Florida School for Dyslexia Launches Culinary Arts Class for Students with Learning Disabilities
Educational Pathways Academy is thrilled to announce the newest addition to our Art Career Education Studies (ACES) Program—Culinary Arts! This exciting new class gives high school students the opportunity to explore the world of cooking while developing practical life and career skills through hands-on, creative learning.
The ACES Program: Turning Creativity into Career Readiness
The ACES Program at EPA’s North Campus was designed especially for high school students with learning differences such as dyslexia. Each specialized elective helps students discover and develop their unique talents while building confidence, creativity, and career readiness. Courses like oil painting, jewelry fabrication, and entrepreneurship have already provided meaningful pathways for students to explore their passions and develop real-world skills. Now, Culinary Arts joins this growing list of offerings, expanding opportunities for students to express themselves through food and flavor.
Learning Through the Art of Cooking
Students in EPA’s new Culinary Arts class are discovering that cooking is both creative and practical. Through lessons in knife safety, food preparation, flavor pairing, and presentation, they’re developing real-world skills that will serve them for years to come. Each class blends creativity and focus, giving students with learning differences the chance to shine through hands-on, strengths-based learning.
To make the experience even more engaging, Educational Pathways Academy has partnered with Chef Geoff Thomas, Personal Chef and Executive Chef of Naples Princess Cruises. Chef Geoff was recently featured in Gulfshore Business, where he shared how his passion for cooking began in his grandmother’s kitchen in San Antonio. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts and a former restaurateur, Chef Geoff has built an impressive career leading kitchens and inspiring others through food.
During a recent visit, he led a charcuterie box lesson, guiding students through slicing techniques, arranging and plating, and presentation tips. His visit inspired students to see how attention to detail and creativity can transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Beyond cooking, the class helps students build confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Whether they dream of a future in the culinary field or simply enjoy creating meals for others, students are gaining independence and pride in their work.
With the continued growth of the ACES Program, Educational Pathways Academy remains committed to offering innovative electives that help students with learning differences connect their passions to potential career paths. Culinary Arts is a wonderful example of how EPA empowers students with learning differences to turn their creativity into capability and their strengths into success.
