Academy Prep Center of Lakeland's Cookin’ For Kids

Celebrity Chef Showdown in Support of the Student Scholarship Fund

Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 5:30 pm 

Get ready for a sizzling night of flavor, fun, and fierce competition at Cookin’ For Kids–Academy Prep Center of Lakeland’s signature culinary fundraiser in support of the Student Scholarship Fund. This one-of-a-kind event brings together the heart of the community and the heat of the kitchen in a celebrity chef battle, where local VIPs team up with Academy Prep scholars serving as sous chefs to prepare unforgettable dishes. Guided by two acclaimed Top Chefs, these local personalities will go head-to-head in a friendly—but fiery—competition for the ultimate title of Cookin’ For Kids Champion. A panel of celebrity judges will lend their expert taste buds to score each dish, while guests enjoy an interactive evening full of flavor, inspiration, and impact. All proceeds from the event directly benefit the Student Scholarship Fund, helping to ensure bright futures for deserving students.

Featuring Top Chefs:

Tina Calhoon – Frescos Southern Kitchen & Bar

Dorcas Crumbley – Essential Catering Solutions

Featuring Celebrity Chefs:

Stacy Butterfield – Polk County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller

Guy LaLonde Jr. – Lakeland City Commissioner

Stephanie Madden – Lakeland City Commissioner

Joe Tedder – Polk County Tax Collector

Tickets and sponsorships are available now for this high-energy evening of culinary creativity and community spirit. Don’t miss your chance to support a great cause while witnessing local stars turn up the heat—in the name of education.