Culinary Chronicles

Hello, students, parents, and our valued customers! It’s Jaime Soto, proud Principal of the Culinary Education Center, and I’m thrilled to kick off another delicious school year. Whether you’re a returning student ready to master your favorite soup or sauce or a parent bracing for your child’s inevitable “critique” of your mashed potatoes, we’re all in for an exciting ride! To our customers, thank you for your continued support and for bravely tasting those first-year creations. Your trust in our students is what makes this place special.

We’ve already had a fantastic start! From day one, our kitchens have been buzzing with creativity, teamwork, and the occasional “Oops, I meant tablespoons, not cups!” These early mix-ups are part of the journey, and we embrace every lesson learned because, at CEC, it’s not just about the perfect dish; it’s about building resilience (and not burning the sauce). This year, we’re focused on nurturing culinary skills and fostering a love for experimentation and innovation. So here’s to another year of tasty triumphs, a few kitchen catastrophes, and plenty of laughter along the way. Welcome back, everyone! Let’s cook up something amazing!

The CEC would like to welcome Chef Jack McGrath and Chef Amanda D'Apuzzo to the Culinary Education Center.

Jack McGrath: A graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Jack was born in Nutley NJ, and grew up at the Jersey shore. He worked at a few local restaurants such as Eggimans Tavern, The Molly Pitcher Inn and Spring Lake Golf Club before heading to Providence RI for culinary School to enhance his skills. Upon Graduation, Jack was recruited by The Ritz Carlton Hotel in Washington, where he had interned as a student. He perfected his Garde manger skills and worked At the Famous "Jockey Club" Restaurant and further became Banquet Chef serving 5-star Cuisine to Washington's Elite and Visitors from around the globe. Jack made the jump from D.C. To N.Y.C. to work for New York Restaurant Group with Chef David Burke at Maloney and Porcellis and as sous Chef at The Regency Hotel. Jack purchased a small tavern in Bucks County and continued working in the kitchen preparing “gastro pub” cuisine. After several years, Jack returned to his home at the Jersey Shore and Opened Brick Oven Restaurant, a small Italian Bistro serving gourmet wood fired pizzas, local caught fish, creative pasta dishes and the finest meats and poultry dishes as well as homemade desserts and gelatos. Jack has won First place in the coveted "Boss of the sauce" competition two years in a row, competing against the finest chefs from the Shore for this Award. Jack is a Culinary Arts teacher and works at Colts Neck Country Club as a Banquet Chef.

Amanda D'Apuzzo: A talented pastry chef with a passion for cake decorating and sculpting. A fellow graduate of MCVSD Culinary Education Center and Brookdale Community College as well as Pennsylvania College of Technology, Amanda holds an AA in Baking and Pastry. Her dedication to her craft is evident in her impressive achievements, including the Leah Chase Award from PCT. Amanda has honed her skills by working in numerous bakeries around NJ, gaining valuable experience in wholesale production. Her expertise has led her to create stunning cakes for high-profile venues and clients, showcasing her artistic abilities and attention to detail. With a commitment to continuous learning, Amanda is always seeking opportunities to further her education and expand her knowledge. Her goal is to share her passion for baking and pastry with others, inspiring new generations of culinary enthusiasts.

During the week of respect the Students discussed what respect looks like to them and created a bulletin board. The teachers handed out Kindness coins for the month when they saw a student showing respect.

Level 2 Officers

Taylor Kane- President

Mikayah Carter- Vice President

Elizabeth Stout- Secretary

Abdi Clara Aparicio- Historian

Mattias Vargas- Treasurer

Level 1 Officers

Marvin Gutierrez- President

Alexis Fineran- Vice President

Kieran Ruane- Secretary

Jonny Arevalo- Historian

Victoria Chino-Torralba- Treasurer

Students, Faculty, Staff and Public got the chance to vote for their favorite Scariest, Funniest, Cutest pumpkin.

Winners of the Cutest & Scariest pose by their pumpkins Marvin, Victoria and Isabella

Winner of the Funniest/Most Creative Brookdale Student Alex poses with her pumpkin

Chef Amanda's Bakery has been busy baking fall/halloween treats all month long. Look for the order form coming out soon to order your Thanksgiving goodies.

All month long Chef Jack's kitchen has been producing delicious soups. A sample of the types included Manhattan Clam Chowder, Cream of Chicken Soup, Chicken Noodle Soup, and Autumn Vegetable Bisque.

Time to Order your Thanksgiving Goodies. Pies, biscuits, rolls, cookies and cake available along with soup, cranberry sauce and gravy.

The CEC is accepting donations for the Annual Holiday Party Gift Auction. If you would like to donate a NEW item please bring to the school office by November 26, 2024.

Thank you