For
Release:
November
23, 2009
Contact:
Steven C. Sharek
(508)
998-3321, ext. 113
Sheriff Hodgson Thanks GNB Voc-Tech
Students
for Community Service
Iris Scan is a tool used to help
identify children or adults if they are lost or missing. Using high-resolution
images of the iris of an individual's eyes, it allows authorities to make
positive identifications.
A total of 36 students in the Legal
and Protective Services program at GNB Voc-Tech have had advanced training in
the process and are certified Iris scan technicians. Seven students have
already used the process in the field. They have traveled to a variety of
sites throughout the region to scan and catalogue children and seniors.
On November 13, those students and their
teacher, Atty. Kellie Martin, were invited to Sheriff Hodgson’s office to meet
with the Sheriff and Deputy Linda Pacheco. Deputy Pacheco works closely with
the students of the Legal and Protective Services program at GNB Voc-Tech.
During their meeting, the students
were given a chance to talk with the Sheriff to discuss how volunteerism has
shaped them and their future plans. Sheriff Hodgson expressed pride in
the Iris Scan project and the students’ work. The Sheriff presented each of the
students with Bristol County Sheriff’s Office hats as a way to express his
thanks.
The Bristol County Iris Scan program
initially covered only children. This year, it was expanded to include
senior citizens. This will help if a senior becomes lost due to memory problems
or mental illness.
This year, student Dylan Rodrigues will represent GNB Voc-Tech in a SkillsUSA “American Spirit Award” competition involving
Iris Scans for senior citizens.
Students Jonathan Alves and Dylan Rodrigues live in
Legal and Protective Services is one
of thirty career and technical education programs offered at GNB
Voc-Tech. The school serves students from
The school is an accredited member
of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
###
Steven C. Sharek, Esq.
Coordinator
- Arts, Communication and Consumer Services Cluster
Greater
Telephone:
(508) 998-3321, ext. 113
FAX:
(508) 998-4631