Coventry students honored for Future Chefs competition; winner named

The Coventry School Committee paused regular business to recognize participants in the Future Chefs program sponsored by Sodexo and partnered with Johnson & Wales. Administration said 35 students submitted original recipes and five finalists were selected to prepare dishes judged on multiple criteria under the theme "Passport to Flavor."

A presenter described the event as a chance for elementary students to showcase recipes inspired by different cultures; the finalists prepared plates for judges and answered questions before winners were named. The winner announced was Leila Pagan; other participants acknowledged by name included Samantha Shaw, Jared Brilliant, Logan Brilliant and Julian Nasser. Members praised the students' efforts and presented certificates and photos.

Member Dorothy Jackfoni read the district mission statement and several members offered congratulatory remarks to the students and families in attendance.