Southeast Culinary Students Succeed at ProStart Invitational

Students from the Culinary Arts program at Oakland Schools Technical Campus Southeast showcased their talent March 1-3 at the ProStart State Invitational in Battle Creek.

Eleven students competed in team and individual events that tested culinary skill, creativity, and teamwork under pressure. In the culinary team event, four cooks and one manager prepared a three-course meal in 60 minutes using only two butane burners. Their menu featured a New Orleans-style shrimp and grits cake, braised beef short rib with gnocchi, and a cherry-poached pear with custard for dessert. The team earned fifth place out of 25 teams statewide.

In individual competition, Demario Clemons placed fifth out of 50 students statewide in knife skills. The tabletop team also earned third place for its “Spring Has Sprung” themed tablescape and catering proposal, winning $1,000 scholarships to Michigan State University for each team member.

Students recognized in the competition were Demario Clemons, Mariah King, Terrin McCrary, Ti-Maiah Marshall, Sophia Monette, Hannah Lall, Jacob Osborne, Gabrielle Phillips, Whitney Blanton, Katlyn Mitchell, and Cincere Jefferson.