Culinary Arts: Hands-On Cooking and Career Exploration

February 21, 2026 @ 9:30AM — 11:00AM Central Time (US & Canada) Add to Calendar

Tyler Junior College: 1327 S Baxter Ave 257 County Road 3110 Tyler, TX 75701 Get Directions

Culinary Arts: Hands-On Cooking and Career Exploration image
Share:

Step into the kitchen and explore the delicious world of culinary arts with Chef Larry Matson and Chef Rebekah Pool! In this interactive, hands-on session, participants will learn to make a classic strawberry shortcake, practicing kitchen skills, teamwork, and creativity. Beyond cooking, the session will provide an inside look at the culinary industry, helping attendees discover what a career in food preparation, hospitality, or culinary arts could look like. Whether you’re curious about cooking for fun or exploring a potential career path, this session offers inspiration, practical skills, and plenty of fun.

Presenter: Chef Larry Matson and Chef Rebekah Pool

Time: 9:30-11am (1.5-hour session) **Will Span Across Two Breakout Sessions**

Class size limit: 15
Age range: 11+

Notes: Attendees should be able to handle noise and close proximity to others and should have functionable hand mobility.

Who Should Attend: Youth and adults on the autism spectrum interested in cooking, hands-on learning, or exploring careers in the culinary industry. No prior cooking experience required—just bring your curiosity and appetite!

Breakout Session Participation Requirements
To ensure a safe, supportive, and successful experience for all participants, the following minimum abilities and requirements apply to youth and adults attending breakout sessions designed for individuals on the autism spectrum:
Participants must:
  • Be able to communicate their needs (verbally, with AAC, or other reliable communication methods)
  • Be fully potty trained
  • Be able to participate in an activity for up to 45 minutes
  • Be able to follow basic directions
  • Be paired with a designated buddy and must never be left alone during the session
  • 14 years old and up
Drop-Off & Pick-Up Policy:
  • Parents or caregivers must drop off and pick up participants directly at the assigned classroom for each breakout session
  • Participants may only be released to their parent or designated caregiver at the end of the session
Required Registration Information:
To help us provide appropriate support and ensure safety, you will be asked to provide the following information during registration: (jess please simply make question with a field for them to type in)
  • Autism spectrum level (if known)
  • Participant’s fields of interest
  • Emergency contact information
  • Whether the participant is an elopement risk (yes or no)
Providing accurate and complete information allows us to plan staffing, assign buddies appropriately, and create the best possible experience for your loved one.
Thank you for partnering with us to make these breakout sessions safe, engaging, and meaningful for everyone.
Attendees