The Virginia Middle School Association (VMSA) is delighted to announce that JL Simpson Middle School has been awarded a grant for its project, “Integrating Cooking in History.” This innovative initiative will engage students in history through hands-on cooking experiences.
Led by history teachers Jennifer Herrin and Christina White, the project aims to create a more engaging and immersive learning environment. Students will prepare meals from various cultures and eras, gaining a deeper understanding of historical contexts through firsthand exploration of food and flavors.
The grant from the VMSA will support the purchase of necessary cooking equipment and ingredients for the program. This project aligns with the association’s mission to promote innovative and engaging learning experiences in middle schools.
“The ‘Integrating Cooking in History’ initiative truly embodies the spirit of creative and impactful education,” said VMSA President, Dr. Elizabeth Sanders. “This project has the potential to transform the way students learn history, fostering a deeper connection to the subject matter while developing valuable life skills.”
In addition to exploring diverse cultures and historical periods, the project will also emphasize a focus on the historical contributions of women and people of color. By examining the impact specific individuals and groups have had on food and its history, students will gain a more nuanced understanding of the past.
