Culinary Teacher; SHS

Culinary Arts Teacher - Career & Technical Education (CTE)
Position Description

The Culinary Arts Teacher will provide engaging, industry-aligned instruction within Stratford Public Schools’ Career and Technical Education (CTE) Culinary Arts pathway. The successful candidate will create authentic, hands‑on learning experiences that prepare students for postsecondary education, industry certifications, and careers in the hospitality and culinary industries.

The teacher will foster a positive, inclusive, and student‑centered learning environment while integrating academic, technical, and employability skills aligned to 21st‑century workforce expectations and the district’s Portrait of a Graduate competencies.

Instructional areas may include culinary fundamentals, baking and pastry arts, nutrition and wellness, food safety and sanitation, hospitality management, customer service, kitchen operations, and front‑of‑house experiences. Students may also participate in work‑based learning experiences, industry partnerships, catering events, and career exploration opportunities.

Reports to: Principal and Director of Career & Community Learning

Location: Stratford High School

• Deliver high‑quality instruction in Culinary Arts and Hospitality pathways aligned with Connecticut CTE standards and industry expectations
• Develop and implement project‑based, inquiry‑driven, and authentic learning experiences
• Maintain a safe, organized, and sanitary commercial kitchen and classroom environment in compliance with health and safety regulations
• Integrate academic content, employability skills, technology, and career readiness into instruction
• Differentiate instruction to support diverse learners and varying student abilities
• Utilize instructional technology, industry equipment, and current culinary trends to enhance learning experiences
• Prepare students for industry‑recognized certifications such as Serv Safe and other hospitality credentials
• Supervise and support students during labs, catering district‑approved events, competitions, internships, and work‑based learning experiences
• Collaborate with colleagues, administrators, industry partners, advisory committees, and community organizations to strengthen programming and student opportunities
• Maintain accurate student records, grades, safety documentation, and inventory
• Participate in curriculum development, program improvement initiatives, professional learning, and CTE advisory meetings
• Foster a culture of professionalism, teamwork, mutual respect, communication, and student engagement
• Support district initiatives related to career readiness, equity, and student success

• Valid Connecticut Teaching Certification to teach culinary arts

Candidates seeking certification eligibility must possess:

• Minimum of four (4) years of recent, relevant, full‑time wage‑earning experience in the culinary or hospitality industry beyond the training period
• Demonstrated knowledge of culinary techniques, kitchen operations, food safety, sanitation, and hospitality practices
• Strong communication, organizational, and classroom management skills
• Commitment to fostering inclusive and engaging learning environments

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, Food Service Management, or related field from an accredited institution
• Prior teaching, mentoring, training, or youth development experience
• Serv Safe Instructor and/or Manager Certification
• Experience with work‑based learning, industry partnerships, catering, or restaurant operations
• Experience integrating technology and project‑based learning into instruction

• Ability to collaborate effectively within a team‑oriented educational environment
• Commitment to continuous professional growth and staying current with culinary industry trends and workforce needs

Stratford Public Schools is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

SALARY: Per SEA Contract