The Calais School is happy to welcome back Chef James Grier as part of a series of visits to our Science of Cooking classes. Mr. Grier and Calais teacher Mrs. Russo have been working with our CTE students  during our Life Skills Foods presentation series. This series allows students to explore careers in the food service industry or just prepare delicious, healthy food for themselves.

As part of The Calais School’s CTE culinary arts curriculum,  guest visits from professionals like Chef Grier supplement CTE academic content with skills-based learning in the kitchen to create pathways to industry-recognized credentials and post-secondary training.

Topics covered include proper food prep and safety. Students learn the fundamentals of good nutrition and use a variety of healthy, fresh  ingredients for their recipes. Last week, students made delicious pasta salad and bruschetta with fresh French bread and tomatoes.

Chef Grier will visit us throughout the month of May to share his recipes and expertise about the food service industry. He is the owner and chef for The Gourmet Exchange in Sussex, NJ and his work has been featured at Farmers Markets and festivals throughout New York and New Jersey. Established in 2004, The Gourmet Exchange specializes in making infused olive oils, provides private catering, and offers a selection of specialty foods and desserts inspired by the seasons.

We look forward to seeing what Chef Grier and our students will whip up for us tomorrow!