From the kitchen to the heart: How Tina Dean nourishes Benton Grade School.

In the bustling kitchen of Benton Grade School, Tina Dean, the Head Cook for pre-kindergarten through fourth grades, orchestrates a symphony of flavors and warmth.

For the past 15 years, Tina has been more than just a cook; she has been a cornerstone of the community, ensuring that every child not only receives a nutritious meal but also feels valued and loved.

“I cook. I make sure everybody’s allergies are met. I make sure everything is prepared properly, safe, and that it’s good food,” Tina says, summarizing her multifaceted role. Her dedication goes beyond the kitchen’s stainless steel counters. On snow days, when the school is closed, Tina often comes in to prepare meals for children who might otherwise go without. “They have the option to drive through. It’s either me or the other head cook, or sometimes Mary [Poole] does it.”

Tina’s commitment to the students is unwavering. Even when not required, she ensures that no child starts their day hungry. “We serve about 350 in the morning for breakfast,” she notes. For lunch, Tina and her team prepare meals for an impressive 468 students daily. Her actions speak volumes about her character and the genuine care she has for the children of Benton. As she’s going through her day, I find myself imagining how I’d ever keep up, if I were in her role. I conclude that it’s a good thing I’m a writer and not the person responsible for preparing nearly a thousand meals a day!

Originally from Centralia, Tina found her home and heart in Benton. She is proud of the community’s collaborative spirit and the strong school system that she believes rivals larger districts.

“We all kind of pull together and work as a team,” she says. This teamwork is not limited to her kitchen staff but extends to the entire school. “If Lindsey’s sick, we all call and ask if she needs something. If she doesn’t get something finished, someone else will help her out.”

Tina’s journey in Benton has also been deeply personal. Her two daughters, Jaden and Raven, went through the Benton school system. Now, Tina is on the brink of welcoming her first grandchild, a milestone that fills her with pride and joy. “I’m pretty proud of that first grandchild,” she beams.

Her dedication is a family trait. Her husband, a semidriver, supports the family from the road, while her daughters continue to build their lives around the strong foundation Tina helped lay. Jaden, soon to be a mother herself, and Raven, a photographer who enjoys the quiet life in Carmi, are testaments to Tina’s nurturing spirit.

When asked how she describes Benton to those unfamiliar with it, Tina highlights the close-knit community and the exceptional school system. “We have a great school system here. Not only have my daughters gone through the school system here, but other kids have become more successful than those from bigger schools,” she says with pride.

Tina’s pride extends beyond her family to the countless children she serves daily. She recounts touching moments when former students, now grown, approach her in town, thanking her for the meals and care they received. “I’ve gotten best friends through the school system,” she says, her voice filled with emotion. “They might have been in kindergarten or pre-K, but I couldn’t do life without them. That’s why I stay here. It’s got my heart.”

In the kitchen, the walls are adorned with thank you notes and pictures from students, a testament to the impact Tina has on their lives. “We decorate during the holidays, have superhero day for the cooks, and all those little things. It makes a difference in their day,” she explains. These efforts are more than just gestures; they are expressions of love and commitment.

Reflecting on her life and career, Tina shares a piece of wisdom she wishes she could tell her younger self: “You have five people carrying your casket, if you had those five people lifting you up in life every day, your world would be so much better.” This perspective, rooted in gratitude and community, defines Tina’s approach to life and work.

Tina Dean’s story is one of dedication, love, and the profound impact one person can have on a community. Through her unwavering commitment, she nourishes not only the bodies but also the spirits of Benton Grade School’s children, leaving a legacy of care and compassion that will be remembered for generations.