9th Grade English Teacher in Tulsa, OK – Tulsa School of Arts and Science
2023-24 Fellow: Emily Roiger has been teaching for 3 years. She first became interested in the Pilot Light Fellowship when she was able to hear from passionate Pilot Light leaders who explained the benefits of joyful classroom Food Education. Emily is looking forward to continuing to eat lunch with her students and exposing them to new appreciations for food during her time as a Fellow.
After leaving her home in Minnesota, Emily graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor’s in Journalism. One of her fondest memories is eating her way through Barcelona and its surrounding cities during her time interning aboard. In her free time, she enjoys restoring her historic home with her girlfriend, gardening, antique shopping, and exploring with her two dogs, Sunny and Bubby.
Favorite Food Education Standard: FES #3: Food and the Environment are Interconnected.
I have seen this fact influence my students in a negative way. The environments they live in create harsh and unhealthy relationships with food. I am dedicated to reframing this mindset in my students and helping them realize that the relationship between food and their environment can be positive.
A Favorite Food Memory or Recipe:
Every year, my paternal Grandmother would make a German feast for my dad and his siblings on Christmas Eve. My mom learned all of her recipes and has perfected them over the years. She cooks the same meal of sauerkraut, bread dumplings, and pork for my sister and me every Christmas. A few years ago, I was able to order this exact meal at a restaurant in Germany. My dad was so proud to know that I was eating his family’s favorite meal in the country from which it originated!
Why I Became a Fellow:
I am excited to connect with and learn from educators from around the country. I love food and love to be around other people who share that same admiration. Food has been such a positive and grounding influence in my life and as a teacher. I am excited to share that power with my students!
