The Harris County Department of Education board room was filled with mouthwatering aromas of turkey and pumpkin as Fortis Academy’s culinary students served a Thanksgiving feast before the Nov. 20 board meeting.

The master chefs plated and served Department board members and the Executive Leadership Team with a 3-course meal. Led by Chef Daisy Alvarez, the campus’ seven culinary students started with a cream cheese pecan and cranberry log salad with a sweet and spicy sauce. HCDE leadership raved about the maple-glazed turkey topped with white gravy sauce. The main entrée was served with potato au gratin, green beans wrapped in bacon, cranberry sauce and cornbread. To round out the festivities, Fortis students had guests searching for more room in their bellies for a slice of pumpkin pound cake drizzled with a cinnamon glaze. In its fourth year, the annual tradition is a highlight for Trustees who eagerly anticipate the culinary magic these talented students bring to the table.