6th-7th Grade Math and Science Teacher, Feeding Futures Fellow
Perkins-Bass Elementary School
Ms. Secka is entering her 13th year as a Diverse Learner Teacher and is currently working at Perkins Bass Elementary as a Middle School DL Teacher. She was introduced to the Pilot Light Fellowship by colleagues who participated in Pilot Light in previous years. She is excited about being able to integrate Food Education into their existing curriculum while providing students with engaging learning experiences that will enhance the quality of their lives. Ms. Secka was born in Gambia, West Africa and raised in Chicago. She is a product of the Chicago Public School System. She received her Bachelors in Secondary Social Studies Education and her Masters in Cross Categorical Special Education from The University of Missouri. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and traveling.
Favorite Food Education Standard: FES #2: Foods have sources and origins.
As someone who loves to travel, my favorite food standard is- foods have sources and origins. I look forward to exploring and exposing my students to diverse cultures and backgrounds through Food Education.
A Favorite Food Memory or Recipe:
My favorite food memories are learning how to make delicious Gambian dishes from my Mother and Aunties! They are amazing cooks and I genuinely cherish the times I spend learning from them.
What I’m Most Excited About as a Feeding Futures Fellow:
Pilot Light emphasizes the connection between food, culture, and community, which is particularly relevant in our diverse and multicultural school environment. By exploring different cultural foods and traditions, students can develop a greater appreciation for diversity while also recognizing the commonalities that unite us through food. This can foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity among students, regardless of their backgrounds.
