ProStart Culinary Program Expands in South Dakota Schools
High school students in 28 communities can now access a two-year course in culinary arts and restaurant management.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Secondary Education
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South Dakota high schools are reaching record participation in the ProStart culinary arts program, a two-year course. Students at Elkton High School and Lower Brule High School will now have access to the program for the first time.
Why it matters
The program prepares students for restaurant careers by providing early exposure to industry operations. This expansion brings professional training in culinary arts and management to more families across the state.
The program is currently active in 28 communities across South Dakota. The curriculum spans two years and covers both front-of-the-house and back-of-the-house restaurant management.
The players
South Dakota Retailers Association
An organization that coordinates the ProStart program for high schools across South Dakota.
Elkton High School
A secondary school in South Dakota that is offering the ProStart culinary program for the first time.
Lower Brule High School
A secondary school in South Dakota that is offering the ProStart culinary program for the first time.
The details
ProStart introduces students to the professional side of the food industry through a structured two-year curriculum. The course covers both culinary arts and the management side of operations, helping students understand how restaurants function from start to finish.
Timeline
2026-2027 school year: Record participation levels achieved for the ProStart program.
The Home Front
This state-wide growth follows a pattern set by the national expansion of the ProStart industry-recognized certification program. It highlights a shift in how secondary schools are integrating vocational career training into their core curriculum.
Parents of students at participating schools should inquire with their guidance counselors about how this two-year course may count toward elective credits. Consider discussing with your student whether a career in culinary arts or management aligns with their post-graduation plans.
The takeaway
The growth of professional culinary training in high schools provides a valuable head start for students interested in hospitality careers. Families should review local course catalogs to see if this certification path is available to their high schoolers.
Further reading
For more on how local schools are preparing students for trade careers, see Secondary Education.
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