Teacher's pride evident at Elgin High School

Despite all of the financial issues that Elgin Area School District U-46 faces, most of the teachers are doing a great job on a small budget. One in particular is Larry Prine of Elgin High School.

On May 13 my wife and I had the honor of attending the candlelight dinner that "Prine" (as the students refer to him) and his class of "Clumsy Chefs" hosted for the parents and families of the students.

What a wonderful job they all did. The food was outstanding, the service was great and the overall atmosphere was very enjoyable. My wife and I have both been in the restaurant business for more than 20 years and one of the things that were most enjoyable was watching the chefs do their thing.

There is a lot of pressure and there is very little time and to put out a seven-course meal is no easy feat even for a seasoned veteran. They were a bit rushed and lived up to their name but still managed to keep it in the kitchen and allowed the guests to have an enjoyable experience.

When we arrived we were greeted by three chefs serving "mocktails" and butler style hors d'oeuvres. All were very tasty and served with a lot of smiles.

We were then escorted into a classroom that has been transformed into a dining room by the students. With candles on the tables, all of the students in their chef's coats and Mr. Prine in a tux, the meal began. The food was incredible and the plate presentation was outstanding.

Throughout the meal, between each course, Mr. Prine introduced each of the preparing chefs and gave them the opportunity to explain how each dish was prepared and what ingredients were used.

The meals ended with the students bringing Mr. Prine a birthday cake and singing to him.

This to me is what made the evening such a success. The respect and admiration that all of his students show is a testament to Mr. Prine. Who does so much with such little resources. It is an honor to have such great teachers in our district.

John Downey

Elgin