"It's a made-up story, but the DNA is actually DNA," said RESA II Math Mentor Dale Blevins.

That's right, real DNA and real DNA technology. All in the hands of local teenagers.

"I didn't realize it was so hard," said Kelly Plumley, a Lincoln County High School Junior. "I thought it just sort of happened, the DNA just sort of showed up."

But now she's finding out that's not the case. Students are learning each step in a DNA lab thanks to a program called Project MATH. MATH is an acronym for Making Achievements in the Twenty-first century Happen.

The program is a partnership with RESA II and Marshall University, and it's giving students the ultimate learning experience.

"I think it's awesome because you get to see how math and science is mixed together in real jobs," said Duvall eighth grade student, Destany Bailey.

"It makes it on the TV shows look really simple and, like, just a five minute step, and actually this project has shown us it takes a lot longer and it's a lot more complicated," added Plumley.

Students say it gives them a new appreciation for their skills.

"It's been fun because it can actually help in real life and you realize that people actually do this and this does come in handy and it's not just another math or science project, it actually has a point," said Plumley.

Teachers say it's that excitement about learning that already makes this project a success.