Lawmakers consider funding for culinary career prep in schools

One hour to prepare a three-course meal without electricity or running water, judged by restaurateurs? The ProStart Invitational transforms high school students into culinary stars.

While the competition is the most high-profile aspect of ProStart, the core of the program is hours of classroom work where high school students learn culinary and restaurant management skills from industry professionals. The national program is supported locally by the Hospitality Minnesota Education Foundation, which aims to provide more students the chance to jump-start a restaurant career through its two-year, industry-led education program.

Rep. Dave Baker (R-Willmar) sponsors HF961 that would provide $500,000 from the workforce development fund in the 2026-27 biennium for the ProStart program.

The bill was laid over, as amended, Wednesday by the House Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance and Policy Committee.

Jaelyn Mogren, a student at Elk River High School, said ProStart gave her a sense of belonging and purpose at a new school. “I also learned essential skills like communication, time management and how to handle constructive criticism from chefs and mentors.”

Rep. Kaela Berg (DFL-Burnsville) loves the program.

When she saw it in action at Burnsville High School, students were creating a food truck menu and exploring new takes on macaroni and cheese. “I know this is something where kiddos can go when they don’t see other opportunities,” Berg said.

The Hospitality Minnesota Education Foundation provides grants to high schools to pay for curriculum, equipment and food. It offers teacher training and helps coordinate mentors and industry professionals, giving students hands-on training and industry contacts.

Past appropriations have allowed Hospitality Minnesota to expand from 45 to 75 schools and double participation from 6,500 to 13,000 students. President and CEO Angie Whitcomb wants to continue expanding access, especially to more rural school districts.

“When you invest in career and technical education, everybody wins,” Whitcomb said.