At Battle Academy, the classroom has taken on a delicious new flavor. Through the school’s “Cooking Up Learning” program, the tantalizing aromas of freshly baked pumpkin bread and the savory sizzle of frying okra are not just about food preparation–they represent a dynamic and engaging approach to education.
“Cooking Up Learning,” the brainchild of Tarah Kemp, blends culinary arts seamlessly with core academic subjects, transforming learning into a hands-on, flavorful adventure. Kemp, who moved to Chattanooga from Miami, Florida, in 2006 and is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, drew upon her unique background to create the program.
“I was a teacher with two jobs: teaching during the day and serving at a local restaurant at night,” Kemp explained. “I did this for over 12 years. I was keen on keeping my worlds divided, only to discover that I could bring my expertise and passion of food into my classroom.”
This realization led to the establishment of “Cooking Up Learning” at Battle Academy, a program designed to cultivate critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills in students through the engaging medium of food.
“Cooking Up Learning” creatively integrates culinary activities with grade-specific curriculum, offering a more exciting and tangible way for students to grasp concepts. Imagine math lessons involving measuring ingredients, science experiments exploring the chemical reactions in baking, or geography lessons coming alive through the preparation of dishes from different cultures. This hands-on approach fosters deeper understanding and retention of material.
A vital ingredient in the program’s success is its partnership with local culinary luminary Chef Kenyatta Ashford. A Food Network “Chopped Champion” renowned for his expertise in Afro-Creole cuisine, Chef Ashford has been collaborating with Battle Academy students for the past three years.
His involvement ranges from demystifying the chemistry behind a simple vinaigrette to exploring the cultural significance of fried okra harvested from the school’s very own rooftop garden.
During a recent session, Chef Ashford guided students in the preparation of Chicken Perlo, a dish steeped in both history and flavor. These interactions not only hone students’ culinary skills but also provide invaluable insights into cultural heritage and the importance of community connections.
The program has already yielded significant positive results, with 100% of participating educators reporting heightened student engagement, improved content retention, and a more positive overall attitude towards school. Parents and teachers alike have lauded its effectiveness in enhancing students’ understanding of subjects like history, geography, and math through the lens of cooking.
As one enthusiastic parent shared, “We never thought our fifth grader would be excited about beans and vegetables–now he loves parsnips and eats beans, thanks to Culinary Lab!”
Battle Academy, a K-5 Magnet School, is nestled in the heart of Chattanooga’s Southside at 1601 Market Street.
For those interested in learning more about the “Cooking Up Learning” program or exploring the possibility of bringing it to their own school, additional information can be found on website: https://www.cookinguplearning.com/.