Rockwall ISD Culinary Arts Students Turn Up the Heat at State, Advance to Nationals

ROCKWALL, TX (April 13, 2026) The Dr. Gene Burton College and Career Academy culinary arts students are celebrating their big win at the ProStart state competition, securing them a spot at Nationals.

The culinary team earned first place in their category and will be advancing to the national competition in Baltimore on April 24-26. The team includes students Dary Jorif, Kailey Hahn, Meagan Hatley, Danna Rodriguez, and Keavie Weaver.

In addition to the team victory, two students earned individual first-place finishes in their respective categories. Jacob Mendoza took 1st place in the Breakfast Battle, while Oliver Steel earned 1st place in Knife Skills, highlighting their precision and culinary expertise. Both students competed at the highest level and stood out among participants from across the state. As a result of their performances, each student received scholarships to some of the nation’s top Culinary Arts, Hospitality, and Tourism programs.

Thanks to culinary arts instructors Chris Rivera, Rachel Bristow, Celeste Hernandez, and Madeline Meyer for their guidance and mentorship. Their expertise has played a critical role in preparing the student for competition.

With their state championship win, the team will now represent Texas on the national stage in Baltimore. To help cover travel expenses, the program has launched a fundraising campaign and is encouraging community support.

As part of the effort, the most generous donor will receive a $500 gift certificate to Lucchese, generously donated by the company. Supporters can contribute or share the fundraiser online at: https://app.schoolfundr.org/fund/prostart-nationals-fundraiser

Submitted press release and photos, Rockwall ISD. 

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