Stories from the Report to the Community: Northridge's Joanna Fedor Wins top ProStart Award

Joanna Fedor, Family and Consumer Science Teacher at Northridge High School, was named the 2026 Colorado ProStart Teacher of the Year. 

At Northridge High School, 150-200 students participate in the Hospitality and Food Services career pathway, with approximately 50 of those students involved in the ProStart pathway each year. The Colorado ProStart career pathway i sa high school career training program that provides students with hands-on experience in culinary arts, the hospitality industry, business fundamentals, restaurant management, and customer service. 

Fedor loves the relationships she gets to build with students. "My classroom is a place where students can be themselves, try new things, and grow in confidence," she said. "There's something really special about cooking and eating together. It naturally builds connection and creates a sense of family. I see that especially in ProStart, where students often come in as strangers and leave feeling like a family." 

Students leave the program with practical, real-world sills. "Learning how to cook for themselves gives students a sense of independence, and for many, it sparks a lifelong passion," Fedor said. 

Beyond culinary skills, Fedor emphasizes confidence, professionalism, communication, and a strong work ethic - skills that can be used in whatever careers the students decided to pursue. "My goal is for every student to feel prepared, capable, and proud of what they've accomplished," she said. 

These efforts are making an impact, leading to Joanna's nomination and recognition from the Colorado Restaurant Foundation.

"Joanna is a well-respected leader in our school district. She is known by her colleagues to bring energy, joy, and enthusiasm to Northridge High School to both students and staff," said Dr. Deirdre Pilch. "We are lucky she is in District 6!"