Holyoke’s young chefs compete in Sodexo’s 15th anniversary challenge

HOLYOKE — Angileynis "Angie" Aponte-Morales, a fifth grader at Morgan Elementary School, emerged victorious in a student chef competition with her sausage soup which she says is one of her favorite meals her mother makes.

For her version, she said she wanted the soup, "The Party of Salchichón," to be a "party," the school district said.

Angie secured first place with 80 votes. Kendol Cruz claimed second place, while Kayliannie Arenas took third.

The 15th Future Chefs competition was held Wednesday at Holyoke High School's Dean Tech Campus to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the district's food services provider, Sodexo Future Chefs National Challenge.

The five elementary students from the Holyoke Public Schools donned aprons and were paired with Sodexo experts to showcase their culinary skills.

Judges Rey Figueroa, family and community engagement coordinator from Metcalf School; Myriam Rodriguez, Family and Community Engagement coordinator from Lawrence School; and Mirelys Perez, manager at Sodexo, evaluated the dishes. Donahue Elementary School Principal Marc Swygert attended to support his school's participants.

Students had one hour to cook and plate their creations, which were then presented to the judges for tasting.

The competition featured a variety of dishes. Besides the winner, they included Kayliannie Arenas' tacos, Kendol Cruz's stuffed shells, Andrew Greaney's chicken and broccoli Alfredo, and Giada Williamson's grandma's mac 'n' cheese.