When entering the halls of the Caribou High School Technology Center, don’t be surprised if you are suddenly overcome by the urge to have lunch. It’s OK to just follow your nose and dine at the Viking’s Korner Kitchen, you won’t be disappointed.
Aroostook Republican photo/Barb Scott
Caribou High School Technology Center students enrolled in the General Trades Program were anxiously waiting their luncheon guests to arrive as they celebrated the grand opening of the Viking’s Kitchen on Sept. 15. At left, in front, is Margarita Borrego, in back, from left, are Josh Steggall, and Evan Nadeau. On the right side of the counter from front are: Casey Clark, JuaNita Campbell, instructor; Lyndsay Theriault, Ed Tech; Niki Farley, Rachel Wasson and Michael Conrad.
On Sept. 15, JuaNita Campbell, instructor for the General Trades program, and her students, celebrated with a grand-opening event, making sure everyone — students, staff, administrators, friends and family — were aware that the popular site had reopened for the 2011-12 school year.
As their guests arrived they were greeted by bright, cheerful table settings and excited students waiting to serve their delicious luncheon menu which included chicken stew and ployes, topped off by scrumptious chocolate cake.
The General Trades Program is a three-credit course designed with unique strategies to teach various living skills. Students experience hands-on work activities including preparing meals, baking, grocery shopping, customer service and the importance of teamwork. They also benefit from learning everyday life-skills including maintaining a checking account, personal grooming and hygiene, housekeeping skills including laundry and sewing, how to fill out forms; how to prepare a resume and how to find and keep employment.
“Mostly students learn that ‘attitude is everything, and that they can do anything,” said Campbell. “My students get the opportunity to imagine — dream — and believe.”
Students attend this class Monday through Friday from 9:15 to 11:40 a.m. and the kitchen is open for lunch-goers on these days from 10:45 to 11:30 a.m. serving fast-food items, with a weekly special on Wednesday for staff, family and friends.
Aroostook Republican photo/Barb Scott
A student in the Caribou High School Technology Center General Trades Program, Evan Nadeau, standing at right, provides perfect customer service to members of his family who were guests at the grand opening of the Viking’s Korner Kitchen on Sept. 15. Enjoying the chicken stew and ployes lunch are the Evan’s parents, Tammy and Glen Nadeau, and his grandmother, Doris Nadeau.
Campbell shares her cheery attitude and special understanding with all the students entrusted to her. It is obvious she enjoys her time spent working with the students at the tech center, stating, “ It is a most rewarding experience.”
Campbell encourages everyone to visit Room 157 at the Caribou High School Technology Center and “perhaps remain for lunch, as continued support of the Viking’s Kitchen helps motivate the students to do their very best.” Campbell also extended a sincere thank you to those who attended the recent grand opening.
Student Casey Clark took her classroom jobs seriously, both in helping to prepare for the special event as well as making sure the Viking’s Kitchen had plenty of guests for lunch. Clark received a gift certificate for having the most guests in attendance.
