Virginia ProStart

Shaping Virginia's Culinary Future

ProStart is a career and technical education program that unites the foodservice industry and the classroom to teach high school students culinary skills and restaurant management principles, as well as employability skills such as communication, teamwork, professionalism, and time management.

The program reaches more than 222,000 students in 2,200 schools in all 50 states, Washington, DC, and the Territories of Guam and Puerto Rico. Over the past 27 years, more than 1 million students have participated in ProStart.

ProStart is taught with a two-level curriculum that:

Integrates practical skill sets
Allows students to become familiar with restaurants and foodservice
Exposes students to innovative career opportunities
Provides tools and skills needed to become a successful industry leader

ProStart students finish the program ready to join the workforce and make an immediate impact in restaurants and foodservice.Students also learn the importance of arriving on time prepared for work, teamwork and accountability.

Teachers: ProStart Teacher Institute & Professional Development

Join us Tuesday, June 23 - Wednesday, June 24 for a dynamic two-day professional development experience designed to strengthen ProStart programs and elevate your classroom impact! Through a blend of industry insights, hands-on workshops, and collaborative discussions, you’ll explore the latest curriculum updates, refine culinary and management teaching strategies, and learn how to expand student opportunities through credentials, work-based learning, and career pathways.

Connect with fellow educators, gain practical tools you can implement immediately, and walk away re-energized with new ideas to grow your program and support student success. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting and transformative experience!

More Ways to Get Involved

Mentor ProStart Students

Engage with ProStart by visiting a ProStart classroom, hosting a field trip at your restaurant or offices, or observing students in the kitchen. Contact Dr. Jai Girard, Director of of Education & Workforce Development, to connect with your local ProStart school.

Hire a ProStart Student or Alumni

ProStart students know culinary arts and restaurant management essentials. They're dependable, natural leaders and are eager to learn.

Co-Brand a VRLTA Foundation Scholarship

Help high school students pursue their culinary dreams with a VRLTA Foundation Scholarship! Contact Dr. Jai Girard to learn more.

Participate in the Virginia ProStart Invitational

Show your support on the biggest ProStart day of the year! There are a ton of great ways to get involved with the Virginaia ProStart Invitational (VPSI):