PAM KLINK
Center of Applied Technology North
Anne Arundel County Public Schools
Pam Klink, a dedicated culinary arts instructor at the Center of Applied Technology South (CAT South) in Anne Arundel County Public Schools, has been named the Region 1 Teacher of the Year. With 12 years of experience as a full-time culinary arts instructor, Klink has transformed her classroom into an innovative, career-driven environment where students master technical skills while embracing creativity, sustainability, and cultural literacy.
Klink’s impact extends far beyond the kitchen. She developed and implemented the Honors Culinary Arts program at CAT South, which has earned Exemplary status from the American Culinary Federation. Her curriculum integrates real-world applications, from culinary mathematics and food science to restaurant management and sustainability. As Chair of the Green School Committee, Klink has spearheaded initiatives like recycling used cooking oil and installing rain barrels, reinforcing her commitment to environmental stewardship.
Her teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in creating an inclusive and engaging space where students gain hands-on experience and critical thinking skills. Whether mentoring new educators, leading professional development workshops, or organizing community cooking nights for multilingual families, Klink continuously finds ways to connect her students with the broader world. One of her most rewarding initiatives she has developed is Family Cooking Night, which invites English language learner students and their families to participate in a shared cooking experience.
“I want my students to leave with more than just technical skills,” Klink shared. “I want them to be self-motivated, adaptable, and globally aware—ready to contribute to society in meaningful ways.”
With her unwavering dedication to student success and the future of the culinary arts, Pam Klink exemplifies what it means to be a transformative educator.
Raise the level of performance consistent throughout school districts nationwide and creates a platform from which all magnet schools can flourish. Magnet Schools of America’s national certification process is designed to recognize the hard work of the best magnet schools in the nation and to help them as they grow.
