Mainland High School

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Background: The hospitality industry is one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy over recent decades. It is a multi-billion dollar industry, employing about 12.7 million Americans, and continues to grow. It is exciting, fast-paced, and offers unlimited opportunities. The job possibilities are diverse enough for people to work in different areas of interest and still be employed within the hospitality industry.

Objective: Our academy’s objective is to prepare students for life after high school. In addition to preparing students for immediate placement in a related job, we also strive to increase their engagement in core academic courses. We accomplish this by “linking” our studies to other related subjects (math, social studies, science, & economics).

Industry Certification: Our curriculum is sponsored by the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation (NRAEF). The NRAEF developed ProStart®. ProStart is the career-building program for high school students who are interested in culinary arts and restaurant and tourism management. Throughout the program, they study in the classroom, participate in mentored work experiences, and test their skills in local and national competitions.
From 2009 to 2019, the number of jobs in the restaurant and foodservice industry is projected to increase by 1.8 million. That includes 11% growth in management positions. But ProStart is answering the challenge. It’s already working for approximately 80,000 student participants in more than 1,650 schools, across 47 states, territories and districts.

Academy Contact Information:

Mr. Jason Kester	Mr. Troy Logan
Academy Coordinator/Chef Instructor	Chef Instructor
Ext. 54269	Ext. 54268
jekester@volusia.k12.fl.us	tblogan@volusia.k12.fl.us

Mr. Jason Kester

Mr. Troy Logan