By: Vareva Harris, Co-Editor | Vareva@thewoodrufftimes.com
The Cooking Up Confidence (CUC) program proved to be a recipe for success during a recent hands-on class with Mrs. Sheppard’s students at Woodruff High School, where culinary education met nutrition, teamwork, and confidence-building.
The interactive session, led in collaboration with registered dietitian Katherine Swann and Spartanburg School District Four’s Food Service Department, introduced students to essential kitchen fundamentals, including proper knife skills and safe food preparation techniques. Students then put those skills into practice by preparing two nutrient-rich recipes: Salmon Dip and Chips and Cinnamon Apple Crunch Cups.
Beyond learning how to follow recipes, students gained practical life skills and a sense of accomplishment as they worked together in the kitchen. The program emphasized healthy eating, creativity, and confidence—key ingredients in developing lifelong wellness habits.
Cooking Up Confidence is a community collaborative program managed by PAL: Play Advocate Live Well in partnership with Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System (SRHS). The initiative is designed to empower students through nutrition education and experiential learning, connecting schools, health professionals, and community organizations.
District leaders praised the program’s impact on students’ engagement and enthusiasm.
“For the love of students and lunch, experiences like this help young people see food as fuel and cooking as a skill they can carry with them for life,” said Audra Terry, Director of Food Services for Spartanburg School District Four.
With strong community partnerships and enthusiastic participation, the Cooking Up Confidence program continues to demonstrate how collaborative efforts can nourish both body and mind—one recipe at a time.
Author: Vareva Harris
