Culinary students plan, prepare, and serve a meal of soup, salad, and bread for the Empty Bowls event.

Each April, under the guidance of teachers Jennifer Mogan and Chelsea Kleeman, Tell City High School students take the lead in hosting the annual Empty Bowls event, a collaborative project between the ceramic and culinary programs that blends hands-on learning with meaningful community service. The event bridges the Civic Arts and Culinary Arts graduation pathways to raise funds for local food pantries while giving students the opportunity to apply their skills in a real- world setting.

Ceramic students handcraft colorfully glazed stoneware bowls that are purchased by patrons as part of their meal. Through this process, students learn design, craftsmanship, and problem-solving, while also understanding how art can communicate a larger message.

Culinary students plan, prepare, and serve a meal of soup, salad, and bread, gaining valuable experience in menu planning, food preparation, teamwork, and service.

The event also includes a bake sale, silent auction, and student art show, further highlighting student creativity and entrepreneurship. These components encourage collaboration across disciplines and give students experience interacting with the public and promoting their work in a live event setting.

Most importantly, Empty Bowls connects student learning to a real community need. Proceeds from the event are donated to local food pantries, allowing students to see firsthand how their efforts support neighbors facing food insecurity. This experience fosters empathy, civic responsibility, and a deeper understanding of how their talents can make a positive impact.

The Empty Bowls event is more than a fundraiser — it exemplifies the practice-based, hands-on education that is valued at Tell City High School, providing meaningful learning experiences that teach students the value of collaboration, service, and how to use their skills to strengthen their community.

In addition to Civic Arts and Culinary Arts, other pathways offered at Tell City High School include Automotive Services, Marketing and Sales, AG and Mechanical Engineering, Education Careers, Industrial Tech: Maintenance and Electrical, Social and Community Services, Welding Technology, and Aviation Management. These pathways provide valuable skills and preparation needed for career readiness.

Empty Bowls Event Details

Date: Friday, April 24 

Time: 5-7 p.m. 

Location: TCHS Cafeteria 

Cost: $20 per person (includes bowl & meal)