Culinary Institute

Dare County Schools played host to NCDPI's NC K-12 Culinary Institute workshop this summer, drawing school nutrition professionals from across the state to First Flight High School. The purpose of the workshop is to teach best practices and elevate the quality and appeal of nutritious meals served in our schools.

During the workshop, participants immersed themselves in a diverse array of instructional segments, covering essential culinary skills such as knife techniques, precise measuring, just-in-time food preparation, streamlined workflows, efficient equipment utilization, and the art of quality food preparation and service for a variety of ingredients, including meats, grains, fruits, vegetables, and condiments.

Participants left the workshop not only armed with newfound knowledge but also with essential tools of the trade. Small wares, kitchen utensils, and the iconic chef's hats and aprons were provided to equip them as they become culinary ambassadors at their home school. 

Dare County's Culinary Ambassadors

Among the enthusiastic group of workshop attendees, four remarkable members of Dare County Schools' nutrition team emerged as graduates of the K-12 Culinary Institute.

• Lindsay Bailey, Manteo Elementary School
• Cheryl Black, Nags Head Elementary School
• Patty Culb, First Flight Elementary School
• Lauri Westphal, Manteo High School

These Chef Ambassadors are prepared to mentor and instruct other school nutrition professionals, sharing their passion and culinary knowledge to elevate our school meal offerings.

As an added bonus, some of the recipes developed during the NC K-12 Culinary Institute will soon grace our school lunch menus.