At The Sylvia Center, some of our most memorable lessons happen outside the classroom.
Recently, students in our Cooks for Health Teen program spent the day at the New York Restoration Project, where they explored the connections between gardening, cooking, and caring for the environment.
The day began with hands-on work in the garden, as students helped build mushroom beds and harvested cucumbers, jalapeños, and fresh coriander. Back in the outdoor kitchen, those same ingredients became a delicious lunch of mushroom tacos with homemade salsa, giving students the chance to see the journey from garden to plate in real time.
The group also explored the Harlem River waterfront, learning how parks, waterways, and community green spaces contribute to healthier neighborhoods and stronger local food systems.
Field trips like these help bring our curriculum to life. By stepping into gardens, kitchens, and community spaces across New York City, students build practical culinary skills while developing a deeper understanding of where food comes from and the people who grow it.
We’re grateful to our friends at the New York Restoration Project for welcoming our students and helping make learning such a hands-on experience!
