County Connections: LHS Culinary Arts program is training the chefs and restauranteurs of the future
“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” - Hippocrates
While experience is a way to perfect any skill, the inclusion of service learning can offer innovative ways to nourish our minds and our hearts.
The Lancaster High School Culinary Arts program offers just such an experience. A two-year culinary arts program for juniors and seniors, LHS features an advanced curriculum for students interested in careers as chefs, restaurateurs, caterers, or other culinary professionals.
“Lancaster High School is unique because we house our own program. I love it. It’s a great school and our program is really on a college level,” explained Jeffrey Cecil, Culinary Arts Career Technical Instructor.
With a focus on not only building knowledge, but confidence, Cecil’s students are provided with opportunities to participate in competitions throughout the year, sometimes on the national level. The result of these competitions can be job placements, credentials – such as those from the American Culinary Federation – and necessary exposure to industry experts.
Another aspect that differentiates Cecil’s program is that, while many culinary arts programs focus on line cook training and restaurant work, his students receive hands-on experience with catering and menu creation.
“Catering is really different because it is focused on producing large amounts of food and the students can showcase creativity,” Cecil shared.
In order to ensure a broad spectrum of catering experiences for his students, Cecil coordinates real-world projects, including menu creation and meal provision for community events.
Recent organizations to work with Cecil’s students include the Lancaster-Fairfield Chamber of Commerce and AHA! A Hands-on Adventure.
Such partnerships provide culinary practice while introducing students to local nonprofits, developing a future generation of leaders.
Menus for such events are designed in collaboration with the students, building upon their creativity and cultivating their skill sets. And though the students are learning, the quality of their creations is undeniable - combining both practicality and artistry in a student-driven learning process.
“The students are amazing. They just get better and better during the year,” Cecil affirmed.
Popular items made available by the students include puff pastry dishes, charcuterie boards, chocolate ganache, Belgian endive with goat cheese mousse, crostini and more. Moreover, meal options can be customized to reflect the organization’s budget and audience.
While there is a cost for these catered options, Cecil affirmed that the goal isn’t about generating profit. Instead, the hope is to provide the students with an exciting catering experience, while increasing awareness and supporting the community. It is also important to note that revenue generated from the catering agreements is reinvested into the program, providing students with even more learning opportunities.
Although the school year will be wrapping up soon for Cecil’s students, which will reduce catering capacity, the fall will increase resource availability.
Those seeking more information about an LHS Culinary Arts collaboration are encouraged to email Jeff Cecil directly at j_cecil@lcsschools.net or to call 740-687-7390.
“The students are just amazing. There is so much more to this than just cooking,” Cecil concluded.
Friday, May 27, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., don’t miss the return of Lancaster Bandstand. The first performance of the season will feature local favorites, Bad Influence. Concert will take place at Zane Square and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Ordering from local restaurants will be available, as well as the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area. For more information, please visit lancasterparks.com/special-events/friday-night-band-stand.
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This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: LHS Culinary Arts program is training the chefs and restauranteurs of the future
