Evening Culinary Arts

Location: Regional Occupational Center

Fee: No cost to high school students; $2,200 for adults.

This combined foodservice course provides students training for employment in the foodservice industry. Students will acquire skills as a station cook, dishwasher, and restaurant entry-level cook as they develop skills in proper cleaning, maintenance, and sanitation of the kitchen. The course will also cover an introduction to baking, including bakery production and dessert decorating.

About the Teacher:

Chris Herstam received his BS in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Special Education and Early Childhood Development from Stephen F. Austin State University. He received his clear teaching credential from Point Loma University's Post Graduate Teaching and Administration Program. In addition to his special education clear credentials, he holds a CTE certification in Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation. His 20+ years of working in professional kitchens include working under Emeril Lagasse at the New Orleans Fish House (MGM Grand Las Vegas), serving as a Sous chef for Hayter House Restaurant (exotic game) and Union Cafe (Italian eatery), creating menus and organizing high volume catering for Piney Woods Country Club, and managing local restaurants. Mr. Herstam has 15-years teaching experience with KHSD including 11 years teaching culinary arts at Ruggenberg Career Center and 15-years coaching high school football. He is trained in Crisis Prevention and Intervention as well as SCERTS Communications. Hobbies include family time, playing guitar, and golfing.