Food is what humans rely on to survive, but baking is more than just a means of survival– it’s also a very popular hobby. There are thousands of different things that people can bake in the kitchen. Over 40 percent of Americans bake or cook for fun daily, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

Bellevue East students can participate in various classes at the school to help them learn how to cook and bake. These classes, including culinary courses, are some of the most popular electives.

“I think the hands-on labs are my favorite things when they’re engaged and they’re moving around the room,” culinary instructor Jennifer Cole said. 

These classes help students learn the basics of baking and culinary arts, and some teachers at Bellevue East even took those same classes when they were in school. Instructor Karin Donner took culinary classes while in school and still continues to bake in her leisure, as well as for other events such as weddings. 

“I feel like it’s something I’m good at,” Donner said. “I’m not a professional but it does bring me joy.It’s like a gift that I put some heart into, so I enjoy doing it.” 

According to cooking website Grandbaby Cakes, the best way to get into baking is to start simple and get to know your kitchen. Bellevue East’s introduction to baking and cooking classes include Foods and Nutrition as well as Culinary.

“I’ve baked for a lot of things, and just love to make cakes,” Donner said. 

According to Northern Healthcare, baking is very good for mental health, especially for teenagers. It gives students at school a time to work together and create something that they can enjoy. 

 “I like the idea of teaching life skills, something that I know they’ll take right out of this classroom and use,” Cole said.