Support Katy ISD Students at the 2025 Miller Career & Technology Center Thanksgiving Fundraiser
As Thanksgiving approaches, the ovens at Miller Career & Technology Center (MCTC) in Katy are warming up for a beloved annual tradition. The 2025 Thanksgiving Fundraiser is back, inviting the community to shop for holiday pies, breads, and more — all handcrafted by students in the Katy ISD Culinary Arts Program.
The event takes place at MCTC’s Old Town Bistro on:
- Wednesday, November 19 | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday, November 20 | 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM
- Location: 1734 Katyland Drive, Katy, TX 77493 (MAP)
- Phone: 281-237-9572
- Note: Credit card only | Enter through Bistro doors
Whether you’re looking for fresh pumpkin bread, a perfectly spiced apple crumble pie, or a dozen warm dinner rolls, you’ll find it at this Katy holiday event — with the added joy of knowing your purchase supports local high school students learning real-world culinary skills.
A Thanksgiving Treat with a Purpose
This isn’t your average bake sale. Every item sold is crafted by junior and senior high school students from across the district, all of whom are enrolled in MCTC’s state-approved Culinary Arts program — a hands-on educational experience that blends classroom instruction with practical kitchen training and real restaurant service.
Students participating in the fundraiser are part of courses like:
- Culinary Arts & Foundations of Restaurant Management (Grades 11–12)
- Practicum in Culinary Arts (Grade 12)
These students don’t just learn to bake — they’re trained in knife skills, food safety, sautéing, grilling, baking, and plate presentation. Many will earn ServeSafe® Manager Certification, setting them up for success in careers such as executive chef, nutritionist, pastry chef, or restaurant owner.
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Where Education Meets Experience
MCTC, part of Katy ISD’s Career & Technical Education (CTE) program, gives students the unique opportunity to explore career pathways in areas like Hospitality & Tourism, Business & Industry, Public Service, and STEM — all while still enrolled in their home campuses. Students attend MCTC for part of the day and return to their regular schools for core academics.
The Old Town Bistro, located inside MCTC, is a fully operational restaurant run by Culinary Arts practicum students. During the Thanksgiving Fundraiser, the Bistro transforms into a welcoming marketplace, and guests are invited to sit down with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and enjoy sweet treats while they shop.
According to the program overview, students rotate through every position in the restaurant — cooking, serving, hosting, and even supervising. It’s a full-circle learning experience that prepares them for life beyond high school.
What’s on the Menu?
Here are just a few of the Thanksgiving goodies available for purchase:
Baked Goods & Pies
- Pumpkin Bread – $10
- Pumpkin Pie – $15
- Cranberry Orange Custard Pie – $20
- Apple Crumble Pie – $20
- Carrot Cake (6") – $15
- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Roll – $25
Holiday Favorites & Extras
- Dinner Rolls (1 dozen) – $10
- Muffins (½ dozen) – $10
- Cookies (assorted, 1 dozen) – $12
- Decorated Sugar Cookies (1 dozen) – $20
- Fresh Cranberry Relish – $10
- Dog Treats (4 count) – $3
All sales are credit card only, and entry is through the Bistro doors, not the main campus entrance.
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Why It Matters
For students, this fundraiser is more than a chance to show off their kitchen chops. It’s a stepping stone toward careers in the food and hospitality industry — and a real-world lesson in customer service, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.
For the community, it’s an opportunity to support local education while bringing home delicious, high-quality baked goods made with care.
So if you’re wondering where to buy Thanksgiving pies in Katy, or looking for local holiday dessert options — this initiative delivers on flavor and heart.
Come early for the best selection — and don’t forget to grab a warm drink and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s a delicious way to give thanks and give back to the talented students of Katy ISD.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
