With the retirement of the beloved Mrs. Sandy Pizzo, the culinary program enters a new era under the guidance of Mrs. Bobbi Ferrell, a teacher who brings both experience and heart to the classroom.
With 26 years of teaching experience, including five in culinary education, Mrs. Ferrell is no stranger to inspiring students or fostering creativity. Her teaching journey has been a dream since she was five years old; she has taught from kindergarten to seniors.
When asked why she chose teaching, Ferrell said, “I love encouraging.”
Ferrell also spoke about her excitement to step into a program that meant so much to Mrs. Pizzo. Pizzo and Ferrell are good friends, and Ferrell is determined to continue her legacy, while adding her own voice and vision.
Ferrell runs her classroom like a true kitchen. For example, Ferrell values leadership skills and requires all culinary students to be executive chefs at least once. Executive chefs will lead the rest of the group, reviewing all of Ferrell’s required tasks, and will be the only ones who communicate kitchen issues.
“This system is really helpful and helps make sure everyone gets their tasks done,” Cici Cook (9) said.
What stands out the most about Ferrell is her connection with students. She doesn’t just want them to learn how to cook, she wants them to be seen and cared for. Her goals are clear: “One, make every student feel valued and two, making sure they are loved,” Ferrell said.
“Mrs. Ferrell is an amazing teacher, she’s strict, but in a good way– she always asks if I’m okay when I’m late,” Heaven Miller (11) said.
Miller explained how whether it’s cheering students on in the kitchen celebrating creativity, or listening when they need support, Ferrell makes it clear she values relationships over all. The mix of encouragement and enthusiasm makes her class more than a cooking lesson. The teacher wants students to have an “excitement for learning,” that they can carry for the rest of their life.
With her kindness, creativity and genuine care for her students, Mrs. Ferrell is more than ready to build a great classroom environment for all.
