Scranton School District High School Culinary Competition
A major pillar of operational success stems from the seamless integration and partnership with our districts. Our specialty is derived from the extensive collaboration with our district, which allows us to develop impactful events that create joyous experiences and lasting memories for the students, parents, and community members we serve. Last year, the Aramark Student Nutrition team at Scranton School District hosted their annual Food Wars student culinary competition in celebration of National School Breakfast Week.
Located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the Scranton School District covers approximately 26 square miles and supports over 9,000 students within the large, urban city limits. Aramark Student Nutrition has been the food service provider for over 14 years, managing their culinary menus and operations across 15 schools throughout the district.
Initially piloted in 2018, the competition ran annually until the pandemic in 2020. Once the pandemic subsided, both the Aramark Student Nutrition team and the client agreed that 2023 would be the year to resume the competition, utilizing National School Breakfast Week as the perfect tie-in to generate buzz and community support.
In teams of two, 16 student chefs from three middle schools within the district competed in two rounds, tasked with constructing a unique breakfast dish from a collection of fresh ingredients using student-friendly kitchen equipment. Aramark Student Nutrition Chef Ryan Hauser and Food Service Director Aleaha Pachella supervised each team in providing cooking instructions and ensuring adherence to proper kitchen safety procedures. The student teams presented their dishes to a panel of judges consisting of a peer member, food service connoisseurs, Chef Derrick Carpenter, General Manager Precious Gilliard, and District Manager Amanda Wood.
“We were super excited to reinvigorate the Food Wars competition amidst the hiatus caused by the pandemic. Seeing the bright smiles and sheer excitement from our students as they work together to make these fun dishes is truly remarkable, especially to witness the start of their culinary journeys.”
After two days of action-packed full of cheering and amusement, one student team from Northeast Middle School took home the grand prize, which included a donation to their elementary school, Robert Morris, and bragging rights to next year’s event.
“Our mission for our district is to educate, inspire, and empower students,” said Pat Laffey, Interim Superintendent of Scranton District Schools. “This culinary competition encapsulates our vision, teaching students valuable life skills that enable their future success. Pulling off a spectacular event like this speaks of the talent and expertise of Aramark Student Nutrition and the value they bring to our district.”
Scranton School District plans to continue hosting its Food Wars culinary competition annually in partnership with Aramark Student Nutrition as it demonstrates our commitment to inspiring the foodies of the future and powering their potential to succeed.
