Food Lab 

What is Food Lab?

LOSD Food Lab aims to create diverse learning environments, fostering the development of life skills and providing nutrition education for students to enhance their overall wellness and understanding of food. 

Kelsey Perusse, Director of Child Nutrition, leads this program, overseeing the culinary program and offering nutrition education at a district level. The primary focus of Food Lab is the preparation of scratch-cooked meals with students to be served during school meal services. These initiatives aim to support students in developing life, social, and academic skills, particularly in math and science. Cooking classes concentrate on breakfast, lunch, and supper items, salad bar selections, and special items for occasions like holidays or theme weeks. The engagement of students in meal preparation encourages district-wide participation in school meal programs, knowing that their peers have contributed to the food. Food Lab is currently active at Del Mar Elementary School's LEAP program, Ocean Alternative Elementary, and Cypress High School, with plans to expand to Shoreline Middle School. The overarching goals include increasing nutrition knowledge and life skills to foster wellness in students, along with boosting participation in school meals district-wide.

Scott Felgner, Brigaid Chef for Live Oak School District.  Scott is the lead instructor for Food Lab. Prior to joining Brigaid, he prepared meals for Head Start children in Sonoma County while also baking sourdough bread at a local bakery in Santa Rosa. Passionate about community impact, Scott shifted his career to focus on upstream solutions in school nutrition, believing in the power of healthy meals to foster positive change. Based in the Santa Cruz region, he brings hands‑on culinary experience and a commitment to serving youth through thoughtful, nourishing food programs.

Mission Statement

To promote wellness, nutrition knowledge, and life and academic skills among the students in our district through a cooking and nutrition education program that will have a positive impact district-wide. 

Vision Statement

To support a thriving community of students equipped with the knowledge and tools to promote their health and wellness throughout their lives.