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FBI works to build relationships at Milwaukee school through youth program

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Posted at 4:15 PM, Mar 28, 2019
and last updated 2019-03-28 22:28:04-04

Milwaukee students are getting a rare look into the FBI.

Middle school students at Milwaukee Parkside School for the Arts were full of questions for FBI Supervisory Special Agent Jason Soule who talked to the class about gangs this week.

Violent crimes, terrorism and social media were also part of the curriculum.

"If they're lacking trust in law enforcement maybe they'll start to develop it a little bit," said Soule.

The FBI's Adopt-A-School program is part of a national effort to bring kids and law enforcement closer.

"Would also like to empower them, would like to see them have pride in their community, like to see them take ownership in their community," said Soule.

Aliyana Olivarez hopes other kids can take a class like this.

Anything I usually see is just on TV and seeing it in person is surreal," said Olivarez.

Olivarez said she learned how dangerous social media can be.

"It's a reminder to always be alert," she said.

Principal Lila Hillman said eighth grade is a good age to talk with students about these serious topics.

"So our students are exposed in the community and this is their chance to really get inside and look behind the scenes of the FBI," she said.

The program is designed to build relationships, gain trust and expose kids to possible career options within the FBI.