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‘Pathways’ lays out a plan for Harlem High School students; The ‘culinary field’ is definitely now an option
MARGARET DOWNING PHOTO The Journal
Family Consumer Science department chair Jacqualine Mitchel (left) and Erin Watson, of Harlem High School, are pictured.
Times have surely changed since the 1910 founding of Harlem School District #122!
In past times, many older high school attendees most likely remember “good old Home Economic” courses where we basically “learned how to cook,” including food preparation and how to set a table! There is so much more to it nowadays.
Harlem’s recent upgrade to the building follows along with the district’s “pathway” vision for its graduates, including the culinary area.
The school district’s “Pathway” studies aims to give students foresight into available careers to aim for, such as the field of culinary career choices. It’s not just learning how to cook.
Under the “Pathway” plan, Harlem lists some important issues for students to consider: First off comes “Awareness – Determine a career pathway endorsement area of interest.
Review high school course options aligned to your interests; and explore those options,” advising students to meet with their school counselor, development of a four-year course plan, explore dual credit and advanced placement of course options, and attend College Planning and Financial Aid events,” which all helps students to develop a viable post-graduation plan for their futures.
One area well covered now includes jobs within the culinary field. Jacqualine Mitchel, Family Consumer Science department, and Erin Watson, culinary teacher, explained further what is involved in these types of career choices.
Mitchell emphasized how the field “through teaching, is finally coming together to support these types of industry driven jobs.” Within the culinary pathway the district utilizes two teaching positions and offers three different classes open to students with 24 students per class maximum.
Within the introduction to food services context, “how to be a successful adult within the industry is offered through culinary basics that are taught.”
Of much importance is the offering of culinary classes that train students on how to work within the kitchen or food prep area with problem solving skills in order to obtain a job. A culinary degree along with food handler’s certification is a definite priority in this industry.
