Pros
Getting to work and cook with kids
Cons
The curriculum is not well researched, mostly pulled from quick Google searches, often resulting in an offensive and culturally insensitive and inaccurate lesson. Students with disabilities are often discriminated against and encouraged not to take the classes. Many of the teachers are in their first year of working with children, and given very little training or guidance about how to work with them. I was advised to 'get in the faces' of the children who are not following instructions. Not all teachers receive a background check or livescan before entering the schools for the first time, though both are required, leading to possible dangerous situations. Paychecks are often late and inaccurate. Prep time is required and necessary, and can take up to 2 hours per class, but uncompensated -- this adds up if you are teaching multiple classes per week, which is also not guaranteed. Hours are not reliable. Commutes to classes can be long, and often expensive (parking, bridge toll, gas), with no compensation. Director requires a debrief after each class, but does not compensate for the time spent. Calls often come after hours, and if not received will result in disciplinary conversations. Equipment is old and not well maintained: many rusty pans, electrical stoves that do not work, dull knives, all leading to a very unsafe cooking environment ESPECIALLY with children. This organization is not ethical, and does not treat its employees and contractors fairly or with respect, which leads to fast and continuous turnover.