WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, December 10, the aroma of Delaware’s finest cuisine filled the historic halls of the U.S. Capitol, and Delcastle Technical High School was at the center of the plate.
The Delcastle Culinary Arts program traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in the annual "Taste of Delaware," a prestigious event held in the Kennedy Caucus Room. The students, accompanied by Instructors Chef Tom Craft and Chef Paul Egnor, and Assistant Principal Tim Dorsey alongside Superintendent Dr. Joseph Jones and school counselor Mr. Frank Lyburn, served as ambassadors not just for Delcastle, but for the entire New Castle County Vocational-Technical School District (NCCVT) and high school culinary programs across the state.
A National Stage for Sophomore Talent While the event is a long-standing tradition, this year was particularly unique: the Delcastle team was comprised entirely of sophomores. Despite their youth, the students displayed a level of professionalism that drew the attention of the room’s most high-profile guests.
"My proudest moment was the fact that it was our sophomores operating in this space," said Assistant Principal Tim Dorsey. "They were so mature, took initiative, and truly rose to the occasion. Numerous times, Senator Chris Coons, Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, and Congresswoman Sarah McBride recognized the hard work and skills of our students from the podium."
Real-World Experience The event provided students with more than just a photo opportunity; it was an immersive lesson in high-end hospitality. Students worked alongside diverse restaurants and vendors, learning about culturally significant foods ranging from local oysters to artisanal butters and juices.
"These events provide our kids the opportunity to get out of their comfort zone," explained Chef Tom Craft. "Most of these kids will never get an experience like this again. They come back with a sense of pride and a new confidence, better prepared to support each other in the years to come."
For Chef Craft, the highlight is always the direct interaction between the student chefs and the guests. "As the guests walk up to the tables... the kids describe our dish and wait in anticipation for the reaction to the bite," he said. "These reactions are the reason I do what I do."
Setting Students Up for Success The trip to D.C. perfectly illustrates Delcastle's commitment to preparing students for career readiness. Principal John Greenly views these opportunities as the intersection of education and application.
"Opportunities like this highlight how our students’ passion and our instructors’ skill come together to prepare true leaders in the culinary industry," said Greenly. "Student passion plus instructor skill equals student success—we S.E.T. them up!"
The event was a resounding success, with one guest remarking that it was "their most favorite event of the whole year at the Capitol." The Delcastle community is incredibly proud of these young culinarians for representing the Diamond State with such excellence.
About the Culinary Arts Program at Delcastle More Than Just a Kitchen—A Recipe for Your Future
The Culinary Arts program at Delcastle Technical High School is a premier Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway designed for students with a passion for food, hospitality, and service.
Far more than a cooking class, our program immerses students in a professional-grade environment where they master the art and science of the culinary industry. Under the guidance of expert chef-instructors, students gain hands-on experience in:
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Professional Food Preparation: From baking and pastry arts to international cuisine and garde manger.
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Kitchen Safety & Sanitation: Earning industry-recognized certifications like ServSafe that give graduates a head start in the workforce.
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Hospitality Management: Learning the business side of the industry, including menu planning, cost control, and event catering.
Whether students aim to attend a top culinary institute, manage a restaurant, or launch their own food business, Delcastle provides the ingredients for success. Through rigorous academics and real-world opportunities—like the "Taste of Delaware" in Washington, D.C.—we prepare the next generation of culinary leaders.