Monroe High students graduate from UGA’s Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) after completion of Teen Cuisine Course

ALBANY, Ga. – A graduation in October? Yes, you heard me right, Monroe High School just let the students walk across the stage after completing the Teen Cuisine Course over the past few weeks.

Students completed a health and nutrition course where they learned how to read labels properly and understand what they’re putting into their bodies, making their graduation a big celebration once the course was completed.

“It inspires them. We’re all about inspiring the kids. Especially for the hard work that they’ve put in. I tell them that things given is always earned. And, this was earned today. There was about 140 students that attended these classes and gave their all while they attended. So, it was worthwhile. And I think, you saw how excited they were also. So we’re excited, they’re excited, it’s a win-win situation,” said Vanessa Washington, Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)  Teacher for Georgia.

Something I noticed is that the students supported each other.

Clapping and celebrating for everyone on stage as there names were called.

There was a sense of great accomplishment, with many sharing how they believed this course would benefit them in the future.

“You gotta stay away from unhealthy food. If you eat unhealthy food it’ll affect you, conditioning wise game wise any situation,” said Nehemiah Tinch, Monroe High Student Athlete.

“See, you learn like, what food is bad for your body. If you eat horrible food before the game you might feel sluggish or cramp up. So, it just helps us know what to put in our body,” said Jordan Washington, Monroe High Student Athlete.

Students emphasized that the knowledge gained from the class will empower them to make healthier food choices, leading to improved well-being.

Gabe Hutton reporting.

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