Edmonton public school finds sweet way to fund art programming

Highlands School held its annual culinary arts 'cookie-off' where local businesses compete against students and community teams.

Professional and amateur bakers alike were vying for the title of best cookie on Saturday at the annual Highlands School Culinary Arts Cook(ie)-Off.

The friendly competition saw sweet contributions from local places like Backstairs Burger, Little Sweets and Emberly Bakery as well as student and community teams.

For the last five years, the public K-9 school has hosted some form of cook-off, live and online auction, with proceeds supporting its arts programming.

This year’s baking edition had competitors prove their creative chops. Featured flavours ranged from classic treats, like a brown butter mini egg cookie, to more outlandish creations, like a corn, toffee and rosemary venture.

Although the 16 teams were slated to sell cookies until 2 p.m., demand was high and supplies only last until just after noon.

“It’s so heartwarming to have such a strong community that supports us here, community that cares about public education,” said Cookie-Off crew member Rachael Tyler. “These funds go towards things like field trips for students, art supplies, equipment at the school, things that, sadly, aren’t funded.”

An online auction with more than 250 items donated by local businesses for the fundraiser is live until April 19.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Sean McClune