My name is Matt Gertz and I will be your student's Culinary Arts teacher.  This is my second year teaching Culinary Arts at Gulfport High School. My background includes a teaching degree in Social Studies from the University of Southern Mississippi and 20 plus years of experience working in the culinary/service industry.  My experiences range from starting as a dish washer in a restaurant to becoming Director of Food and Nutrition in a hospital.  Through these experiences and continued education, I have learned the tools needed to be successful in the culinary/service industry.  My goal is to provide your student with real-world and hands-on experiences to help them be successful as well.  Regardless of whether your student desires to become a chef or to cook a meal for family, it is my desire that he/she will leave the Culinary Arts program at Gulfport High School more passionate and confident in whatever future culinary endeavors he/she chooses.