Office Hours Today at 2:30!
Today's topic is Pre-Apprenticeship. Teams invites were sent yesterday morning.
Burger Battle, Creative Cakes, Mocktail Madness Scoresheets and Teacher Institute CEU Certificates on the way!
Our team has been out of the office quite a bit making visits and hosting events. We will have these items out to you by the end of November.
School Visits on the Way!
Sonya is hitting the road in November and would love to visit your classroom! These visits are a chance to connect with you and your students, see what’s cooking, and hear how we can better support your ProStart program.
Have a student project you want to show off, questions about upcoming opportunities, or resources you need? Let’s talk!
She’ll be reaching out to schedule visits, but you’re welcome to email her at sdelaney@ohiorestaurant.org to get yours on the calendar. Looking forward to seeing your students in action!
Classroom visits are a requirement for the ProStart program.
Last Chance to Nominate an Educator or ProStart Student of the Year!
Do you know an educator who goes above and beyond for their culinary and hospitality students? Or a ProStart student whose talent, leadership, and passion are taking them places? Help us give them the recognition they deserve! It’s that time of year to nominate an Outstanding Ohio Educator and ProStart Student! We will be celebrating our winners this year at the 2026 Industry Awards
Winners will be honored at our annual Industry Awards on December 8.
Nominate the ProStart Student of the Year 2026 HERE
Nominate the Educator of the Year 2026 HERE
Nominations close soon—nominate an outstanding educator or student today!
CTSO Chapter Updates!
Chapter leader submissions were due September 30. If you haven’t submitted your Leader, Vice Leader, and Social Ambassador, please do so as soon as possible. We are working on invoices, and they will be sent soon. Just a reminder that membership remains $5 per student.
Please take the time to review the Guidebook HERE for refreshers on the program.
JumpStart Your Students’ Hospitality Careers!
Take your students’ learning beyond the classroom! Applications are now open for the 2027 ProStart JumpStart Grant, offering one ProStart school the opportunity to bring up to 12 students and three chaperones to the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago. Students will explore industry innovations, connect with professionals, and discover exciting career pathways.
The grant covers select travel, lodging, and participation costs, with an additional stipend to help offset expenses. Applications close November 13, 2026!
Ready to open new doors for your students? Learn more and apply HERE!
Ohio ProStart Invitational Rules Coming Next Week!
Educator Portal
There is a new educator portal password. Please reach out to info@oraef.org for access. Let us know if there are resources you would like to see.
2026-2027 Calendar
2027
March 9 Ohio ProStart Invitational
Virtual events coming soon!
Pre-apprenticeship Program
Students can earn their COA (Certificate of Achievement) and Pre- Apprenticeship designation. Both are work-based learning opportunities. A COA earns 9 points toward graduation, and Pre-Apprenticeship earns 12. The process is simple, with just a few forms to complete each month.
Email info@oraef.org with any questions.
This is a great opportunity for your students! We currently have 3 schools enrolled: Tri-County, Ohio Valley, and Stow Munroe. Please register your students so we can submit to the state of Ohio!
Click HERE to view the Pre-Apprenticeship Guidelines & Click HERE for the Pre-Apprenticeship Application. Are you interested in bringing pre apprenticeship to your school next year? Email Abby Del Riesgo adelriesgo@ohiorestaurant.org
