I’ve noticed that I teach like I cook

I have a plan when I do both. But the menu itself changes with the freshest ingredients available at the local farmers market, who the students are in their communities.

It changes from year to year, based on who I am, and what I am interested and passionate about in the moment.

I am always balancing consistency with adventure and novelty, predictable recipes and routines [Hyperlink], with something new and interesting.

I never measure, but estimate by feel, constantly tasting and assessing until it tastes “right,” until learning ignites, comforts, nourishes. What makes me a good cook, also makes me a horrible baker :-) 

When I cook and teach, I focus intensively on the process, my moves, my flow, and the result is often that my audience appreciates the product. 

I love the economy of motion, the efficiency of the short order cook juggling a million motions, timed so that different meals come out at the same time. Different students, different flavors, one community.

And always, if I make a mistake, which I often do, there’s always the next time, the next day. 

….because both teaching and cooking are endlessly challenging, and messy as_________! 

[Insert Image of kitchen mess].

[Insert image of messy classroom.]

Gratitude: 

I am so thankful to all of the students I’ve learned, taught, and created with over the years. Thanks for going with the flow and having faith that we would end up with some tasty dish even when you had never heard of most of the items on the menu :) 

I’m also grateful to two of my own amazing teachers/mentors, Joe McDonald and Ruben Carriedo [https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=3692052570805394&id=205240409486645&set=a.2176838695660130],  two lovers of food and great cooks, who taught me so much, and first got me thinking about the similarities between teaching and cooking. 

Invitation: Are there other ways you think teaching is like cooking? Would love to hear them in the comments below!

The Rabbit Hole: 

Curious about healthful recipes for busy educators and leaders, and powerful teaching routines and protocols I’ve collected, created, or adapted over the years, check out my Recipes and Routines page [Hyperlink] and add your own to collection for others to enjoy!