News Details

Savory toasted bread, fresh garlic, and the sweet, herbaceous aroma of basil and ripe tomatoes filled the kitchen at Sunnyvale Middle School as seventh- and eighth-grade food and nutrition students worked in small groups to prepare homemade bruschetta with a tomato-basil relish.

Under the guidance of teacher Alex Herrera, the two-day lesson began with a focus on preparation, nutrition, and safety, followed by a day of cooking and collaboration. Students reviewed proper knife techniques, practiced communicating clearly while handling tools, and reinforced kitchen habits like sanitizing surfaces and safely storing ingredients. Once the chopping began, the kitchen buzzed with laughter, focus, and the unmistakable energy of learning by doing.

“I really enjoy this class because it’s extremely hands-on and we get to make a lot of cool dishes,” said seventh-grader Avery Laneve. “Thank you, Mr. Herrera, for making this class so much fun. I’m really looking forward to learning and making more this year.”

The Sunnyvale Spartans are off to a delectable start this school year, already serving up an impressive menu of student-made favorites, including Spam musubi, pancakes, omelets, Rice Krispies, ranch dressing, and more.

“This has been an interesting school year since we’re in a temporary lab while our district is making bigger moves for our program and school facilities,” Herrera said. “The students are engaged, a fun bunch, and I’m really loving this school year. I’m grateful to the district for making the necessary upgrades for our Spartan students.”

In Herrera’s kitchen, food and nutrition mean more than just cooking. Along with crafting recipes and sharing their dishes with peers, students explore the nutritional value behind each meal and the importance of understanding what they eat.

“Beyond the cooking, I like knowing the nutritious benefits of the stuff we make,” said seventh-grader Kevin Vasquez. “For bruschetta, it has tomatoes, which are good for your heart, skin and blood pressure. Learning about the nutrition part helps us understand what we’re putting into our bodies and makes cooking a lot more rewarding.”

Sunnyvale Middle School is on the brink of a new era, continuing to advance its campus modernization and construction plans, including a new culinary classroom slated for completion in August 2027. 

“Food and nutrition are important for a multitude of reasons, and giving our students the space to explore the nuances of culinary arts, wellness, and teamwork is essential to their learning,” said Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite, Ph.D. “We are so proud of the work Mr. Herrera is doing and of his flexibility while we create a new space that reflects Sunnyvale’s focus on innovation, opportunity, and student growth. I’m excited to stop by and share the enthusiasm and flavors our Spartan students bring to the kitchen.”