South Lake culinary arts program continues to shine

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Culinary Arts assistant Mikalya Wilkens and instructor Michelle Downs pose with their students at the November MSGCU Dessert Competition. From left to right: Wilkens, Ariyana Jones-Foster (Lakeview), Shamon James (Lakeview), Jackson Morganroth (Lake Shore), Samantha Byrge (Lake Shore), Laniyah Golden-Bentley (South Lake), Jayla Jackson (South Lake), Downs. PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOUTH LAKE HIGH SCHOOL

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In anticipation of the Bistro opening, senior Matthew Devine prepares the silverware.

South Lake senior Patience Riley cuts the vegetables for the days fresh menu items.

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The students of South Lake Culinary Class are embracing every opportunity this year, and making the most of their culinary journey.

With plans to guide students into state competitions, third year teacher Michelle Downs is focused on advancing the class’s goals and expanding its achievements. Downs explained that in previous years, the focus was primarily on getting the restaurant open for service and experimenting with the menu.

“Now, we’ve added a new goal: Competing in culinary contests and seeing how we measure up against others across the state,” she said.

The first competition South Lake attended was the Macomb Schools and Government dessert competition. Looking ahead, they are preparing for the “Best Cook in Macomb” competition, the state competition in March, as well as continuing their community events and weekly service.

In addition to having another year of South Lake experience to draw on, Downs, who previously worked in both Anchor Bay and Clintondale, has a familiar face to assist her this year, former student and class of ‘23 Clintondale alum, Makayla Wilkens.

According to Downs, Wilkens’ who she taught for four years, familiarity with the program and its goals have been a big plus. “She knows the direction of the program and how I want everything to go, so it works out amazingly,” Downs said.

For her part, Wilkens says, “I love it working with (Downs). It’s like working with one of my best friends… We bounce ideas off each other, and we work really well together. I just love coming to work every day.”

In addition to South Lake students, Downs also has students from the two other St. Clair Shores districts — Lakeview and Lake Shore. She feels that Wilkens’ presence has not only been a helpful resource for the students but also a vital support for her in managing her classes.

“Makalya is the perfect person to be able to tell the class when I’m about to go into mom mode,” she laughs.

Senior Jayla Jackson summed up the students’ feelings about the class and it’s leaders.

“I love Culinary; it’s a very hands-on and awesome experience. Makayla is so nice and sweet. I also love Miss Downs. She’s not afraid to check on me or give me a hug.”