Published 11/16/2022

Kathleen Cluchey of Fort Worth ISD’s Young Women’s Leadership Academy is the Chopped Champion! 

The middle school pre-AP science teacher competed and won the title on the Thanksgiving-themed episode of the Food Network cooking show “Chopped” that aired Tuesday, Nov. 15.   

“When I won, it was hard to believe. I just couldn’t believe that I had actually done it because going into it, I had no clue how I would stack up against the other competitors. It was surreal,” she said. “I think my initial reaction didn’t even include words.”

Four teachers from across the nation, including Cluchey, appeared on the episode titled “Thankful for Teachers,” where they prepare a three-course meal, “share their love of cooking and their heartfelt stories of educating America’s children,” the episode’s summary states.  The show was filmed in February, and Ms. Cluchey said she has had to keep the secret about the show’s outcome all these months.

“I’m delighted that it is out there for everyone to see,” she said.  

Chopped’s “Thankful for Teachers” episode re-airs on the Food Network at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 22, and is available to stream on Discovery+.  

Congratulations, Ms. Cluchey!