Teaching academic subjects in a classroom is a key component of student learning, but Mrs. Samantha Kidwell believes there are other skills that should be included in classroom instruction. One of those skills is cooking. The third-grade class has been able to participate in cooking lessons thanks to the Cissna Park Education Foundation. The Cissna Park Education Foundation funded four cooking kits that the third-grade students were able to complete every quarter. These kits enhanced their knowledge of measurement and tested their reading comprehension. Not only that, it was an opportunity to collaborate with peers, teach cleanliness while cooking, and enjoy some tasty treats! 

Providing students the opportunity to learn basic life skills not only helps them now, but also prepares them for their future adult lives. Mrs. Kidwell stated, “The earlier I teach students the basic skills of reading recipes, measuring ingredients, and maintaining cleanliness, the better.”