Commonly Asked Questions

General Program Questions

What is MUNCH – A Teaching Kitchen?
MUNCH is a hands-on culinary education program that helps students ages 5–18 build confidence, independence, leadership, and real-world life skills through structured cooking instruction.

Who can enroll?
We serve students ages 5–18. Placement is based on age, maturity, skill level, and program fit.

Do students need cooking experience?
No. We offer beginner, intermediate, and advanced programs so students can start at the appropriate level.

How are students placed in classes?
Families complete an intake process so we can recommend the best class based on age, readiness, goals, and availability.

Do you offer homeschool or virtual learner daytime classes?
Yes. We offer daytime options that work well for homeschool and virtual learning families.

Tuition & Payments

When are payments due?
All monthly tuition payments are due by the 1st of each month to reserve your child’s seat.

Do you accept Step Up For Students scholarships?
Yes, approved scholarship payments may be used when eligible and authorized.

What if Step Up payment is delayed or denied?
Families remain financially responsible for tuition. A valid backup payment method is required. If payment is not received by the due date, the student may not attend until the balance is resolved.

Can I reserve a seat without payment?
No. Enrollment is only confirmed once payment or approved scholarship funding has been secured.

Do you offer refunds?
Tuition and fees are generally non-refundable once a seat has been reserved and staffing/materials have been committed. Exceptions may be reviewed case by case.

Attendance & Scheduling

What happens if my child misses class?
Missed classes do not guarantee make-up sessions. Limited make-up opportunities may be offered based on availability.

Can my child attend a drop-in class first?
Yes, single-session drop-in options may be available based on open seats.

Can I switch class days or times?
Transfers depend on availability and must be approved in advance.

Parent & Safety Policies

Can parents stay during class?
No. Parents/guardians are not permitted inside the culinary kitchen during instructional sessions unless specifically invited for a scheduled event or accommodation.

When can I drop off and pick up my child?
Students may arrive no more than 5 minutes before class and should be picked up within 5 minutes after class ends.

What if my child has behavior or safety concerns?
Students must follow directions and safety expectations at all times. Repeated unsafe behavior may result in removal from class or dismissal from the program.

Do you accommodate allergies?
Please contact us before enrollment regarding food allergies or dietary restrictions. MUNCH is not an allergen-free facility.

Supplies & Uniforms

Is there a materials or uniform fee?
Yes. Some programs require a one-time materials fee that may include apron, lesson resources, and kitchen tool use.

What should students wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required. Hair should be secured back. Additional dress expectations will be provided after enrollment.

Getting Started

How do I enroll?
Submit an inquiry or enrollment request through our website. We’ll contact you regarding placement, availability, and next steps.

How do I know which program is right for my child?
We’ll help guide you through the placement process and recommend the best fit based on age, goals, and readiness.