Culinary skills are important for children, helping them develop their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities while teaching healthy eating habits. Cooking and baking activities at school also give students an opportunity to bond with their peers, practicing their social skills as they learn new recipes and techniques.
Last week, the College and Career Readiness Department at the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) hosted a five-day Spring Break Culinary Camp for 34 middle school students from Elk Grove. The event was held in partnership with Capsity CulinaryEDU at its co-working location in Oak Park. CulinaryEDU is a Sacramento community culinary education program serving all ages. Its programs for students are aligned with state educational standards.
Spring Break Culinary Camp participants enjoyed a week of culinary fun, making pizza, dessert pizza, ramen, pasta, and more. One of the most popular activities involved adding carbon dioxide to water to create bubbly potions and learn how carbonation works.
Students made new friends and practiced teamwork throughout the event. Their final challenge, conducted in groups of two, was to create 25 “small bites”—one sweet, one savory—for a total of 50 small bites that were presented and judged. Winners included:
- First Place: Chefs Medina and Schubert—Japanese Omelet and Taste of Summer (trophy and $100 each)
- Second Place: Chefs Wu and Wu—Mochi and Gnochi (medals and $50 each)
- Third Place: Chefs Bell and Ly—Ramen, Pancake, and Spaghetti (medals and 1000 Grand candy bars)
Each student took home their culinary workbook, plus a certificate of completion, a VIP Buffalo Pizza & Ice Cream “Herd Card” (providing lifetime discounts), and an ice cream scoop.
Thanks to Dmitri Godamunne, CEO of Perspectives by Capsity, Inc. (Buffalo Pizza & Ice Cream), and Chef Dawn Fregosa (host instructor) for their help in making the camp a success.