Kentucky ranks number one among all 50 states in obesity at a rate of 23.8% of youth ages 10 to 17, according to The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (n.d.).  Overweight (body mass index >85th percentile for sex and age) and obese (body mass index >95th percentile for sex and age) in youth have emerged as a major health concern. In an effort to combat childhood obesity and its lifelong effects the Kenton County Family and Consumer Sciences agent collaborated with the Youth Service center Coordinators at Dixie Heights and Simon Kenton High schools to teach 28 students at in six sessions using the curriculum “Teen Cuisine”. Each week the Family and Consumer Sciences agent demonstrated a food preparation skill which included, knife skills, measuring techniques recipe reading,.MyPlate, ways to increase fruit and vegetable consumption.  The youth practiced how to properly chop an onion, made guacamole, colorful quesadillas, Waldorf salad and omelets.   The hands on activities provided an opportunity for the students to learn in a safe environment and allowed a fun and interactive exchange of ideas for new recipes while promoting healthy eating.  During the program youth were heard saying, “I didn’t think I would like that”, “I would have never eaten an avocdo on my own.", "I will try making this recipe for my family"

In a post class survey the following results were gathered:

100 % of the youth revealed they learned one or more knife skills

85% said they tried one or more new fruits or vegetables during the class

95% did not know the difference between a dry measuring cup and wet measuring cup prior to class.

100% where excited to practice one or more of cooking skills once they go home.

As a result of the program at the high scools, additional nutrition and cooking basics lessons are to be taught thoughout the school year to involve more students.