The Management Competition at the 2026 Virginia ProStart Invitational saw Isle of Wight County Schools rise above their competition.Â
WILLIAMSBURG – On February 20, nearly 250 high school students descended on Williamsburg, Virginia to compete in the 2026 Virginia ProStart Invitational (VPSI). The management competition saw 11 teams take the compeition stage, all with incredibly compelling and innovative restaurant concepts. Congratulations to all of the students for their hard work and dedication, and an extra shout out to our top three finishing teams:
THIRD PLACE: KEMPSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL TEAM III
Team Roster: Cole Ross, Brooklyn Maurer, Jada Jeffries, Delilah Burnett
Instructor: Jennifer Riley Edwards
Concept: Golden Heights Bites
Golden Heights Bites is a small, fast-casual café located in a strip mall near the ProStartville University campus, offering students and local residents a quick and convenient destination for lunch and dinner. Specializing in fresh, from-scratch fries with unique sauces and customizable toppings, the restaurant delivers affordable, potato-themed comfort food designed for busy college schedules and on-the-go families. Through a partnership with the university, students can use meal swipe cards, further enhancing accessibility and convenience.
Beyond serving great food, Golden Heights Bites is committed to giving back by donating a portion of profits and selling co-branded merchandise to support students facing housing and tuition challenges. Blending crave-worthy flavors with community impact, Golden Heights Bites proves that it’s always a good time for fries.
SECOND PLACE: KEMPSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL TEAM IV
Team Roster: Minnie Conant, Nataeyah Johnson, Saphina Walton
Instructor: Jennifer Riley-Edwards
Concept: Breakfast Bites
Located along the ProStartville boardwalk, Breakfast Bites is a vibrant beachside café offering creative, dessert-inspired breakfasts and tropical beverages in a welcoming strip mall setting with dual access from both the parking lot and the boardwalk. Designed as an affordable, family-friendly destination, the café serves customizable smoothies, crepes, donuts, croissants, and French toast (including vegan and gluten-free options) all infused with a coastal, fruity flair.
Open early to accommodate busy mornings and weekend routines, Breakfast Bites provides a convenient stop for families and young adults before a day of activities. Beyond its menu, the café celebrates local creativity through rotating murals and live music, giving homegrown artists a platform to connect with the community. Blending sweet indulgence with community spirit, Breakfast Bites is positioned as a go-to gathering place for both residents and visitors seeking a fresh start to their day.
FIRST PLACE: ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY SCHOOLS
Team Roster: Alexandria Washburn, Makayla Orrell, Addison Gray, Aaliyah Owens
Instructor: Nic Hagen
Concept: The Looking Glass
The Looking Glass is an upscale, chef-driven modern American restaurant located near ProStartville University, offering a warm yet contemporary dining experience centered on transparency and connection. Its open-kitchen design allows guests to observe food preparation in real time, reinforcing trust while showcasing culinary skill and thoughtful, waste-conscious practices. Designed with dark wood tones and reflective elements that echo its name, the restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere suited for both casual lunches and relaxed evening meals.
With value-driven pricing, a fully non-alcoholic handcrafted mocktail program, and a mobile app featuring menu access and loyalty rewards, The Looking Glass caters primarily to students and young professionals seeking quality and affordability. By blending creativity, responsible operations, and genuine hospitality, The Looking Glass establishes itself as a dependable and community-focused dining destination in ProStartville.
