Woodhaven-Brownstown School District

Woodhaven High School’s new cafeteria and kitchen was the backdrop for the 10th annual Sodexo Future Chefs Challenge, where five talented young chefs from each of the Woodhaven-Brownstown School District’s elementary schools competed in a culinary showdown. This national event, now in its 14th year, was created to inspire students and families to make healthy food choices while fostering creativity and engagement in the kitchen.

This year’s competition theme, “My Favorite Family Recipe,” encouraged students to submit a dish that holds special meaning to them and their loved ones. The district received numerous healthy recipe submissions, with five standout selections advancing to the final round. The young chefs competed at Woodhaven High School on March 5th, where they prepared their dishes for an esteemed panel of judges, which included school principals Tim Podlewski, Tom Martin, Caterina Berry, Michelle Briegel, teacher John Lees, and last year’s winner, fourth-grade student Haya Mehmood from Gudith Elementary School.

Meet the Finalists:

• Judah Michelson, 4th Grade, Bates Elementary School – Korean Beef Bibimbap

• Arianna Thomas, 3rd Grade, Erving Elementary School – Pasta Salad

• Jacob Wyatt, 3rd Grade, Gudith Elementary School – Chicken Bacon Ranch Stromboli

• Alice Smith, 3rd Grade, Wegienka Elementary School – Bacon Clam Chowder Pot Pie

• London Olmstead, 4th Grade, Yake Elementary School – London’s Famous Walking Tacos

Competitors were evaluated based on seven key criteria: healthy attributes, kid appeal, ease of preparation, originality, plate presentation, taste, and their ability to present their dish to the judges.

After a close competition, fourth-grader London Olmstead from Yake Elementary School emerged as the district’s champion with his delightful London’s Famous Walking Tacos. As a bonus, London will now move on to compete in the Future Chefs National Challenge, where he has the opportunity to win exciting prizes.

Woodhaven-Brownstown’s young chefs joined over 2,600 other students from 1,300 Sodexo-served schools nationwide, making this event a truly special experience for all involved. Congratulations to all the competitors for their hard work and creativity in the kitchen, and best of luck to London as he represents the district on the national stage!