From Chef Colton Nessmith – Culinary Instructor and Leader

On Tuesday, February 3, 2026, 3 of some of the best teen chefs I've ever seen represented Orange County Public School phenomenally. After over 15 years of doing this, these students still surprise me and show me how technical and professional they can be. They placed SECOND - SILVER in the statewide Universal Studios Orlando "Handheld" competition where the winner gets scholarships, program money and their item on a Universal restaurant menu. Miami Lakes HS was the winning school this year. Lyman HS & Deltona HS put up a great fight. Our braised short rib empanadas w/ avocado crema and red chimichurri sauces WOWED the judges. 

This truly was the "best of the best." It truly was a championship.  This is the furthest an OCPS school has ever gotten in this competition 

Please join us in congratulating the following students.

Madeline Hunt, Thomas Kron, and Molly Burke