Students express creativity and friendship through baking

photo provided by Mrs. Jenny Nichols Mrs. Jenny Nichols teaches Abby and Chloe Place how to bake and measure in a special Valentine’s Day cooking class.

The sweetest victory isn’t in a game, but in a kitchen. Fourth grade teacher Mrs. Jenny Nichols hosts baking competitions in her home for elementary, middle and high school students and adults in the community, giving them the opportunity to grow in their cooking skills and have community with others. On Friday, Nov. 14, Mrs. Nichols is hosting a holiday baking competition for middle and high school students. The evening will feature a cake showdown with festive flavors in a community environment.

Many classes occur throughout the year, typically lasting about three hours. Mrs. Nichols teaches specific baking skills for the first hour and then releases the participants to bake competitively. In the summer, Mrs. Nichols hosts baking camps where students will learn how to bake. On the last day, there is usually a competition. 

“One thing we made was pavlova,” eighth grader Sarah Partain said about what they baked a couple years ago. “We had to separate the egg whites from the eggs, and then mix it until it had soft peaks. Then we added sugar slowly until it was fully dissolved [and] kept mixing until the [dough became] stiff peaks. [We] then placed a dollop onto a pan then baked it. That was my favorite thing we ever made.” 

In these baking classes, Mrs. Nichols includes everyone, even those with dietary restrictions. 

Freshman Violet Hewitt said that Mrs. Nichols made sure that everything she made was with dairy-free ingredients, still allowing her to participate in the joy of baking. Participants who have allergies feel seen and valued through Mrs. Nichols’ dedication to customizing their experience.

“I have great compassion for those with allergies,” Mrs. Nichols said. “My own son suffers from Celiac disease which means he cannot eat gluten. I never want anyone to feel left out or believe that they cannot enjoy delicious food just because they have an allergy.”

These welcoming classes allow the opportunity for friends and siblings from all over the community to bake together in a competitive and enjoyable environment. 

“It was really fun, and I definitely want to go back,” eighth grader Emily Orr said. “I always go with my sister, which is fun.”

Several students who have participated in these baking classes return or express wanting to. Hewitt said that even though she has only been to one of Mrs. Nichols’ cooking camps, she would really love to go again.

Many students have expressed their love for fellowship and team-building experienced in the baking environment. Partain said that the baking classes have improved her skills. Baking with others creates stronger friendships, increased knowledge and growth of skills.

“One of the things I love is creating community, but also challenging students to do more than just the basics,” Mrs. Nichols said.