Cooking Up Success: TD Elementary students take judges to flavortown; McNeal puts some rock -n- roll in her Posole

Hands-On Learning Takes Center Stage at Future Chefs Competition on Wednesday, Feb. 19

D21 School Board Member Dayna Wynn-Elledge observes as this student works on an egg-forward dish.

From North Wasco County School District:

By Stephanie Bowen

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 20, 2025 — Learning goes beyond textbooks—students thrive when they’re actively engaged. That’s why schools are embracing hands-on experiences that bring real-world skills to life, like cooking.

This approach was on full display Wednesday, Feb. 19, at the Future Chefs Competition, where third through fifth-grade students from North Wasco County School District showcased their creativity and culinary talents.

Radishes. Chef, Yes Chef!

Hosted by Sodexo Schools, the competition challenged students to create delicious, healthy dishes while mastering fundamental cooking techniques. Each of our elementary schools was well represented, with young chefs bringing their A-game to this year’s challenge: "Your Favorite Main Dish."

Shrimp takes the limelight in this inspired dish.

Earlier this year, our budding student chefs submitted recipes, and the top finalists put their skills to the test in a live cooking showdown. Their dishes were judged on taste, healthiness, kid-friendliness, originality, ease of preparation, plate presentation, and their ability to present their creations to the judges.

The event wasn’t just about competition—it was about learning through doing. From chopping vegetables to plating their dishes with artistic flair, students gained confidence in the kitchen while developing essential life skills.

Superintendent Bernal, along with North Wasco County School Board Members John Nelson get in on the judging action on Wednesday.

This year’s panel of judges included Superintendent Bernal, along with North Wasco County School Board Members John Nelson, David Jones, and Dayna Wynn-Elledge. Their enthusiasm and support made the event even more special, and we extend a heartfelt thank you for their time and dedication to our students.

At the end of the competition, one talented young chef stood out—congratulations to Gwen McNeal, our district’s Future Chefs Champion, which will be held at a date still to be decided. She wowed the judges with her family’s Posole recipe.

Gwen McNeal at right wowed judges with her Posole.

She will now move on to compete at the regional level, and we can’t wait to watch her as she represents our district with pride.

Events like the Future Chefs Competition highlight the importance of hands-on learning in today’s schools. Whether it’s cooking, science experiments, robotics, or art projects, these experiences spark curiosity, build confidence, and equip students with skills they’ll use for alifetime.

Thank you to all the students, staff, judges, and families who made this event a success!