Schuylkill Haven students learn about forensics by shadowing coroner's office personnel

Apr. 21—NEW PHILADELPHIA — Two Schuylkill Haven Area High School seniors planning on continuing their education in the forensic field are completing a shadow program with the Schuylkill County Coroner's Office.

Kyleigh Book, the daughter of Scott and Denise Book, and Emma Osatchuck, the daughter of Richard and Christie Osatchuck, are spending time observing firsthand the various aspects of the coroner's office.

Deputy Coroner Albert T. Barnes said both students have been shadowing at on-scene calls, working in the morgue, attending autopsies under the direction of forensic pathologist Dr. Wayne Ross in Dauphin County and more.

"We are trying to introduce them into areas that they can pursue later in life," Barnes said.

He said Emma plans to attend West Virginia University while Kyleigh will continue her education at Widener University.

Emma said she got involved in the shadowing program after becoming interested in forensics and learning of her mother's job as a surgical technician in Reading.

"I dissected a sheep's heart and knew forensics was what I wanted," she said. "After that, I knew I had the stomach for it."

Emma said she will major in forensic biology at West Virginia.

Kyleigh also took an interest in forensics, after dissecting a cat during one of her classes.

After being involved with forensic autopsies and other aspects of the forensic field, Kyleigh said she wants to pursue a career in forensic psychology.

Barnes said the two "interns" are a tremendous asset to the coroner's office and commended all the work they are doing.

"I utilize them as much as I can," he said. "They help out tremendously and are learning at the same time."

Both students also attended the Forensic February Seminar presented by the Pennsylvania State Coroner's Education Board and received certificates.

Barnes said that Kyleigh and Emma have shown a great interest in the field of forensics and said he hopes both have successful careers.

The shadowing program will continue, he said, and is open to any high school senior interested in pursuing a career in the forensics field.

"It (the program) gives them the chance to work with our office and see if that is the career for them," Barnes said. "It's good for us, and it's good for them."

Contact the writer: fandruscavage@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6013