Mr. B- Executive Director/Principal
Ms. Walker- Assistant Principal
Ms. Gordon- Executive Assistant
Palmetto School Staff
2026-2027
Mrs. Starnes-PreSchool
My name is Elizabeth Starnes and I am a Rock Hill native and went to public schools here: Richmond Drive, Ebenezer Ave., Sullivan, and Northwestern. After high school, I attended the College of Charleston where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and then my Masters of Education in Early Childhood. We returned to Rock Hill to raise our 3 children who are amazing adults now. I have taught in Charleston and Rock Hill Schools for 13 years. I am happily married and have a blended family with 7 grown children, 5 grandchildren, and 1 very spoiled chocolate lab named Bella. I love gardening, cooking, traveling, learning new things, bird watching in my backyard, and Folly Beach is my favorite place. I am happiest wherever I am with my husband and family! I love teaching preschool at The Palmetto School!
Ms. Torok- Kindergarten
Hi! I’m Tess Torok and I’m excited to teach kindergarten at The Palmetto School this year. I’ve previously taught first grade, and K-2 reading and math intervention. I have three awesome cats and I love hiking and reading. I look forward to teaching your children this year!
Ms. McFadden- 1st Grade
Mr. Haynes- 2nd-3rd Grades
Hello my name is Ken Haynes, and I am teaching second and third grades this year. I graduated with a B.A. in Elementary Education at UNC Charlotte. I have just moved to Rock Hill from Winston Salem, North Carolina. When I’m not teaching, I love reading, arts and crafts, and making music.
I cannot wait for a wonderful year!
Mrs. Cherry- 4th-5th Grades
Hello everyone! I will be joining The Palemetto School as the new 4th/5th grade teacher. I am coming from York County Schools and I have completed my student teaching in a 3rd grade classroom. My previous experiences include serving as a paraprofessional, 1:1 aide, teacher’s assistant, and computer tech teacher before cementing my desire to become a teacher. I also have a history in behavior support and I am trained in ABA techniques. I am excited to join The Palmetto School team.
Ms. Comer- Middle School ELA/Social Studies
Mrs. Hovde- Middle School Math/Science
Ms. George- Execptional Students/Interventionist
My name is Karen George. I graduated from The University of Central Florida in 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in exceptional child education. Then, in 2000, I earned my master’s degree in educational leadership from Winthrop University. I taught in Florida for 7 years before moving to Rock Hill. I taught in Rock Hill for 3 years before having my children. I gave up teaching for 11 years to stay home with my children.
Ms. Quillen- Bookkeeper
Feel free to edit it if needed
Hi, I’m Debbie Quillen! Originally from the great state of Ohio (O-H!), I’ve called Fort Mill home for the past 23 years.
I’m an avid football fan, a proud Rick Springfield groupie, and a lover of all things ’80s. In my free time, you’ll usually find me traveling—whether it’s on a cruise, at a live music event, or exploring somewhere new. I also love being outdoors, especially if it involves the water. Paddleboarding is one of my favorite hobbies, and I enjoy swimming in waterfalls, hiking, and soaking up nature whenever I can.
I enjoy working out… although you might not be able to tell because I also love to eat! Life is all about balance, right?
I’m the proud mom of two grown sons, and over the years I’ve also raised several of their friends. I have a special place in my heart for young people, especially those who need a little extra love and support.
I’m excited to bring my bookkeeping skills to The Palmetto School and be part of a team that’s making a difference in the lives of students every day.
Ms. Galeota- Art
Hello everyone! My name is Addison Galeota, and I will be your child’s art teacher during the Palmetto School’s 2026-2027 school year! This is my first year teaching, and I am elated to have the opportunity to help foster your child’s creativity and self expression! I graduated in 2024 with a degree in graphic design from York Technical College, and I have had a passion for the arts all my life. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy painting, hiking, and volunteering at a local cat adoption center. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have at any point. I’m excited to meet your child and make it a fun and rewarding school year!
Ms. Graham- P.E./Character Education
Hello! My name is Micah Graham. I am originally from Chester, South Carolina, and earned my Bachelor’s degree from The Citadel, where I competed in track and cross country. After graduation, I joined the United States Air Force, where I had the opportunity to continue my athletic career by playing competitive basketball, and later obtained my Master’s degree from Liberty University while serving on active duty.
Health, fitness, and sports have been a major part of my life, and I am passionate about helping students develop healthy habits, confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation for physical activity. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, exploring new places, running, and spending time with my children. I am excited to be a part of The Palmetto School and look forward to a great school year!
Annie Brice- Custodian
