Career technical education provides hands-on learning and practical skills that increase employability and independence. It builds self-confidence and accommodates diverse learning needs, offering an inclusive pathway to success. Leo A. Palmiter Jr./Sr. High School—a Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) school serving students in grades 7–12 with the primary disability of Emotional Disturbance—offers a long-running Culinary Arts Program that has taught these important skills to hundreds of dedicated students. Under the direction of CTE Instructor Stephen Hazelton, students learn the intricacies of operating a restaurant business, including preparing meals, serving customers, and using food safety skills to maintain a clean kitchen.
The Culinary Café reopened to great enthusiasm yesterday, serving its first lunch for the 2024–25 school year. Palmiter students, joined by those from the neighboring Elinor Lincoln Hickey Jr./Sr. High School, donned crisp white shirts and black aprons to serve the guests—including Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon, Deputy Superintendent Nancy Herota, Ed.D., and Sacramento County Board of Education trustees. Adeptly carrying pitchers of drinks and plates of food, the students efficiently served the enthusiastic patrons. They exhibited impressive care and professionalism, proudly working to provide excellent service and uphold the distinguished reputation of the Café that has operated since 1999. On the menu was a mixed green salad, followed by an exquisitely plated main course: roasted Creole chicken breast on a bed of cheesy polenta with seasonal vegetables. A luscious peach cobbler à la mode topped off the meal.
Palmiter students benefit from individualized support offered by the Culinary Arts Program, including structured routines, positive behavioral interventions, and tailored instruction. They even have the opportunity to earn the valuable ServSafe food handling certification, opening doors for employment. The Café operates alongside other school programs like a horticulture class that teaches students to build and maintain food gardens. Produce grown by students is frequently included in dishes served at the Culinary Café.
Make a Lunch Reservation
Culinary Café lunches officially begin on October 31 and continue on specific Thursdays throughout the school year. A variety of mouthwatering meals are offered to the public at an affordable $10. Dates and menus are listed online, along with reservation instructions. The school campus is located on Ethan Way near Arden Fair Mall.