Planning
In partnership with Superior CVI administration, a team from Roots CFC met with students to design a menu that reflected the diversity within the school community. Students quickly discovered that their families’ culinary traditions varied widely, offering an opportunity to celebrate that richness through food.
After two lunchtime planning sessions, a draft menu began to take shape. The final selections were guided by practical considerations—such as who would prepare each dish, and whether the cooks had the necessary time, space, equipment, and experience to produce large quantities.
Roots CFC prioritized student involvement, supported by community partners who have been integral to the Iftar since it began in 2023. Guest chefs, parents, and Roots staff helped broaden the menu to include a range of traditional and community-friendly dishes that everyone could enjoy.
Two Family Studies teachers and their Food and Nutrition classes were also key collaborators. Working with Roots CFC, they helped prepare dishes, learn new cooking skills, and gain hands-on experience in large-scale meal preparation.
Collaboration
Hosting an event like Iftar requires deep collaboration and shared purpose. The success of this year’s celebration reflects the combined efforts of students, staff, and community partners who worked together to make the evening meaningful and memorable.
Student involvement included: an MC, two hosts, a Quran reciter, a planning committee, content creators, decorators, setup and cleanup crews, bussers, and dishwashers. Students promoted the event through social media, posters, school announcements, and classroom visits. They also helped design the menu, coordinate logistics, and develop a post-event survey.
