Culinary Arts serves up success at EHS
The CTE Culinary Arts program at Eastpointe High School continues to grow and thrive, as an increasing number of students dive into Foods and Hospitality classes led by Chef Candace Shoemake.
The Foods and Hospitality classes offer a combination of academic and technical skills, both inside and outside the kitchen. Students have the opportunity to earn several industry standard certifications including the National Restaurant Association’s SERV Safe Managers certification and the Allergen Certificate that is accredited by ANSI.
The program also offers many leadership opportunities that help support employability and career readiness, such as visits to professional restaurants, resume building activities, and visits from industry professionals.
This school year, culinary students have hosted a Board of Education appreciation luncheon and honor roll breakfasts for students and their families, giving them the opportunity to plan, prepare, and serve multiple courses. For the luncheon, students prepared everything for a three course meal from scratch, from the Caesar salad dressing and croutons to the pasta and alfredo sauce. At one of the breakfasts, they served madeto-order crepes and omelets. This month, several students will participate in the statewide Michigan ProStart competition in categories that include culinary, nutrition, tabletop design, and more.
Several students that have graduated from the program in recent years have gone on to work in the industry or are gaining post-secondary knowledge in an accredited culinary program.