Johnston High School Teacher Named 2025 Iowa ProStart® Educator of Excellence

JOHNSTON, Ia. (May, 5 2025) — Claire Anderson, a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher at Johnston High School, has been named the 2025 Iowa ProStart® Educator of Excellence by the Iowa Restaurant Association Education Foundation (IRAEF). Selected from over 40 educators, she will be honored at the Iowa Restaurant Association’s annual awards gala this November.Claire Anderson

Since launching Johnston’s ProStart program four years ago, Anderson has emphasized the importance of students earning the National ProStart Certificate of Achievement (COA). The COA is an industry recognized certification earned by passing two national exams, demonstrating proficiency in culinary and entrepreneurial skills, and working 400+ hours in the hospitality industry.

“The COA is more than a final credential,” explained Anderson. “It’s a launchpad for personal growth and professional advancement, no matter what career path students pursue.”

Last year, Johnston High School was recognized with earning the most National Certificates of Achievement with Iowa ProStart — eight JHS culinary students received the certification in 2023-2024. That’s in addition to three JHS students who received the national certification the previous year.

Anderson brings real-world industry experience into the classroom through field trips, guest speakers, and visits to culinary colleges, ensuring her students are workforce-ready. She also prioritizes parent engagement, empowering parents as allies, highlighting the program’s career potential and reinforcing student support both at home and at school.

Image 123650291“Claire’s passion for building relationships with professionals in the restaurant industry, fostering industry mentoring experiences, and advocating for students’ success makes her an undeniable choice for this award,” said IRAEF Executive Director May Schaben.

National ProStart Educator of Excellence Award

Anderson will also be nominated for the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation’s James H. Maynard Teacher of the Year Award, which honors one exceptional ProStart educator nationwide annually.

Iowa Restaurant Association Education Foundation (IRAEF) 

The IRAEF promotes hospitality as a professional career path and provides educational programs for the advancement of the restaurant and retail beverage industries in Iowa.

ProStart Program

ProStart is a nationwide career-building program that combines culinary arts and restaurant management training for high school students, offering industry certifications and real-world experience.