In 2024, the South Dakota Retailers Association named LaKisha Jordan the ProStart State Educator of Excellence. This award was given to her in recognition of her dedication to giving her students real-world experiences in culinary and restaurant settings on a national scale.
At T.F. Riggs High School in Pierre, where she teaches Family and Consumer Sciences, Jordan believes in cultivating culinary curiosity by sparking a passion for flavor exploration rather than just teaching recipes. Her teaching philosophy focuses on engaging students in hands-on experiences that go beyond traditional coursework. She provides opportunities for her students to participate in catering events and host community cooking classes, allowing them to gain valuable experience in the field.
Jordan’s commitment to providing her students with real-world experiences has earned her the title of the 2024 ProStart State Educator of Excellence. She is proud to be recognized for her efforts to prepare the next generation of leaders in the culinary and restaurant industry.