After Over Half Century, Guidance Secretary Steps Down

By Casey Dyer

After 53 years of service, Mary Kessler has retired as the Guidance Office Secretary.

Kessler’s story has become somewhat legendary at PAHS. Kessler said, “As a senior I worked in the High School Office during study hall.  I applied and was hired as Secretary for the district-run cafeteria.  The day after graduation, June 11, 1973, I walked into the school district office.  At the end of the summer, plans changed completely.”

She didn’t stay in that position for long. After a position opened up as Guidance Office Secretary at the high school, she quickly accepted. The rest is history.

Over the course of her 53 years, she’s made many memories. Kessler said, “A few favorite memories include a surprise card shower organized by the Character Education students in recognition of my 50 years of service, and, many years ago, being named one of the Educators of the Year.  The most recent memory is one I'll never forget: the snake in the ceiling light panel directly above my desk.”

Of course, working through 50 years worth of change also brings lots of challenges. Kessler said, “The biggest challenges occurring through the years was keeping up with ever-changing technology.  Transitioning from the typewriter (though it still comes in handy at times) to the computer was a huge advancement.  Learning different student management systems from ESP to SMS and currently Qmlativ have been additional challenges.”

Kessler has made many relationships throughout her career, especially in the guidance office. Eric Sampson, guidance counselor, said, “She was here when I was a student and I, of course, got to know her very well once I started working. Throughout the 26 years I’ve known her, she’s been one of the kindest and most reliable people I have ever met.”