelly Springs, Highlands and Slingluff Elementary Schools along with Houston Academy.
“Every day is DNA Day at a place like HudsonAlpha. However, National DNA Day is coming up and we are excited to celebrate with local elementary schools,” said Kelly East, HudsonAlpha’s Vice President of Educational Outreach. “Our goal is for every 3rd grader to extract DNA from a strawberry while learning what DNA is and why it is important to life.”
National DNA Day is celebrated each year during the week of April 25th, honoring two groundbreaking scientific achievements—the discovery of DNA’s double helix in 1953 and the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003.
“The Wiregrass is being exposed to opportunities that are not offered elsewhere. We are bridging the gap and ensuring every student is exposed to the importance of DNA,” said Dean Mitchell, Director of HudsonAlpha Wiregrass. “We’re thankful to have such wonderful partnerships in our local schools and a great education team that is dedicated to spreading the love of DNA.”
About HudsonAlpha Wiregrass
In 2022, HudsonAlpha announced the expansion of its physical footprint outside of its longtime home in Huntsville. The public-private collaboration with the city of Dothan is called HudsonAlpha Wiregrass and extends HudsonAlpha’s agricultural focus in the region through agricultural research, economic development and genomics education.
Next year, HudsonAlpha Wiregrass will be the anchor tenant of the planned Wiregrass Innovation Center. This 45,000-square foot City of Dothan facility is funded by the state of Alabama and the Wiregrass Foundation will open the beginning of 2026.
The Wiregrass Innovation Center will serve several major functions, including being a home for hands-on training and practical learning in science, genomics, research, technology and innovation, and will create an ecosystem for entrepreneurs and innovators in Dothan and the Wiregrass area.
For more information, visit hudsonalpha.org.