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  • Culinary Arts Pathway

    The Culinary Arts Pathway is designed to prepare students for post-secondary education and/or careers in the Culinary Arts industry. Students engage in classroom instruction paired with hands-on lab experiences that replicate real-world commercial kitchen environments. They explore a variety of careers in Hospitality and Culinary Arts, including Sous Chef, Executive Chef, Restaurant Manager/Owner, and other roles within the Food and Beverage industry. 

     

    Over the course of three sequential classes, students develop essential employability skills, learn kitchen safety and sanitation practices, maintain equipment, and cultivate professionalism. They also gain practical experience in preparing and presenting a wide range of foods across varying skill levels.

     

    The curriculum is developed by the Georgia Department of Education and aligns with standards set by the American Culinary Federation (ACF)—the recognized benchmark of excellence in the culinary industry. The Culinary Lab at East Paulding High School is actively pursuing Industry Certification through the ACF.

     

    Course Sequence

     

    Course 1: Introduction to Culinary Arts
    Students are introduced to fundamental food preparation terms, concepts, and methods. Lab practice complements classroom instruction, focusing on basic techniques, kitchen and dining room safety, sanitation, equipment maintenance, and professionalism. Career exploration is also emphasized as students begin their journey in the Culinary Arts pathway.

     

    Course 2: Culinary Arts I
    This course builds on foundational skills and introduces more advanced techniques and knowledge. Students deepen their understanding of Culinary Arts through hands-on practice and theory. At the start of the course, students are required to take and pass the ServSafe Exam (or equivalent) as a prerequisite for lab participation.

     

    Course 3: Culinary Arts II
    The final course in the pathway continues to develop students’ culinary expertise, emphasizing mastery of advanced techniques and in-depth industry knowledge. Students refine their skills in preparation for post-secondary education or direct entry into the foodservice industry.

     

    Career Technical Student Organization (CTSO)

     

    FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) is the official CTSO for the Culinary Arts Pathway. Students have opportunities to compete at the state and national levels, network with peers and professionals, and earn scholarships for college.