The executive staff members of Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation (JCNI) were treated to a delicious breakfast prepared by students of Samuel Morse High School’s Culinary Arts Program. The students receive training by one of the industry’s best, Chef Greg Braham. “I got involved because I understand there is a problem with the health of the youth. I’m here at Morse High School to teach the kids not only how to cook but how to cook in a healthy manner,” said Chef Greg. First year student in the culinary arts program, Jared Reyes echoed Chef Greg’s statement, “I really like the program; you get to learn more about food and the healthy ways to prepare it.”
These students are not only learning about food and cooking but also valuable life skills that will serve them well in any career path they happen to pursue. “Even if they are not going into the culinary arts or into nutrition education field, all the skills they learn in our classes are transferable to other type of job that they may undertake. They learn to work in teams, learn to collaborate, share ideas and work fast and productively,” stated Jackie Schaffer, nutritionist and teacher at Morse High School.
However, the students who do aspire to enter the hospitality field gain a head start. According to San Diego Region Regional Economic Development Corporation, the convention and visitor industry is the third largest industry in San Diego, employing approximately 160,000 people in a variety of positions including lodging, food service, attractions, and transportation.
The Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation is proud to support programs like the Culinary Arts Program. If you or your organization has an idea or program you’d like to draw attention to, we’d love to hear it!
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