Earlier this year, we shared the news that two beloved members of the Harley community—Nursery teacher Kim Bednarcyk P ’16 and Middle School math teacher Lee Sherwood Allen McDermott ’64—would be retiring. A few weeks ago, the Head of School formally announced this year’s full list of retirees. Below are the individuals we will be celebrating and thanking for their many years of dedication to Harley.

If you have a memory or message that you’d like to share about any of these wonderful educators, please send an email to ksaludo@harleyschool.org. Include pictures if you can!

Kim Bednarcyk P ’16

It must have been clear to Headmaster Dexter Lewis (Headmaster, 1977-82) back in 1981 that hiring Kim Bednarcyk was a wise move. Originally joining the Harley community as a playground supervisor, it quickly became apparent that Kim was a valuable educator who was assigned to teach in the 3-year old program in 1984. Since that time, “Miss B.” has impacted generations of children and their families in Nursery Red with her genuine enthusiasm, practical communication, and joyful curiosity. There is no question her advocacy for play and child development has shaped the Harley nursery program over the past 44 years into the vibrant and child-honoring learning environment we know and prize today. It is nearly impossible to imagine Nursery Red without Miss B., but true to her generous nature and deep commitment to Harley, Kim is already making things ready for the hand off as she retires. We will miss Kim’s spirit, love of traditions, ingenuity, and creativity. Her lasting influence will be felt well into the future. Congratulations to Kim on a legendary career!

Mary Pat Cleary

Mary Pat Cleary is one of the best examples of someone making the most of her job and continuing to expand her role in order to make Harley a better school and community. Joining Harley in the fall of 2020, right along with all of the complications of in-person schooling during a pandemic, Mary Pat capably and gracefully worked to support the wellbeing of students, families, and employees. She was instrumental in continuing the work and training of the Trauma, Illness, and Grief team, as well as bringing the CASEL framework to school-wide attention for alignment. Mary Pat’s wholesome and optimistic approach makes her an effective coach for community members as they grow skills in order to solve problems and change mindsets. Her impact has been felt across all divisions. One of her most endearing and reliable qualities is her ability to remain calm in any situation, helping others reflect, and giving them strong advice and clear options for next steps. She has made a lasting mark on the counseling team and wellness committee. We wish her well as she leaves Harley to pursue the next chapter in her professional career!

Lee Sherwood Allen McDermott ’64

Teaching since September 1, 1973

52 Years, 5 Months, 25 days

Harley student, Class of ’64.

How many students have been inspired to learn mathematics in Middle School since September 1, 1973? How many teachers and administrators have collaborated with, learned from, and partnered alongside a passionate, caring, and outgoing colleague who began teaching that year? How many parents have received phone calls sharing achievements, joyful moments, short stories, missed homework, or a thoughtful check-in since September 1, 1973? Just imagine how many lives have been impacted by Lee Allen.

Lee is retiring this year after 53 years of extraordinary service, care, and dedication to the Harley community. In the months ahead, we look forward to sharing more of Lee’s story and inviting you to share the ways she has impacted your life as we head toward the end of the school year. Harley is remarkably fortunate to have had such a warm-hearted, talented educator and partner to students and colleagues—someone who has shaped the school for nearly 70 percent of its history (including her own time as a Harley student!).

Patti Northrup

Patti Northrup has been a passionate and dedicated educator at Harley for 18 years. During this time, she has inspired students and supported colleagues in countless ways—most notably through her work in Middle School and Upper School health, serving as Chair of the Wellness Committee, TIG team member, Middle School advisor, and through the teaching of a wide range of electives. While Patti has worn many hats and shaped programming across the school, what stands out most is her deep caring for students, her reflective practice, and her unwavering commitment to the Harley community. Patti has made a lasting and meaningful impact on students, colleagues, parents, and the overall wellbeing of our school.

Pat Malone P ’20

Dr. Patricia Malone has been a pillar of the Harley Upper School faculty for the past 17 years. Throughout these years, she has been an inspiration to countless students and faculty with her love of English literature, writing, poetry and deep thinking. As an Upper School English teacher, former English Department Chair, faculty leader and student advisor, Patricia has introduced the students and her colleagues alike to a wide range of learning opportunities. Dr. Malone used her experience from earning a Ph.D in English Literature from Harvard University in shaping her students’ experience and developing the Harley Upper School English curriculum. Her intellectual curiosity and desire for excellence shaped her role as a leader among the faculty. Dr. Malone was instrumental in bringing programs to the Harley faculty like critical friends group protocol and a driving force in early conversations about the use of A.I in education which encouraged faculty and students alike to critically examine and apply new academic technology tools. Patricia is the parent of Harley alum Tess Begley ‘20. She has been an enthusiastic champion of the Harley school and an intellectual leader and influencer among both students and colleagues; we are lucky and grateful for Patricia’s years of service at the Harley School.