The issue we’re facing is that Chef Johnson is being assigned to work mainly with the younger students, even though the older students need her guidance the most. While we understand that the younger kids benefit from her presence, the reality is that juniors and seniors are the ones facing the biggest academic, emotional, and personal transitions. We’re preparing for adulthood, college, careers, and real responsibilities, and having a consistent mentor matters. Chef Johnson has been with us since sophomore year, and she already understands our personalities, our struggles, and our goals. Taking her away from us now removes a source of motivation, stability, and support that many of us rely on. The younger kids are still adjusting to high school, but we’re the ones closest to stepping out into the real world — and her guidance is something we shouldn’t have to lose right when we need it most.

Chef Johnson has been with us since sophomore year, and in that time, she has been way more than just a chef. She has watched us grow, not just as students, but as young adults finding our way. She has supported us through our growth, our development, and even our steps into womanhood and manhood. Every day, she shows up with patience, honesty, and motivation, and that has made a real impact on all of us.

For a lot of students, school can feel stressful, overwhelming, or just tiring. But having someone who cares , someone who treats you like family  makes a huge difference. Chef Johnson has been that for us. She has been a steady mother figure in the building, someone who pushes us when we need to do better and encourages us when we feel like giving up. She talks to us, she listens, and she understands what we’re going through inside and outside of class.