BVSD Middle Schoolers Face Off in 2025 Iron Chef Competition

The heat was on at the BVSD Culinary Center on Wednesday, March 19, as five talented middle school teams battled it out in the 2025 BVSD Iron Chef Competition. Selected from a pool of 30 applicants, these young chefs from Louisville Middle School, Eldorado K-8, Monarch K-8, Platt Middle School, and Summit Middle School put their skills to the test in a live showdown featuring bold flavors and impressive techniques.

For the first time, the competition took place in the Boulder Tech Teaching Kitchen, a professional space where these students can one day apply their skills in the Boulder Tech Culinary Arts program as high schoolers. “Holding it in this space really elevated the competition and the quality of the final dishes,” said District Manager Barbara MacLeod. The student teams wowed the judges with their “Around the World” themed dishes, including Jerk Chicken, Orange Chicken, a Gourmet Greek Gyro, Grandma’s Asopao, and a Thai Noodle Bowl.

After a lengthy deliberation, The eight judges—including BVSD chefs and managers, a Boulder Tech culinary teacher and student, and a competition sponsor—agreed on a winner. “This was the toughest decision we’ve ever had,” said MacLeod. With spectators and students anxiously gathered, Warehouse Manager and emcee Doug Kasarosian announced The Super Cookers, Lyra Schwarz and Megan Firth, as this year’s champions for their outstanding dish Grandma’s Asopao, a comforting Puerto Rican stew. Carolyn Villa, BVSD Food Services Director, presented the team with a "big check" for $300 to go to their school, Louisville Middle. Per the BVSD Iron Chef tradition, the winning team will also see their dish featured on next year's school menu. The four other competing teams’ schools also received donations in recognition of their hard work.

A beloved tradition of BVSD’s School Food Project, the Iron Chef competition continues to unite culinary staff, students, educators, and the community. Program & Grants Coordinator Marissa Benson commented, “My favorite thing about our Iron Chef is the way everyone on our team pitches in to make it so memorable.” She added that many attendees commented this was the best one yet!

Special thanks to the Daily Camera for attending and covering the event, and to Geoff Stella, General Manager of Savory Spices for providing all spices used and for serving as a judge.