SHS Students Serve Up Creativity and Skill in Food Truck Competition

by Teresa Seabolt

Moore, OK – April 2025 — Months of hard work, creativity, and hands-on learning culminated in a deliciously exciting event this April, as four culinary classes from Moore Public Schools presented their final food truck projects during the much-anticipated annual competition. With a total of 20 imaginative food trucks and dishes, students showcased not only their cooking talents but also their ability to develop and execute a business from the ground up.

These culinary classes are part of the CareerTech program at Moore Public Schools, which offers students hands-on experience and training in various career fields, including the high-demand food service industry.

The project kicked off in February and was broken into manageable phases to maintain engagement and ensure quality work. From brainstorming catchy truck names and slogans to designing logos (hand-drawn or crafted using Canva), students poured their passion into every detail.

It was not only fun, but we learned hands-on and how to communicate with each other in a small space. -SHS culinary student

Each team researched and selected a well-rounded menu consisting of three main dishes, three sides, two desserts, and two beverages, sourced from internet recipes. But the real challenge came with the cost breakdown worksheet—a rigorous exercise in culinary math. Students had to convert every ingredient into ounces, calculate price per ounce, cost per serving, and ultimately, determine realistic selling prices.

With menus finalized and printed using Canva templates, teams turned to the construction of their food truck models using copy paper boxes. From there, they compiled grocery lists—adjusting recipes as needed—and created production plans assigning tasks to each team member. They also prepped all their ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process for competition day.

On the big day, each group prepared one featured main dish and presented it alongside their food truck model and menu to a panel of judges. The judging panel included Dr. Romines, Ms. Woodson, Mr. Dickinson, and Mr. Burton from upper administration, as well as Sergeant Kauley and Sergeant Alexander from the National Guard, Lizzy Bozarth from the MPS Foundation, and several Southmoore High School faculty members.

All participating students held a current Cleveland County Food Handler’s Permit, earned through class instruction in September—a credential valid for three years and a strong foundation for any student considering a career in food service.

This project wasn’t just about cooking. It was a comprehensive lesson in business development, teamwork, math, design, and time management, all served with a side of fun. “It’s a huge undertaking, but the students always surprise us with their creativity and effort,” said Sara Johnson, Family and Consumer Sciences instructor. "They leave this experience with practical skills, unforgettable memories, and a little more confidence in the kitchen and in life."

---