Renee Marazon, Superintendent of The Maritime Academy of Toledo, announced today that the school will introduce a new Culinary Arts Program beginning with the 2011 – 2012 school year.

The course will be taught by Chef Gary Jones, FMP.    Jones, who lives in Sandusky, OH, is also a recognized expert in the field of food safety and sanitation by the National Restaurant Association.  

One of three maritime career pathways at The Maritime Academy is the steward department which on land translates to the culinary arts. 

“As everyone knows, school systems are in challenging financial times.   Some area schools have had to cut their culinary arts program. We recognize that there is a void that needs to be filled for the students with this passion.  We wanted a program that provided a solid foundation for those who wish to pursue the culinary arts in higher education, or wanted career opportunities either on land or at sea,” said Ms. Marazon. 

The course will be open to Maritime Academy students in grades 9 through 12 with a special invitation being given to area juniors and seniors this year due to the closure of some programs. 

Students will receive training and guidance by professional chef instructors in the state-of-the-art galley and dining hall facilities at The Maritime Academy of Toledo.  

The course will feature the Pro Start Curriculum — The standard in high school culinary education.  

Students will learn about menu planning including nutrition and portion control, baking knowledge and skills, soups and sauces, as well as meats, poultry, and seafood.  

In addition, students will learn about galley operations, supervision of the galley, supplies and inventory control, hygiene and sanitation, as well as First Aid / CPR.

“We have long recognized the career opportunities, in the maritime industry and elsewhere, for those trained in the culinary arts.  This training will do just that.  It will prepare students to take their culinary passion to a higher education setting by offering college credits. Additionally students will receive the ServSafe Certification through the National Restaurant Association Education Program,” said Ms. Marazon.  “As the students progress through the culinary arts program, they will be able to showcase their knowledge and skills at special in-house and community events held at The Maritime Academy of Toledo.”