Cherry Creek Students Get Hands-On Culinary Experience with Food Bus
Cherry Creek Innovation Campus has launched a unique, student-run food bus that serves as both a breakfast and lunch destination, while providing valuable hands-on learning opportunities. This initiative is part of the school’s career technical education program, specifically for students in the culinary management pathway.
Chef David Bochmann, the school’s culinary instructor, emphasized that the bus offers a more spacious learning environment compared to traditional food trucks, enabling students to practice real-world culinary skills and management. The students have a significant role in the kitchen, from designing the menu to handling operational tasks like checking fridge temperatures and learning sanitation protocols.
“We want them to be critical thinkers,” Bochmann explained, noting that he gives students basic guidelines, such as using chicken and potatoes, and encourages them to create dishes like dino nuggets and waffle fries. Students also learn to manage inventory, calculate costs, and work through the logistics of running a mobile kitchen.
The program equips students with a wide range of skills, preparing them for future careers in the culinary industry. One student, Logan, mentioned that his goal is to own a food truck, and this program gives him the hands-on experience needed to pursue that dream.
The bus, donated by the school district, was transformed with a $110,000 renovation funded by the Tuchman Family Foundation. Plans for the future include taking the bus to football games and school events, giving students even more opportunities to practice their culinary and business skills.
This innovative project not only feeds students but also nurtures future culinary entrepreneurs.
