Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian proudly hosted the 14th graduation of the Inmate Culinary Arts Program at the Billerica House of Correction on Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 11:00 am. Also at the ceremony, nine inmates who recently earned their General Education Diploma were recognized for their dedication to their education.
The Culinary inmates received their certificates of participation and showcased their skills by preparing lunch for those in attendance. Speaking at the event was a former Culinary Arts Program graduate who has since gone on to work in the food service industry.
“These are the days you don’t get to see very often, the very good days, a testament to the goodness of what we can do and what you can do,” said Sheriff Koutoujian to the graduating inmates at the event. “This is an opportunity for you to do so much more with your lives. This is an opportunity for your families to be proud.”
The Inmate Culinary Arts Program is an innovative and progressive education / rehabilitation program within the walls of the Middlesex House of Correction. After almost 400 hours of training in a twelve-week course, all graduating inmates earn a Certificate of Participation from Shawsheen Technical High School, a five-year SERVSAFE sanitation certificate and the opportunity to transfer nine class credits to Middlesex Community College. These individuals gain the skills necessary to start a career in the food industry and become productive members of society.
State Representative Chris Walsh (D-Framingham) attended the event.
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