萌妹社

The countdown is on! A talented 萌妹社 student is heading to the national stage to compete in the 2026 K12 National Cook-Off.

This annual competition invites students in grades 6鈥�12 to showcase their creativity, technique, and passion for cooking. Entries came in from across the country and were evaluated on preparation, cooking process, presentation, storytelling, and how well students met the entry criteria.

Meet the 萌妹社 Finalist

Alexander, 9th Grade

One of just five finalists nationwide, Alexander earned his spot in the national spotlight with his dish, XL鈥檚 Italian Style Pizza, which highlights both skill and passion.

鈥淭he reason I chose to enter the contest is my passion for cooking and baking. My family and I travel, and when we do, we learn about cuisines and food. The reason I chose to make this dish is to put my passion on a plate. I love pizza 鈥� it鈥檚 versatile and a great dish. Also, because I learned the dough recipe in Italy from a chef there, it brings Italy to you as you taste it.鈥�

Alexander鈥檚 dish reflects not just talent, but curiosity and a love of learning 鈥� qualities we鈥檙e proud to see in our 萌妹社 students.

The Final Showdown

Alexander has earned a fully paid trip to compete in the live, in-person cooking competition on June 5, 2026, at the Kitchen of Purpose in Arlington, Virginia. There, he鈥檒l go head-to-head for the $1,000 grand prize and a $250 People鈥檚 Choice award. It鈥檚 a big moment 鈥� and an exciting chance to represent 萌妹社 on a national stage.

During the final competition, finalists will face two fast-paced rounds designed to test both creativity and skill under pressure. In the Entr茅e Round, students will have one hour to prepare and present a complete dish. Then, in the Dessert Round, they鈥檒l have just 30 minutes to create a sweet finish.

To make things even more exciting, competitors will draw ingredient cards at the start of each round, challenging them to think on their feet and incorporate surprise ingredients into their dishes.

How Your Family Can Be Part of the Fun

This competition celebrates creativity, confidence, and community 鈥� and your family can join in:

• Follow event updates on Instagram at
• Cast your vote for the People鈥檚 Choice winner July 6鈥�17, 2026 鈥� anyone can vote once per day by visiting the
• Share the excitement with your student
• Check back on July 31 for the winner reveal and a full competition recap video on the

Cooking Up Confidence at Home

We鈥檙e incredibly proud of Alexander and all he鈥檚 accomplished. Being named one of the top five student chefs in the country is no small feat, and his journey is a great reminder of what students can achieve when they combine creativity with effort.

And the inspiration doesn鈥檛 have to stop with the competition.

If this story has your student thinking about stepping into the kitchen, now is a great time to encourage it. Cooking builds independence, strengthens problem-solving skills, and gives kids a hands-on way to express themselves.

Whether your student dreams of competing one day or simply wants to help with dinner, a little encouragement can go a long way in helping them grow their confidence 鈥� one recipe at a time.

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