Sanger High School Launches State-of-the-Art Culinary Classroom

Sanger High School in California has unveiled a new culinary arts classroom designed to provide students with practical training in a professional kitchen environment. Major renovations were completed over the summer, transforming the space into a fully equipped culinary lab that includes prep stations, cooking areas, and modern technology.

The culinary instructor, Desiree Domenici, brings a wealth of experience to the classroom, having worked at high-profile events, including the Grammys and Oscars. She emphasized the realistic design of the space, stating, “So it, generally, is very real, from the three-compartment scenes to the very small lab stations.” This hands-on approach is intended to prepare students for careers in the culinary industry.

The upgrades to the classroom are significant. Senior Makayla Martin, who has taken two years of culinary courses and now serves as a teacher’s assistant in Domenici’s class, described the transformation: “A whole 360. Completely different.” The previous setup with desks has been replaced by functional prep stations, allowing for a more immersive learning experience.

According to Kirstin Coronado, the Sanger Unified Area Superintendent, the district worked in partnership with Valley ROP to secure a grant that funded the renovations. Maintenance crews worked diligently throughout the summer to realize this vision. Coronado highlighted the importance of such spaces, stating, “We like to pride ourselves in providing multifaceted types of opportunities for all students,” ensuring they are equipped with diverse skills for the job market.

Fabrizio Lofaro, Superintendent for Valley ROP, stated that the objective is to provide students with exposure to workplace learning from industry professionals. He remarked, “So all of that sets them apart, because they know what the industry wants, what the standards are, how to conduct yourself, how to train.”

Domenici noted that even students with minimal cooking skills, such as only knowing how to prepare cereal, leave her class equipped with essential kitchen knowledge. They learn about cleanliness, sanitation, knife safety, and handling. “By the end of the year, and if they take this class my second year for advanced, they’re like, 100% ready for industry,” she explained.

Students have the opportunity to showcase their skills in various competitions throughout the year. Makayla will participate in four competitions, allowing her to demonstrate the culinary techniques she has mastered in the new classroom.

With these updates, Sanger High School not only enhances its culinary program but also prepares its students for successful careers in a competitive industry. The new classroom serves as a testament to the district’s commitment to providing quality education and real-world experience.