Celebrating our TVAH finalist in the 2025 K12 National Cook-Off!

We are thrilled to announce that one of our talented 9th grade students, Isla, has been selected as a finalist in the prestigious 2025 K12 National Cook-Off! This incredible achievement highlights their impressive culinary skills and creativity.

About the Competition

The K12 National Cook-Off is an annual event that brings together young culinary enthusiasts from across the country. K12-powered students in grades 6–12 were challenged to bring their best recipes to the table for a shot at becoming one of five finalists. These five talented chefs will now advance to an exciting in-person showdown where they will compete for a $1,000 grand prize! 

How Isla Became a Cook-Off Finalist 

Isla impressed the judges with their outstanding dish, Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon, a delicious creation featuring “a salmon dish with parmesan basil and a little bit of garlic and olive oil crusted with panko with almond brittle, paprika sauce, along with herb foam on top.” With countless hours spent perfecting the recipe, experimenting with flavors, and honing their presentation skills, their hard work truly paid off!

Here’s why Isla chose to create their dish: 

“I choose to make this dish because I was trying to come up with something original. I was looking up dishes and wrote down which factors I liked about it and what flavors would mix…”

What’s next? 

As a finalist, Isla will receive a paid trip to Arlington, Virginia, to compete in the final round of the K12 National Cook-Off on June 6, 2025! There, they will vie for the grand prize, meet professional chef judges, and connect with other talented K12-powered students. 

We couldn’t be prouder of Isla and can’t wait to cheer them on! 

Join us in celebrating!

Let’s rally behind Isla as they represent Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville in this exciting competition! Follow their journey to the finals on Instagram at @K12.student, and stay tuned for more updates. 

Congratulations, Isla! Your dedication and creativity inspire us all—we’re rooting for you. 

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