Dressed to the nines in business attire, from combed hair to shined shoes, Mrs. Curran’s Employability students graciously took their seats at the banquet-style tables prepared by the employability students in Newfield High School’s restaurant-transformed Distant Learning Lab Friday afternoon. After studying proper dining techniques over the past few weeks, the simulated environment of the Etiquette Luncheon provided the perfect way for the students to try out their new skills in a life-like situation. Soon the event was joined by Principal Graviano; Assistant Principals, Mrs. Carella-Dean and Mr. Tangney, other staff members, and after a brief review of appropriate conversations, the afternoon began. 

With Mrs. Curran’s guidance, the class and faculty were shown how to properly butter their bread while DECA student volunteers, Jenna Kruger, Maria Ramirez, and Angelina Anastasia, filled glasses with preferred beverages and taking orders. Kindly donated by Ms. Patinella’s Varsity Leaders Club, the food catered from Peace Love Dinner provided guests with the options of breaded chicken, chicken parmigiana, baked ziti, or spaghetti and butter. Having practiced in class, conversation over lunch went smoothly and the meal was enthusiastically enjoyed.

As the guests finished their meals, DECA historian, Brandon Le, circled the room photographing the event by capturing natural excitement, posing students and staff, and taking fun group pictures. The servers collected the empty plates and posed a variety of dessert options, including assorted layer cakes and flavors of Mini-Melt ice cream.

“I have to say, this has been the best part of my day. This food, and getting to know you all a little better.” Mrs. Carella-Dean’s review sums up the occasion perfectly. Mrs. Curran’s Employability Etiquette Luncheon was a huge success and will hopefully become an annual event.