The high school’s culinary arts program was the recent recipient of a generous donation from the Rotary Club of Sonoma Valley. Brigetta Crews, culinary arts instructor, received the $1800 check from Rotarian Bob Kweller during a lunchtime meeting where members of the club were treated to a culinary feast, courtesy of the students.
“The Rotary has always been a big supporter of our program so this year, we went all out with totally organic fare,” said Crews. “The menu and the food were all prepared by the students and it was a wonderful lunch.”
The culinary arts program is currently in its 11th year at the high school. On average, 25 students take the class as an elective each year, with an enrollment of half boys and half girls. Many students in the class are already gainfully employed in the food service industry and plan to continue their education at two- or four-year colleges.
“One of our male students is in training at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn,” said Crews. “And, as a career choice some students are interested in baking and pastry, others are into the management end, while a few want to be chefs or own their own food-based businesses.”
The program consists of both a food and nutrition component in the first year, followed by the culinary arts class in the second year. Culinary arts is a very hands-on commercial cooking class, stresses Crews. However, there is also a textbook, lectures and a written component to adhere to state standards. Right now, the students are readying a meal for 350 people for the senior board presentations, their biggest event of the year.
“Being served this wonderful food prepared by these hard working, creative, talented students in their kitchen classroom is an incredible way to experience the importance of this program at the high school,” said Rich Lee, president of the Rotary Club.
“We’re delighted with the donation,” said Crews.
The Rotary Club of Sonoma Valley meets weekly, supports the Sonoma Valley community in raising funds and conducts service projects locally and worldwide.
