6th-8th Grade Teacher in Chicago, IL
Solomon Elementary School
2025-26 Fellow: Ms. DePaolo has been teaching for 3 years. They first became interested in the Pilot Light Fellowship when their Assistant Principal, a fellow Pilot Light alumni, referred this program. They are looking forward to collaborating with other teachers on how to provide food education in different ways and strengthening their teaching skills to implement meaningful food education during their time as a Fellow. She works with 6-8th grade students with disabilities in a self-contained classroom. She wants to provide effective food education to help develop her students’ cooking skills and food knowledge plus independence in making food decisions. Through food education, she hopes to provide inclusive opportunities for her students and the general education students to build a welcoming community through food and cooking.
Favorite Food Education Standard: FES #1: Food connects us to each other.
I resonate with FES 1: Food connects us to each other. I’ve always believed that food is more than just nourishment — it’s a universal language of care, culture, and connection. Food is one of the most accessible, universal experiences we all share — no matter our background, abilities, or differences. Everyone can participate in some way: through cooking, sharing, growing, or simply enjoying a meal together. Whether it’s gathering around a table with loved ones, sharing recipes passed down through generations, or tasting flavors from different parts of the world, food has a unique way of bringing people together. Food doesn’t require us to speak the same language or live the same life — it invites us in as we are. It creates space for inclusion, empathy, and belonging. Whether it’s a simple dish or a cultural tradition, food reminds us that we all have something to bring to the table.
A Favorite Food Memory or Recipe:
One of my favorite food memories comes from growing up in a big Italian family, where Christmas Eve is our most cherished holiday. It’s the one night of the year when we come together to cook and bake the special recipes that have been passed down through generations — dishes we only make on this night. The kitchen is always full of laughter, tradition, and the comforting aroma of familiar foods. Cooking together isn’t just about the meal — it’s how we connect, celebrate our roots, and create lasting memories as a family.
What I’m Most Excited About as a New Fellow:
I’m excited for the Food Education Fellowship because it gives me the opportunity to deepen our cooking lessons and explore new, creative ways to provide food education to my students. I’m also looking forward to connecting and collaborating with fellow educators who share the same passion for teaching through food.
