Join the Excitement: Buckeye Students Take on the National Food Challenge!

**Buckeye Local High School’s culinary team recently made a splash at the Cook Around the World competition in Orlando.** The excitement was palpable as students showcased their skills, earning a special Judge’s Award for their stunning presentation.

Under the guidance of teacher Luke Fabry, two teams represented Buckeye, the only school from Ohio among 70 participating. Each team drew from a random selection that dictated their culture, protein, and four ingredients to create a dish. This year’s theme was “The European Continent.” The winning dish was a shrimp paella accompanied by a Mediterranean feta salad.

With only 90 minutes on the clock, teamwork was essential. Fabry praised his students, saying they delivered not just on taste but on vibrant presentation. “The judges commented on how beautiful the dish looked,” he said, beaming with pride. Buckeye Local scored 314 out of 400 points, a notable achievement!

The experience was not just about cooking. Students also attended a leadership seminar and learned about future careers in culinary arts and hospitality. They heard from chefs and college representatives, offering valuable insights into the industry.

Students expressed their enthusiasm. “It was awesome and exciting,” said Landon Durbin. Fellow teammate Sydney Snyder added, “It was different than I expected.” Allie Emfield reflected on the teamwork and camaraderie, saying it was “really special” to share the experience with friends.

Historically, this competition draws participants from schools across the country, fostering friendly rivalry and growth. Last year, one of Fabry’s teams placed fourth, close to clinching a top spot. Despite the hard work, he sees the value in these experiences. “They learn to perform under pressure,” he noted.

Looking ahead, Fabry is considering whether to return next year. He emphasized the immense effort behind preparing students for such events, noting they raised $27,000 in just four months to cover trip expenses.

This remarkable journey culminates in more than just culinary skills; it lays foundational experiences for young minds. As they blend culture with cuisine, they’re also cooking up memories that will last a lifetime.

In a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 75% of culinary students reported that hands-on experiences significantly enhance their learning. For the Buckeye students, this competition was a perfect example of that principle in action.

For further information about similar events, you can check out the resources from the National Restaurant Association [here](https://restaurant.org). It’s a great portal for aspiring chefs and culinary enthusiasts looking to dive deeper into their passions.

Source link

Community,Buckeye students compete at national food challenge eventNews,Buckeye students compete at national food challenge event