Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Susie Pickering
Oak Lane Day School
137 Stenton Avenue, Blue Bell, PA 19422
Phone: 610-825-1055
Fax: 610-825-9288
Email: spickering@oaklanedayschool.org

Extended Day Program Features Innovative Chef

Chef and artist Kelly Fischer visited Oak Lane Day School's Extended Day program and delighted the children as she turned fruits and vegetables into amazing creatures and creations that were as beautiful as they were delicious.

A graduate of Bucks County Community College Culinary Apprenticeship Program, Fischer introduced the students to exotic fruits such as cumquats, blood oranges, and kiwi fruit as she enthusiastically explained the importance of eating varied fruits and vegetables for their wide assortment of nutrients. She also discussed the other components of a balanced diet and guided the children towards understanding the food pyramid and how to make healthy food choices.

Decorative food carving began in Thailand in the 1700s when women of the court cut intricate patterns into papayas and garnished them with hibiscus flowers to honor the king. Although Fischer's creations were somewhat more whimsical, the children watched her every move as she wielded her razor sharp knife. There before them emerged eggplant penguins, banana dachshunds, and delicate carrot roses complete with celery stems.

The chef's pleasure in her work was evident as she presented each piece. When asked why she chose her line of work, Fischer replied, "I love food, and I love art. I wanted to find a job that combined my passions. Also, it gives me an excuse to play with my food!" All joking aside, Fischer's message was clear: happiness is finding something you love to do and learning how to do it well.

At Oak Lane Day School, students are encouraged to find their own style of expression. The curriculum supports this from Language Arts and Specials such as Physical Education and Music all the way through to the Extended Day hours. On-going art projects, puppet shows, baking and special guests all present varied opportunities for children to "see themselves" and someday become innovative cooks, talented artists, actors or scientists themselves.

Oak Lane Day School Information
An independent elementary school, founded in 1916 and located in Blue Bell, Oak Lane Day School serves a diverse population of boys and girls. Oak Lane honors each child's unique individuality while fostering intellectual, creative, academic, and personal growth within a diverse community of active, engaged learners. Small class sizes and an atmosphere that encourages children to develop their academic and social skills are priorities at Oak Lane, where learning is a meaningful and joyous pursuit. Oak Lane's country-like property of 30 acres along Butler Pike and Stenton Avenue boasts a stream, pond, woods, meadows, and specimen trees as well as athletic fields and playgrounds.

Oak Lane Day School is accredited by the Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS), and is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and the Association of Delaware Valley Independent Schools (ADVIS).