If you’ve ever passed through the lunch line at Centaurus High School, you’ve most definitely been greeted with a radiant smile and an even warmer spirit: that’s Ms. Jen. For 16 years, she’s been much more than the person serving up meals. She’s been a cheerleader, confidante, and a joyful constant in the lives of students from kindergarten through high school. As she prepares to step away from her role at the end of this school year, we pause to celebrate her and all that she has meant to our school.
Originally from San Diego, Ms. Jen made her way to Colorado years ago with her family, and while the journey wasn’t always easy, she found a new home and purpose here. “If I can’t be in California, I’m glad I’m here,” she shared. It was here that her youngest son, now an alum of our school, started attending Centaurus. Ms. Jen soon found herself drawn to working at the school to stay close to him. That temporary decision turned into a 16-year career filled with memories and love.
Over the years, Ms. Jen has worked across every grade level, but high schoolers hold a special place in her heart. “Probably because I get to go to prom and homecoming and see you all dressed up,” she laughed. Her genuine connection with students is something that sets her far apart. “I feel like I get to know things that others don’t because you all trust me,” she said. “I’ve always let you know that I’m progressive, that I’ll respect your pronouns, your identities, and that I care;” A sentiment that is felt deep in the hearts of all who have been blessed enough to know her.
Whether she’s handing out fruit with a gentle reminder or simply offering a smile in the hallway, Ms. Jen has created a space of warmth and acceptance for every student she meets. Her joyful presence isn’t just infectious, it’s healing.
From a personal standpoint, Ms. Jen represents the kind of person who not only sees us but knows us. Despite a somewhat unfortunate set of IB induced scheduling circumstances that left me with (along with many other IB students) no lunch period, Ms. Jen still managed to learn my name and claim my heart from seemingly the first moment we met. I have been lucky enough to be the recipient of many a loving hug and always a sweet hello.
As she looks ahead, Ms. Jen plans to take her extraordinary customer service skills and vibrant personality to a remote phone service job. “I want to sit down a little more, take care of my body, and still have energy for the fun things when I eventually retire,” she explained. It’s a well-deserved next chapter, one that promises rest, pajamas, and plenty of laughter.
But this isn’t a final goodbye. Ms. Jen will still be around; chaperoning, celebrating, and cheering students on at future graduations. “Of course I’m coming to your graduation,” she said with a smile. “You guys are fabulous.”
Ms. Jen, you’ve given this community so much more than food. You’ve offered kindness, comfort, and unwavering support. Thank you for being the bright light in our days. We’ll miss you dearly, but we know your sparkle isn’t going anywhere.
