Pearl River Central High School is preparing to host a culinary competition for its students early next year.

The competition will be a friendly cook off between high school students and aims to enhance student interest and hone their talents in cooking.

Students vying for the title of champion of the competition will have to clear three rounds.

In the preliminary round, each student will have to cook an appetizer, entrée or dessert of the judge’s choice. For the second round, a main dish of the student’s choice has to be presented and the finale would be another of the judge’s choice.

“The goal of the Food Services Department in hosting this competition is to make connections with the student outside the school lunchroom because we feel we are a vital part of their educational process,” Sheila Amacker, food service administrator for the Pearl River County School District, said.

During the competition, the students will receive assistance from cafeteria workers who will supervise the children while they cook and handle kitchen equipment.

The winner of the competition will take home a personalized apron, various gifts from local business owners and a personalized chopping board.

Dates for the competition have yet to be finalized by the school.