On Monday July 22 2019, Katie G. and Chase L., high school graduates of The Calais School, earned their certificates of completion for The County College of Morris’ pilot Culinary Opportunity Program (COP). The 8-week program is designed to provide adults with disabilities with the training and qualifications to work in a range of food production environments including restaurants, cafeterias, specialty shops and ice cream shops.

The Culinary Opportunity Program is a huge step toward addressing the growing need to provide adults with developmental disabilities with greater opportunities. A need that The Calais School has also been addressing through in-house Transition Programs designed to expose students to vocational skills, independent living skills, and 21st century life and career skills.

“Going to CCM for the Culinary Opportunity Program has been a great experience. The professor and assistants care greatly about the students in the class, and the class size is limited to a maximum of eight students so that everyone can get the help they need to succeed.” explained Katie G., graduating senior at The Calais School.

COP, which began on May 20th, is offered through the CCM Center for Workforce Development.  To complete the 80 hour program students attended twice a week for five hour sessions. Coursework included Serv-Safe food handling, cooking traditions, modern cooking and the potential of a 40-hour additional work opportunity.

“The program has given our students the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue employment and independence. The Calais Community is extremely proud of our students’ accomplishments and look forward to future student participation.” explained Steve Sokolewicz, Assistant Principal at The Calais School.

During the completion ceremony, students received a certificate from Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill to celebrate their accomplishments. Paul Licitra, chair of the CCM Board of Trustees, CCM President Anthony J Iacono, parents, and other invited guests were treated to a luncheon prepared by the students.