Whether you dream of being a chef, a restaurant manager, or a food entrepreneur, TK202 is here to help you make it happen!

Teaching Kitchen 202 is your gateway to an exciting culinary world, specially crafted for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals like you. TK202 offers an immersive culinary program in two ways: on-site with a cohort of peers or virtually for those who need to stay closer to home. Here at TK202, we blend hands-on kitchen experience with comprehensive classroom learning, all in American Sign Language (ASL)*.

Why You’ll Kiss-Fist TK202 Learn About Our Mission and Vision

Our Program Structure

TK202 is a 15-week occupational certification program designed to give you a comprehensive and immersive experience in the culinary arts.

Here’s how our program is structured to help you succeed:

Classroom Learning

60 Hours: Gain foundational knowledge in culinary theory and restaurant management through engaging classes conducted in ASL*. Our courses are taught in person and virtually with a curriculum covering different aspects of working in professional culinary spaces.

* If you need to whisk up your ASL, no worries—we have Non-Credit Remedial Courses for ASL at no additional cost as part of our offering!

Hands-On Training

195 Hours: Put your skills to the test with practical lab experience using real-world kitchen experiences. TK202 students have access to opportunities to strengthen their culinary skills through immersive hands-on activities.

Practicum

400 Hours: Engage in a comprehensive practicum, through TK202’s collaboration with partners, where you apply what you’ve learned in actual culinary operations, preparing you for a successful career in the food industry.

ASL Classes

If you need to whisk up your ASL, no worries! TK202 has virtual Non-Credit Remedial courses for ASL. We offer ASL I, II, III, and IV at no cost as part of our offering.

Session Schedule

TK202 runs three sessions each year, offering flexibility to start your culinary journey at a time that suits you best. Each session is designed to provide a thorough and immersive learning experience.

Topics discussed in each session will cover professional culinary skills such as Food Handlers, Sanitization, Food Pre-Production and Production, Plating, Allergens, and more!

Ready to Apply? Apply Here!

Why You’ll Kiss-Fist TK202

TK202 isn’t just a program – it’s a community where your growth and success are our top priorities. Here’s why you’ll love it here:

ASL-Integrated Learning

Learn in ASL, your language! All our courses are taught in ASL, so you’re fully engaged and connected. No barriers, just clear and fun learning.

Real-World Experience

Gain valuable experience with our hands-on, immersive experience either in person or virtually. You’ll be ready to take on any role in the food industry, from cooking to managing.

Supportive Environment

Join a community that understands you! Connect with peers, mentors, and industry pros who support your journey.

Backed By CSD

Feel supported by CSD, the world’s largest Deaf-led social impact organization. For over 45 years, CSD has been empowering the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. With their backing, you’re set for success!

CSD Learns is the driving force behind TK202. We empower the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community by providing top-quality education and resources in ASL. Our team of Deaf and ASL-fluent educators creates inclusive, engaging learning environments tailored to your success. With CSD Learns, you’ll reach new heights in your career and beyond.

Visit CSD Learns Website

CSD Works fuels TK202’s mission by creating pathways for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals to access fulfilling careers and equitable opportunities. We connect job seekers with inclusive employers while providing tailored support, training, and advocacy to ensure long-term success. Through innovative programs, CSD Works transforms possibilities and fosters workplaces celebrating diversity and accessibility.

Visit CSD Works Website

Meet Your Team

Our team at TK202 is as passionate about your success as you are! We bring together experienced Deaf and ASL-fluent professionals who are ready to guide you through every step of your culinary journey.

Christina Hopewell-Albert, Ed.D.
Chief School Officer and Vice President of Program Impact
Ed.D. in Education, MA in Linguistics, and BA in Linguistics/Deaf Studies with 20 years of teaching experience and 11 years in educational leadership.
Genelle Sanders, Ph.D.
Director of CSD Learns and Development
Ph.D. in Communications, MBA in Management, MA in Communications and Media, and BA in English/Rhetoric with 13 years of teaching experience and 6+ years in communications.
Liann Osborne, Ed.D.
Director of Employment Services
Ed.D. in Educational Leadership for Social Justice, Master's in Rehabilitation Counseling and Marriage Family Counseling, and a BA in Humanities, with 12 years of counseling experience and 12 years in educational leadership.
Jonathan Ferrer, MSA
CSD Access Operations Manager
MSA in Organizational Management and a BA in Business Administration and Management, with over 10 years of experience advocating for and providing accessibility services, ensuring inclusive environments for all.

Mission

Teaching Kitchen 202 (TK202) is dedicated to empowering deaf and hard of hearing youth and adults through accessible and inclusive culinary education. Our mission is to provide them with the knowledge, practical experience, and employment skills necessary to thrive in today’s job market and pursue competitive careers in the restaurant and food industry.

Vision

Teaching Kitchen 202 (TK202) envisions a world where deaf and hard of hearing individuals have equal access and opportunities in the culinary field. We strive to create a culinary training environment that nurtures talent, promotes inclusivity, and prepares our students to become successful professionals in the culinary arts and food industry.

Learn How You Can Partner with Us

What are you waiting for? Whether you dream of being a chef, a restaurant manager, or a food entrepreneur, TK202 is here to help you make it happen! Apply now!

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