… the Community Classroom Project’s Culinary Olympiad
Delray Beach, FL — The Community Classroom Project (CCP) is proud to celebrate the incredible success of its inaugural Dish It Out! culinary Olympiad—an energetic, real-world competition designed to identify and ignite the next generation of hospitality professionals. This fast-paced, hands-on event brought together talented high school students who showcased not only culinary skill and creativity but also the communication, leadership, and teamwork needed to thrive in a professional restaurant environment.
Every participant wowed judges and mentors—including Chef Blake Malatesta of Wine & Spirits Kitchen and Jimmy Everett of Driftwood—with their determination, precision, and poise under pressure. From mastering mise en place and knife work to confidently navigating customer service challenges, these young competitors proved they’re ready to take on the real world.
Working in tandem with the School District of Palm Beach County and the microschool community, participating students represented Atlantic High School, Santaluces High School, Boca Raton High School, SouthTech Preparatory School and Space of Mind.
All Dish It Out! participants have earned a full scholarship to the Community Classroom Kitchen Restaurant Workforce Training Program, launching this summer. This immersive training pipeline includes restaurant bootcamps, workshops, apprenticeships, and job placement opportunities with CCP partners like SubCulture Restaurant Group—giving students the hands-on experience and confidence to begin careers in South Florida’s bustling food and hospitality scene.
“We’re not just teaching kids how to cook—we’re preparing them for real jobs and real futures,” said Ali Kaufman, Founder of Community Classroom Project and Space of Mind. “Programs like Dish It Out! are critical to solving the staffing shortage in our local hospitality industry, while giving students purpose, direction, and an exciting career path.”
Funded by the Children’s Services Council and CCP’s JP Kline Culinary Arts Scholarship Fund, the program is free to select students through merit- and need-based scholarships, ensuring accessibility for all aspiring chefs and hospitality pros.
For more information on how to support or get involved with CCP’s Restaurant Workforce Training Program, visit www.communityclassroomproject.com.
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY CLASSROOM PROJECT: The Community Classroom Project (CCP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Space of Mind, is rethinking education and reducing school-related stress. CCP connects students, parents, educators, schools, mental health providers and the community through experiential learning, entrepreneurship opportunities and scholarships. Their Community Classroom Kitchen (CCK) initiative enhances mental and physical health through cooking and communal dining while training the next generation of culinary professionals.
www.yourccp.org | @communityclassroomproject