Every one of my third graders was at the 90th percentile in informational text and vocabulary last year [for the NWEA exam]. The only thing I do in informational text is Pilot Light. Whether it’s science or social studies, all of their reading for Pilot Light is informational text and nonfiction. So not only are they being more empathetic [as a result of the program], but because they’re so into what we’re doing with Pilot Light and the things that we’re reading about with Pilot Light, their test scores last year went through the roof! That’s the only change I’ve made to how I teach.”
– 3rd grade teacher, Ray Elementary

“In order for students to put more description into their writing, they need to be inspired by an event that inspires description, like Pilot Light. Students had more to work with, given the multi-sensory experience of the lesson. Students tried harder to capture their experiences—reaching harder for language to express themselves. The creative lesson inspired more creative responses.”
– 8th grade teacher, Dewey School of Excellence

“Kids are familiar with food, they’re interested in it, they love it. So when they bring their stories, they bring their voices, they bring their identities. And our lessons have an amazing ability to help us see our students as whole people rather than something we sort of just fill with facts. It becomes very collaborative. Kids are very interested. And I think Pilot Light lessons, I think lessons using food, become what education should be. That’s something that’s shared between a teacher and a student and as people with stories.”
– 19-20 Fellow, Disney II High School

“One thing that stands out is after our salad making activity, a lot of students shared that their outlook on salads was totally different. They felt way more positive about them. They didn’t realize how much flavor can go into a salad….And so it was really nice to see them play and experiment with all the color and all the flavor and just watch them enjoy all of it with their friends – this really communal thing. This was definitely an experience you know was going to stick with them in the long run. When I saw that, any time I saw a moment like that, that was the real marker of success for this program – when you know you’re having a real impact that’s actually going to stay.”
– 19-20 Fellow, Academy for Global Citizenship

“Pilot Light has had a huge impact on my class’s attendance and it is the highest it’s ever been. Food gives them something hands-on to do in the classroom. I realized that as long as they’re making or doing something with food, they’ll come to school for it.”
– 3rd Grade Teacher, Claremont Elementary

“I will keep doing Pilot Light lessons. I think I would continue to follow a similar design to this year with weekly-ish discussion/connection to food and at least 1 food experience a month. My students LOVE it and I’ve seen it very effectively connect them more deeply with the material.”
– 19-20 Fellow

“Pilot Light works, my kids love it and it makes my classroom more enjoyable for everyone.”
– 19-20 Fellow

“Pilot Light has helped me evolve as an instructor and has further challenged me as a teacher. Pilot Light is a wonderful opportunity for schools and scholars alike!”
– 19-20 Fellow

“Pilot Light works and I believe it is necessary in every classroom in every city.”
– 19-20 Fellow

“My daughter now loves to help in the kitchen and cook her own meals!”
– Pilot Light parent

“He was excited about eating more fruits and vegetables. A win for me. Keep them coming, please!”
– Pilot Light parent

“I feel that my child stopped eating a lot of junk food after she made her first Pilot Light recipe. She has enjoyed Pilot Light a lot.”
– Pilot Light parent