End-of-the-year professional development offers educators a unique opportunity to reflect, reset, and relax as the school year draws to a close. Recently, educational leaders from Lamar Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) near Houston, Texas, were treated to a very special kind of “PD day”—one that incorporated hands-on, culinary team-building activities. Our team at Rainbow Chefs Academy was honored to help Lamar CISD deliver a high-impact (and fun!) professional development experience for 58 principals and 7 superintendents.
Rainbow Chefs Academy’s Founder and CEO, Svetlana Elgart, was on-site to ensure the activity’s success. Also in attendance from Rainbow Chefs Academy were Larry Johnson, Director of Partnerships, Erin Romal, Texas Regional ELOP Manager, and Viana Elgart, Operations Manager. A special thank-you also goes out to Chef Paul!
Building Connections at One of Texas’ Fastest-Growing Districts
Lamar Consolidated Independent School District is considered one of the fastest-growing school districts in Texas, serving more than 49,000 enrolled students across dozens of campus locations. The district’s “student-focused” approach has helped it earn numerous awards, including the prestigious HEB Excellence in Education Award. Lamar CISD’s Superintendent, Roosevelt Nivens, is a well-respected leader in education and incoming President of the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA).
“We were honored to be invited by the Superintendent of Lamar CISD in Texas for their End-of-Year Professional Development Day,” says Svetlana Elgart, Founder and CEO. “It was energizing to see everyone come together, cook, connect, and leave with fresh ideas on how great food and collaboration can positively impact both school culture and student wellness.”
During the team-building exercise, leaders from across Lamar CISD discussed nutrition education, prepared delicious recipes, and participated in friendly competition. Prizes were awarded to teams based on food presentation, setting, and, of course, taste.
“The Rainbow Chefs Team was gratified to hear feedback from superintendents and principals alike, thanking us for making this one of the most fun and impactful PD days in memory,” says Larry Johnson, Director of Partnerships at Rainbow Chefs Academy. “Rainbow Chefs Academy’s vision is to help students develop nutrition knowledge and skills that lead to lifelong healthy habits. We’re proud to bring that vision to Texas’ K-12 schools and educators.”
Learn how Rainbow Chefs Academy is working to improve health and wellness for students in Texas and beyond. Contact us to explore partnership opportunities for your school district.