NEWS/PR: That’s a Wrap! But this is Just the Start as Gervais School District’s Food Truck Rolls Out with Flavor, Fun, and a Future ready Focus!
Gervais School District Rolls Out New Culinary Food Truck with CTE Revitalization Grant
The Gervais School District has officially launched its brand-new culinary food truck, a key milestone in the district’s commitment to Career and Technical Education (CTE) and hands-on learning opportunities for students. Funded through an Oregon Department of Education CTE Revitalization Grant, this innovative mobile kitchen was completed just before Spring Break 2025, and it’s already making a big impact for educational program planning and the imaginations of the Gervais School Districts students.
The truck’s construction was completed in March by PDX Cart Builders, specialists in designing and fabricating custom food trucks. Immediately following Spring Break, the district’s culinary team received hands-on training from PDX Cart Builders to learn the ins and outs of operating the truck and all the new equipment safely and efficiently.
Gervais School District Staff learning all about operation of the New Food Truck with PDX Cart Builders
On April 15, 2025, the Gervais School District Board of Directors and administrators gathered for their scheduled meeting and took the time to celebrate this exciting new chapter during a special dinner, tour, and christening ceremony held as part of their Board Work Session. The first meal service from the truck was prepared by Gervais High School culinary instructor Maddysen Van Dewalker, who served a delicious chicken Caesar salad and a delightful berry cobbler. The dinner marked the official debut of the food truck and the beginning of a new era for Gervais students interested in culinary arts, entrepreneurship, and real-world job skills.
Meeting Students Where They Are: Real-World Skills for Post-Graduation Success
At a time when school districts are increasingly focused on equipping students with skills that translate to college, career, and beyond, the Gervais School District food truck is a shining example of how CTE programs can bridge the gap between classroom learning and workforce readiness.
Instructor Maddysen Van Dewalker shared how the food truck will be integrated into the high school’s culinary program, offering students hands-on experience in food preparation, customer service, menu planning, and even business operations. “The students are so excited about this opportunity,” said Maddy. “They keep asking if today is a cooking day,” they’re ready to roll!
Food truck culture has exploded in popularity across Oregon, the Pacific Northwest, and it represents more than just mobile meals. Food trucks offer a unique entry point into small business ownership, creative culinary expression, and flexible career paths, whether students dream of opening their own cart, working in hospitality, or managing operations behind the scenes.
This program not only aligns with students’ interests, but it also introduces them to entrepreneurship, customer service, health and safety compliance, inventory management, and marketing, all in a dynamic and engaging environment. These are the kinds of 21st-century skills that students can take with them into any industry.
Partnering for Student Success
R&C Management Group is proud to partner with Gervais School District on this forward-thinking project. The district’s strategic use of CTE Revitalization Grant funding is creating new opportunities for high school students that are relevant, engaging, and rooted in community needs. From increasing career exploration to building student confidence in public-facing roles, the new food truck is more than just a mobile kitchen, it’s a classroom on wheels and a symbol of innovation.
This project reflects the power of partnership and the value of investing in career-connected learning that meets students where they are, while helping them get to where they want to be.
Congratulations to Gervais School District, the culinary education team, and all the students who will shape the future of this program!
Learn more about Gervais School District here: Gervais School – Gervais Oregon School District
Learn more about the (ODE) CTE Revitalization Grant here: Oregon Department of Education : CTE Revitalization Grant : CTE Funding : State of Oregon
Learn More about R&C Management Group’s history of serving Gervais School District here: Gervais School District — R&C Management Group, LLC
