Empowering Students Through Culinary Entrepreneurship: CCPS Launches CTE Express Food Truck

Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) is embarking on an innovative community project that combines Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs with hands-on learning opportunities for students. The centerpiece of this initiative is the CTE Express food truck, a decommissioned school bus that has been transformed into a mobile culinary hub, staffed by CCPS students enrolled in food service-based CTE programs.

Fueling Student Success and Community Engagement

Unveiling the CTE Express: A Culinary Classroom on Wheels

The CTE Express food truck is more than just a mobile eatery; it's a dynamic learning environment where students can apply their culinary skills and gain valuable work-based experience. Staffed by students from the Culinary Arts CTE program at North Point High School and the ProStart: Food and Beverage Management pathway, the truck will make its debut at upcoming community events, showcasing the talents of these aspiring chefs and food service professionals.Through the CTE Express, students will have the opportunity to manage various aspects of the food service industry, including menu planning, food ordering, customer service, cost analysis, and community engagement. This hands-on experience not only enhances their technical skills but also fosters essential business acumen and entrepreneurial mindsets.

Expanding Culinary Opportunities Across the District

While the Culinary Arts program is exclusive to North Point High School, the ProStart food and beverage pathway is available at all CCPS high schools. This ensures that students across the district can participate in the CTE Express project, broadening the reach and impact of this innovative initiative.By engaging students from diverse backgrounds and schools, the CTE Express food truck serves as a unifying platform, fostering collaboration, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose among the district's future culinary leaders.

Bringing the Community Together Through Culinary Experiences

As the CTE Express food truck continues to roll out, community members will have the opportunity to experience the culinary talents of CCPS students firsthand. The truck will be present at various events, allowing residents to enjoy delicious food prepared and served by the students.This community engagement not only showcases the skills of the students but also serves as a catalyst for building stronger connections between the school district and the local community. By inviting the public to these events, CCPS is creating a platform for shared experiences, fostering a sense of pride and investment in the success of its CTE programs.

A Taste of the Future: The CTE Express Schedule

The CTE Express food truck is set to make its debut on Monday, October 7th, as part of the CCPS Lunch and Learn staff event for Hispanic Heritage Month at the Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building in La Plata. This event will feature culinary arts students from North Point High School, providing a glimpse into the truck's capabilities.In the coming weeks, the CTE Express will make appearances at other community events, including the Henry E. Lackey High School craft fair on October 12th and the Thomas Stone High School Trunk or Treat event on October 26th. At these events, students from the respective ProStart programs will take the lead, showcasing their skills and engaging with the public.As the CTE Express project continues to evolve, CCPS is committed to expanding its reach and providing more opportunities for students to showcase their talents and contribute to the community. This innovative initiative not only empowers students with practical skills but also serves as a bridge between the classroom and the real-world, preparing them for successful careers in the culinary and food service industries.