The Culinary Arts Program at St. Lucie West Centennial High School has been awarded a $5,000 Mini Grant from the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association Educational Foundation (FRLAEF). The award was announced following a statewide review of proposals submitted by Florida’s ProStart and Hospitality & Tourism Management educators, with funding provided to support and strengthen career and technical education programs across the state.
This grant represents a significant investment in culinary education and will provide enhanced opportunities for students to develop industry skills, gain hands-on experience, and train with equipment that reflects real-world professional kitchens. The funding will help further elevate a program that continues to grow through industry partnerships, workforce development initiatives, culinary competitions, guest chef experiences, and nationally recognized career pathways.
St. Lucie West Centennial’s Culinary Arts program is committed to preparing students for success in the restaurant, hospitality, and tourism industries while helping them earn valuable industry certifications and explore post-secondary education and career opportunities.
The award underscores the impact of career and technical education in St. Lucie County and recognizes the outstanding work being done to connect students with meaningful, career-focused learning experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.
The Culinary Arts program extends its sincere appreciation to the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association Educational Foundation for its support of hospitality education and its continued investment in Florida’s future workforce.
