You might have noticed the banner in the lunch area recently that says “HAPPY RETIREMENT” “The legend has retired.” That is for our food services worker Pamala Stratton, who is retiring from South after 12 years.  

More than just the banner, in the kitchen area, some students had written notes to Stratton and displayed them up on a big pad of paper. She had pointed to it saying, “I mean, that’s what they’ve done for me!” 

In total, she has been in food services for 29 years. 

“I’ve worked at the Freshman Center, and I’ve worked at Brittany Hill and Lucy Franklin,” says Stratton. 

 She entered food services because she wanted to be with her daughter. 

“She [her daughter] was in kindergarten and I just needed a job,” says Stratton, “And I could be home with her.” 

What she enjoys the most is the students and just South in general. 

“I love the high school kids. I love the crew. I love everything about it. I really do. I love the high school. This is where I wanted to retire from,” says Stratton. 

Stratton has decided to retire now because it lines up with her husband’s retirement. 

“It was just time. My husband’s retiring also, so we decided to retire together,” says Stratton. 

Despite the perfect time, Stratton feels sad to leave. 

“[I feel] terrible,” Stratton says, “I’ve been happy, but I’m also sad. I mean, I enjoy it, I love working with these goofballs, doing this all week. They love me, but I love them too.” 

Her relationships have been the highlight of working here. 

“I love the relationships with the kids. I’ve gotten close to so many of them. And the other day, I was really emotional about it. It means a lot to me,” says Stratton. 

Stratton’s advice is to enjoy where you are and to maintain good relationships. 

“Just make sure you enjoy yourself and enjoy who you work with always. Make sure you have a good relationship with the custodians and the kids and staff. It makes it a lot easier and a lot funner to be here,” she says