On July 17th, eight Katz Dalsey Academy fourth-grade students teamed up with three Camden Academy sophomores to create a delicious treat, mozzarella sticks. Under the leadership of Chef Mundell, students worked together while learning the basics of culinary arts and how to prepare simple dishes they can recreate at home with their families.
The students gathered around their workstations with an assortment of ingredients in front of them. Each fourth grader took part in preparing the mozzarella sticks while the Camden Academy sophomores used the culinary skills they have developed to cook each batch to perfection. Throughout the lesson, the older students encouraged and assisted their younger peers, creating a fun and supportive learning environment.
Chef Mundell praised the collaboration between the elementary and high school students and was impressed by the enthusiasm the fourth graders brought to the kitchen.
“From today’s experience, the fourth graders were very motivated to be here,” he said. “They were very patient and respectful. The future here for culinary is in a good place.”
The cooking lesson gave students more than just a tasty snack. It provided an opportunity to build teamwork, strengthen relationships across grade levels, and gain valuable life skills that extend beyond the classroom.
Analiyah Soto, one of the Camden Academy sophomores in attendance, enjoyed seeing the excitement and enthusiasm from the fourth graders.
“I would say it was a really good experience because they remind me of when I was younger,” Soto said. “I love the experience of being there for them, helping them learn to cook, and bringing new experiences to them that they can and will use.”
This experience helped build a bridge between two campuses as students from different grade levels learned a universal life skill, cooking, while also creating connections, teamwork, and a stronger sense of community.