North Gwinnett News

The Georgia Restaurant Association (GRA) has announced that Berkmar High School is a recipient of the Rachael Ray ProStart Grow Grant. This grant, administered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), acknowledges the school's commitment to excellence in its culinary arts program.

The ProStart Rachael Ray Grow Grant is designed to support high school culinary and restaurant management programs across the country. It provides essential resources to help cultivate future culinary professionals. Berkmar High School has been recognized for its dedication to culinary education, innovative teaching methods, and student success.

Berkmar's culinary arts program offers students practical learning experiences and industry insights. The grant will enable the school to expand its resources, improve facilities, and continue providing quality culinary education.

James Bryant, a culinary educator at Berkmar High School and a three-time Georgia ProStart Champion instructor, expressed the impact of receiving a ProStart grant for chef uniforms: "Receiving a ProStart grant for chef uniforms would significantly enhance my teaching experience in several ways," he said. "First, it would alleviate financial burdens for both myself and my students. Many students may not have the means to afford quality chef uniforms and providing them through a grant ensures that all students have equal access to essential gear. This inclusivity promotes a supportive learning environment where students can focus on their culinary skills without worrying about financial constraints."

Earlier this year, Berkmar's culinary team won the Georgia ProStart Invitational (GPSI) state title, earning scholarship funds for post-secondary education in culinary arts. The team also competed at the National ProStart Invitational (NPSI) in Baltimore, Maryland.

The GRA congratulates Berkmar High School's students, educators, and administrators on this achievement. They anticipate further success and innovation resulting from this grant in their classrooms and within the Georgia ProStart Program.

For more information about the ProStart Rachael Ray Grow Grant and Berkmar High School's achievements, visit the National Restaurant Association's website or follow the Georgia Restaurant Association on social media.