Carolee Mallard spent 30 years at Palmetto as a guidance counselor, head of the guidance department and as sponsor of the National Honor Society. Each day was a new challenge that excited Mallard more than the next. 

“I never knew what each day would bring,” Mallard said. 

Whether she was helping a student or faculty member through a crisis, aiding students with college applications or writing recommendation letters, Mallard always prepared for the task at hand and faced it head-on with excitement. The 30 years Mallard spent at Palmetto allowed her to form strong bonds.

“We went through births, deaths, marriages and divorces together,” Mallard said. “These people were my second family.” 

Mallard’s immediate family grew up to become Panthers as well. Both of her children graduated from Palmetto. Mallard’s daughter, Lisa Mallard, decided to follow in her mother’s footsteps and currently serves as both a guidance counselor and National Honor Society sponsor at the school. To Mallard, saying goodbye to Palmetto was like leaving behind her family.

“In 30 years, I never once thought about leaving. How are you supposed to leave your family?” Mallard said.

 She helped multiple individuals better themselves and coached students on the steps necessary for getting into college. Mallard made a lasting impact on both the school and changed the lives of many. Since retiring, Mallard has gradually adjusted to not working at Palmetto anymore.

 “I’ve learned that there are good TV shows on after 9 p.m., and I’ve also retrained my body to sleep in past 5 a.m.,” Mallard said. 

Mallard truly enjoyed her time at Palmetto.

“It has been stated that if you love your job, you will never work a day in your life. And I loved my job,”  Mallard said. “Once a Panther always a Panther.”