Ponitz teams up with local eatery

A global culinary journey awaits Ponitz Career Tech Center students enrolled in the school’s culinary program.

They will visit the kitchens of restaurants in London, Florence, Rome and Paris in June.

“This is better than giving them homework from a book,” Ponitz instructor and executive chef Anthony T. Head said. “This is real, hands-on experience from real-world chefs — the best in the industry’s global repertoire. “

Hospitality consultant Chris Dimmick and Chris Harrison, owner of the downtown restaurant Table 33, honored the partnership of a local public school and a local restaurant by creating “Pave the Path,” a $60 per plate fund-raiser, Jan. 27. The money raised will help the 12 seniors get to their European destinations.

“This kind of transformational experience is going to change lives and we are thrilled to be a part of making this dream come true,” Dimmick said.

The students helped prepare the menu, which included British-inspired appetizers, soups and salads with a Parisian touch, entrées with Florentine flavor and delicious desserts from Rome.

The Ponitz culinary program offers students a three-year industry immersion opportunity to learn hospitality management, culinary arts and tourism. By graduation, their credits are equal to a mid-level industry position.