Highlighting the Work of Chase High Students

Skylar Gowan, Jaiya Mills and Maverick Smith.

School is out for summer, but the awesome work of Chase High School's Advanced Studies Foods and Nutrition students during the past school year does not go unnoticed. They made a significant impact on school nutrition through two innovative, student-run food enterprises: "Tro-Jo Coffee" and the "Gold Standard Salad Bar." These initiatives not only provided fresh, high-quality food and beverage options to the staff but also equipped students with essential career skills in food service management.

As part of Rutherford County Public Schools' Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, students managed every aspect of these businesses-from crafting custom espresso drinks and preparing nutritious breakfast items to curating a salad bar featuring the best locally and sustainably sourced toppings available. Through this hands-on experience, students developed durable skills such as food safety management, communication and problem solving, financial planning, and ingredient sourcing with a focus on sustainability. By integrating practical learning with real-world applications, these student-led enterprises align with the mission of the Rutherford County Food Council-to promote food access, sustainability, and education.

Through initiatives like "Tro-Jo Coffee" and the "Gold Standard Salad Bar," Chase High students are not only preparing for future careers in food and hospitality but also fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of fresh, high-quality food options in their community. This program exemplifies how schools can bridge education and food sustainability, setting a standard for other communities striving to enhance local food systems through student engagement.

The Rutherford County Food Council is a sub-committee of the Rutherford County Health Council, and is specifically working for a thriving agricultural economy, nourished residents, and food security for all.

For more information visit www.rutherfordncfoodcouncil.org or contact Food Coordinator & Council Secretary, Wilda Lee at 360-931-7607 or rcfoodcouncil@gmail.com.