STEFAN CZAPOROWSKI
The last day of school for students at Westfield Vocational Technical High School will be June 24. It will also mark the end of an era at our school as Chef Edward Chrzanowski will move on toward a well deserved retirement. Chef Chrzanowski came to WVTHS in 1994 after the expansion of our school that included the addition of a Culinary Arts program. He has been instrumental in starting and maintaining the program curriculum, establishing our school restaurant and inspiring students and staff over the course of his career.
Mr. Chrzanowski is known by the staff at WVTHS for consistently going above and beyond expectations. He is at the school before the students arrive and still here well after they leave, preparing for functions and offering extra help to students that need it. Chef Chrzanowski has also been responsible for providing the meals at many events at our school, including the Annual Craft Fair, Freshman Orientation Cookouts, Senior Breakfasts, dinner for Into the Arts, and General Advisory Dinners. In addition, at our after school faculty meetings, Mr. Chrzanowski always has coffee, tea, water, and an assortment of baked goods for all of us. For years, staff members recall him running into the auditorium during school assemblies dressed in a purple and gold tie dye t-shirt, shorts, knee socks, and a head band for the sole purpose of motivating the crowd. “I have been working with Ed Chrzanowski for over seven years. He is one of the most caring and compassionate teachers that I have ever met. He wants his students and all WVTHS students to succeed, and he really has a great sense of humor,” said Charlie Pignatare, Automotive Technology Instructor.
When I asked students about Chef Chrzanowski, seniors Evelyn Beckett and Dan Masso said, “He is a very inspiring and caring teacher who is always determined to get the day’s work done. He is definitely someone you can look up to.” Evelyn continued, “Mr. C. is my hero. He has helped me change from a shy young girl to an out-going young woman with a lot of self confidence.” Dan added, “Mr. C. is definitely a pusher. In the past two years, he has guided me in the direction where I know that I will make culinary history. He is the one person who has put the most faith in me and my ability.” Incidentally, under the guidance of Chef Chrzanowski, Dan will attend Johnson and Wales University for Culinary Arts in the fall. Sally Davis, another senior said, “I couldn’t have learned anything about Culinary Arts that I know now without the help of Mr. C, he has brought me to where I am today. He was so supportive and knowledgeable. He has the qualities that every teacher should strive for.”
On May 23, I attended “Taste of the Voc.” This is the annual Senior Project that has the students putting on a dinner where they choose and prepare a menu item that best demonstrates their learned skills. Over the past several years, Chef Chrzanowski has guided the students through this preparation process, giving lucky guests the opportunity to taste a little of each students’ “project.” This year, menu items included BLT sliders with a Creamy Parmesan Mayonnaise, Stuffed Pepper Soup, Flat Iron Steak and Romaine Salad with a Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette, Cioppino with a slice of Foccacia, Plove, Planked Herb Mustard Glazed Salmon with Brussel Sprouts and Brown Rice, Asian Noodles and Chicken with Julienne Slaw and Viva Madrid Chicken with Rice. As if that was not enough, the desserts that we were treated to included a Blueberry Bread Pudding, Flancocho, and a Waffle Bowl with Strawberry Ice Cream and Hot Fudge garnished with a Chocolate Covered Strawberry. Every single menu item was outstanding, a credit to the students and Mr. Chrzanowski. Megan Bilodeau, an English teacher at WVTHS said, “The dinner is a wonderful opportunity to show support for the students, to mingle with colleagues and parents, and to fill your belly with amazing food. It’s a great night for everyone.” The purpose of the project was for students to demonstrate the skills they have learned over the last four years. With these results, Mr. Chrzanowski has every reason to be proud. His work ethic and knowledge will be missed by both staff and students.
Chef Chrzanowski and his students will serve their last meal on Thursday, June 13 from 10:45 a.m. until 12:15 p.m. at the school restaurant, Tiger’s Pride. This will also be that last time the restaurant will be open to the public until next school year. Please join us as we celebrate with great food from a great chef and bring closure to the career of a dedicated and inspirational teacher and friend.
Stefan Czaporowski
Principal
Westfield Vocational Technical High School
