Forsyth County board recognizes Jen Davies and spotlights South Forsyth culinary pathway

The Forsyth County School Board opened its Feb. 17 meeting by recognizing school staff and students, naming Jen Davies, assistant principal at Lakeside Middle School, as the board’s Leadership Employee of the Month.

Dr. Amy Bartlett introduced Davies and read colleagues’ reflections praising her relationship-building, mentorship and “thoughtful caring approach” to students and staff. “Jen builds strong relationships with students, staff, and parents,” one colleague wrote in remarks read to the board.

The board then heard a superior-spotlight presentation on South Forsyth High School’s culinary pathway. Principal Pam Bibic introduced Chef Laura King and Chef Dawn Martin, who traced the program’s growth from an early home-economics kitchen to a commercial facility and described the recent addition of a baking and pastry pathway using state-approved curriculum standards.

Student speakers described hands-on opportunities that support both technical skills and entrepreneurship. Student Caleb Perri said he began in the introductory course, advanced to internships that include recipe costing and bulk ordering, and helped run the school’s 585 Café and 585 Grill. “Being an intern, we've stepped into much more of a leadership role,” he said.

Student Cooper Little described using ancient grains to mill flour, cake-decorating work and producing a Thanksgiving sale that “sold over 750 cakes, pies, sides, and cheesecake.” Both students cited travel and competition opportunities, including trips to Italy and Costa Rica and an invitation to compete at Walt Disney World.

Board members praised the program’s growth and community contributions. The recognitions and spotlight concluded before the board took a short recess and moved into the business portion of the meeting.

The board did not take policy action on the program during the meeting; the session’s recognitions were ceremonial.