The Culinary Program at the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County hosted its annual First Responder Recognition Luncheon on Thursday at the school in Scranton. This year’s event carried special significance as students and staff gathered to honor local hometown heroes in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of 9/11. “This event serves as a powerful service-learning initiative for our students,” said Mark McAndrew, culinary arts instructor at the school. “Beyond the hands-on culinary experience, it offers a meaningful history lesson on the legacy of 9/11 and allows our students to directly express their gratitude to the men and women who keep our communities safe every day.” Guests invited to the tribute included Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti, members of Scranton City Council, and representatives from the Scranton Police Department and Scranton Fire Department. The Career Technology Center provides career and technical education to high school students across 11 surrounding school districts — Abington Heights, Carbondale Area, Dunmore, Forest City Regional, Lakeland, Mid Valley, North Pocono, Scranton, Valley View, Wayne Highlands and Western Wayne. (PHOTOS BY SEAN MCKEAG/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)
Culinary Lab Assistant Caitlynn Ondrako serves food to Scranton Police Department Deputy Chief Joseph Lafferty during the annual First Responder Luncheon at the school in Scranton Thursday, September 10, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)
Students with the Culinary Arts program gather during its annual First Responder Luncheon at the school in Scranton Thursday, September 10, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)
A banner honoring first responders was signed by students of the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County during its annual First Responder Luncheon at the school in Scranton Thursday, September 10, 2026. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER)