Careers Through Culinary Arts Program Inc

  “Culinary” gives students a sense of purpose; but, to succeed, they need to practice their skills outside the classroom.  Experienced culinary teachers often work with students at the end of the school day and on weekends during the competition cycle maintaining their enthusiasm for this career field.

Anecdotally we learn of culinary students who, because they have a passion for this field, stay in school and graduate rather than dropping out.  One Gilbert high school student had a .9 grade point average (GPA) at the end of his junior year.  Everyone had given up on him including his parents.  He wanted to go into the culinary class.  The teacher said he could come in the class if he gave up drugs and alcohol and worked in class.  He raised his GPA to 2.3 overall in a year.  With his skill, he won a full culinary scholarship and graduated 2nd in his class.  He is a successful chef today.

Whether students receive scholarships or simply participate in the culinary education program, they gain life skills for everyday living and for immediate employment in restaurants, hospitals and cafeterias.

Effective teachers are the heart of the program and its success.  They provide the skills training and practice opportunities for youth in the classroom and after school.  With sufficient skills, students can often qualify for immediate employment and compete for substantial culinary scholarships to continue their education after high school graduation.