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PPSD Education Leaders Celebrate Ribbon Cutting for PCTA Food Truck as Part of RIDE’s Menu for Success Initiative

PROVIDENCE, R.I. –The Providence Public School District (PPSD), along with representatives of the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE), Providence Mayor Brett Smiley, Providence Public School District (PPSD) Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez, School Board President Erlin Rogel and members of the School Board,  community leaders, and PPSD administrators, staff and students gathered on Wednesday to cut the ribbon for Providence Career and Technical Academy's (PCTA) new food truck, PCTA’s Good Eats & Treat, which is part of RIDE’s Menu for Success Food Truck initiative.

 

The event highlighted PPSD’s commitment to providing students with hands-on experience in innovative career and technical education (CTE) opportunities. The food truck represents PCTA's dedication to preparing students for success in the workforce through hands-on, work-based learning experiences. This innovative approach not only enhances the educational experience but also equips students with valuable skills necessary for future careers in the culinary industry. Additionally, PCTA students used graphic design skills to create the visual art on the food truck’s exterior and will be able to incorporate repairs in the mechanic program. 

 

"RIDE’s Menu for Success initiative represents a significant investment in our students' futures and we are thrilled to have Providence Public Schools participating," said RIDE Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. "By providing hands-on learning experiences in culinary arts and entrepreneurship, we are equipping students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the 21st-century economy." 

 

"Initiatives like the Menu for Success program are equipping Providence youth to become the next generation of artists, chefs and entrepreneurs," said Mayor Brett P. Smiley. "When we empower our students with multidisciplinary opportunities to develop real-world skills and showcase their creativity, we are living up to our name as the Creative Capital of the nation"

 

"The launch of the Food Truck initiative represents an exciting opportunity for our students," said PPSD Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez. "Through this program, students will gain valuable experience in culinary arts and entrepreneurship, setting them on a path to success in their future careers." 

 

"As President of the Providence School Board, I am proud to witness the fruition of our commitment to innovative education and community collaboration through initiatives like the Food Truck program at PCTA. This hands-on learning experience exemplifies our dedication to preparing students for successful futures in the culinary industry and beyond. Together with our partners, we are shaping the next generation of skilled professionals and contributing to the economic growth of our city," said Providence School Board President Erlin Rogel.

 

 "The Food Truck initiative is a testament to PCTA's dedication to innovation and community partnership," said PTU President Maribeth Calabaro. "By providing students with practical learning experiences, we are empowering them to succeed in the workforce and contribute to the economic growth of our city and learn critical skills for the future."

 

The ribbon cutting ceremony was followed by a tour of the food truck, showcasing the culmination of the District’s and RIDE’s efforts in CTE programs and community collaboration. Providence Public Schools, in collaboration with the RIDE and the City of Providence, is committed to providing students with modern educational opportunities. 

 

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