For more than two decades, Deb Jager has helped make Bentheim Elementary feel like home — not only for herself, but for generations of Hamilton students and staff.

Jager, a longtime member of the Hamilton Community Schools Food Service team since September 21, 2000, was recently recognized by the Michigan Department of Education and Michigan School Nutrition Association with a Certificate of Appreciation honoring 25 years of service to the district.

“I was surprised. I wasn’t expecting anything at all,” Jager said of the recognition.

Now entering her 27th year with Hamilton Community Schools, Jager has spent her career serving students at Bentheim Elementary, a place she proudly calls her “second home.”

“I like the community. I like the teachers, the staff,” Jager said. “Altogether, we’re like one big family.”

For Jager, working in food service has always been about much more than serving breakfast and lunch. It’s the relationships she has built with students over the years — greeting them each day, getting to know them and, as she puts it, teasing them “once in a great while” — that have made the job so special.

“I really enjoy the role. I enjoy the kids,” she said. “Just to get to know them and say hi and give them food for breakfast and food for lunch.”

Hamilton Community Schools Food Service Director John Arlt added, "For 26 years, Deb has dedicated herself to serving the students and staff of Hamilton Community Schools with hard work, care, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her years of service have made a lasting impact on countless students, coworkers, families, and her dedication is truly appreciated. Thank you, Deb, for 26 incredible years of service, for everything you have done, and for the positive difference you continue to make every day!"

Congratulations, Deb, and thank you for more than 25 years of dedication to Hamilton Community Schools!