As we bid farewell to Ms. Ellis, our beloved culinary arts teacher, we reflect on her remarkable 30-year journey at Mendham High School. Her contributions to our school community have not only improved our culinary program but have also left an indelible mark on the hearts of countless students. Ms. Ellis began her culinary journey immediately after high school, enrolling at the Culinary Institute of America. After gaining invaluable experience working in restaurants, she wanted to share her knowledge with others. “I went to chef school right out of high school and did restaurant work for several years,” she explained. “Over a period of time, I realized I wanted to do something else.” With a degree from Montclair State University, she stepped into the role of culinary arts teacher, igniting a passion for food and cooking in future generations.
Reflecting on her career choice, Ms. Ellis emphasized her love for teaching, when asked what she loves most about cooking she answered: “You guys, the kids.” This sentiment resonates through the halls of Mendham, where her enthusiasm has inspired students to explore their creativity in the kitchen and beyond.
Ms. Ellis’s dedication to her students extends well beyond the confines of the classroom. She has created a warm and nurturing environment where students feel encouraged to express themselves, experiment with flavors, and develop their culinary skills. Many students have shared fond memories of her classes, recalling not only the technical skills they learned but also the genuine care and support she provided. One standout moment occurred during a senior breakfast a few years ago, when former student Case Robbins surprised Ms. Ellis by leading the entire class in singing “Happy Birthday.” This heartfelt gesture was just one of the many examples of the lasting impact Ms. Ellis has had on her students throughout her remarkable 30-year career. It’s not just her culinary expertise that makes her such a beloved teacher, but also the deep personal connections she formed with each student. Such memories are common among students, many of whom remember her for her culinary lessons and the life lessons she imparted, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, creativity, and perseverance. Senior, Nic Gamba remembers, “That class was legendary, there was such a wide variety of recipes. I loved making potato latkes – they were delicious,” when asked what his favorite memory was.
Whether it was helping them perfect a recipe or offering guidance during a difficult time, Ms. Ellis made every student feel seen and valued. Her classroom became more than just a place to learn the art of cooking; it was a space where students were encouraged to grow, build confidence, and create lasting memories.
Under Ms. Ellis’s guidance, the culinary program at Mendham has evolved significantly, particularly with the incorporation of the farm-to-table movement. Recognizing the importance of fresh, local ingredients, she spearheaded the creation of a garden and greenhouse at Mendham. This initiative has not only enhanced the culinary curriculum but also fostered a deeper understanding of sustainability among students. The garden and greenhouse are milestones that Ms. Ellis is particularly proud of in her career. They represent a blend of education and practical experience; students have engaged in planting, harvesting, and cooking with fresh ingredients, creating a tangible connection to the culinary world. Ms. Ellis has witnessed significant changes in the culinary industry throughout her career.
From evolving food trends to increasing emphasis on sustainability, she has remained committed to adapting her teaching to reflect these changes. One major concern she highlighted was the factory food system prevalent in the U.S. “Most of the food produced is handled by just a few massive companies,” she explained. “We saw real issues during COVID with shortages and access to quality food.” In her classroom, Ms. Ellis has emphasized essential skills such as mise en place- the preparation and organization of ingredients- and the importance of seasoning food. These foundational practices are not only critical to success in the kitchen but also mirror the discipline, attention to detail, and patience that Ms. Ellis instilled in her students. Understanding mise en place, for instance, teaches students that good cooking begins with careful planning and organization. By prepping ingredients in advance and ensuring everything is in its proper place, students learn how to work efficiently and confidently, a skill that serves them well in both culinary endeavors and life. These lessons have been cornerstones of Ms. Ellis’ teaching, hoping her students not only excel in the kitchen but also approach their work with precision, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the craft. Her emphasis on
these skills has equipped countless students with the tools they need to succeed, both in the culinary world and in any future pursuits where organization, attention to detail, and the pursuit of excellence are key. For those considering a career in the culinary arts, Ms. Ellis offers valuable advice. “Be patient. Regardless of your training, you’ll start at the bottom and work your way up. Learn as much as possible and try new things,” she advises. Her belief in the importance of continuous learning is evident in her retirement plans. As she prepares for this new chapter, Ms. Ellis has expressed excitement about taking on new challenges. “I’m going to take care of my two granddaughters, travel, and even go back to school to keep learning,” she shared. Her desire for continuous growth is a testament to her passion for education and culinary arts.
As Ms. Ellis prepares to leave the classroom, her influence will undoubtedly continue through the many students she has inspired over the years. Several of her former students have gone on to pursue careers in the culinary field, reflecting the impact she has as an educator. “I have had several students who have become professional chefs,” she mentioned with pride, knowing she played a part in their journey is incredibly rewarding. After shadowing Ms. Ellis for a year, Mrs. DeMiceli was inspired to step into the role of culinary arts teacher.
Ms. Ellis, your dedication, passion, and warmth will be deeply missed at Mendham High School. You have shaped the lives of so many students, and your legacy will live on in the culinary skills and love for food that you instilled in them. As we celebrate your retirement, we thank you for your years of service, your incredible recipes, and the memories that will last a lifetime. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Here’s to new adventures, filled with joy, laughter, and, of course, delicious food! Your impact on our school and community will be felt for years to come, and we hope you carry with you the love and appreciation of all of us who had the privilege of learning from you.