Skyline culinary students prepare Thanksgiving meals

DALLAS — The aroma of pecan pies in the oven and gravy on the stove fill the kitchens at Skyline High School as culinary students get ready for a busy holiday season. Whether it’s learning how to prep a turkey or making a ganache for a pumpkin pie, students have the opportunity to learn how to create Thanksgiving staples while learning proper technique and giving back to the community. “For us, a lot of students haven’t cooked traditional Thanksgiving meals,” said Jason Blackwell, chef and culinary teacher at Skyline. “We plan the menu and introduce it to the kids. The idea is to give them the resources and skills to cook a holiday meal at home.” Blackwell goes through the recipes step-by-step with his students, offering hands-on assistance and guidance as the class takes lead on cooking every item on the menu. Just like in a professional kitchen, students work in different sections of the kitchen and come together to ensure everything is running smoothly and on time. Sirenity R., a sophomore, was assigned to the meat station, working with the turkey. Having always liked to cook, she said she felt right at home. “I like preparing the food, and...