Lee Allen McDermott ’64 has always felt a deep connection to Harley. She vividly remembers her first day of school, standing at the bottom of the barn steps, thinking, “Here we go!” That moment marked the beginning of a lifelong love with the school that would shape her personal and professional journey.
After graduating, Lee pursued her passion for learning, earning an undergraduate degree and then a master’s in teaching from the University of Pennsylvania, focusing on biology and French—though fate had a surprise in store, and she would become a beloved math teacher.
Her path back to Harley began with a connection to Ruth Ewell P ’66, ’70, who had been Headmaster’s Secretary, Registrar, and later part of the College Counseling Office. Ruth had promised to “keep her in mind” for any openings, and on the very first day of school in 1973, that promise became reality: Lee was asked to teach 5th and 6th grade science and math. She worked alongside Robin Mayshark Long (Math and Science, 1987-2012), eventually making a deal so Lee could focus on math while Robin taught science. Over the years, Lee also taught health and spelling, coached basketball, and cherished her time as a swim coach with Lorie Rick (Physical Education, 1999-2025).
Returning to Harley as a teacher felt like coming home. Many of her former teachers were still there, including Frank Laimbeer P ’77, ’79, ’84 (Math, 1960-81), Bud Ewell P ’66, ’70, Math and Science, 1952-59, Head of Lower School, 1959-63, Middle School, 1964-82, Woodworking, 1982-93, and Steve Hinrichs P ’66,’67, ‘68 (Headmaster 1963-77). She loved the kids, the homeroom experience, and the interactions that allowed her to impart knowledge, hear their thoughts, and feel genuinely valued. Lee treasures the spirit of Harley, where people genuinely care for one another.
Though Lee is often associated with math, she is also a gifted writer. One of her poems captures her journey from a student to a teacher:
The Dance
The dance began when my child’s eyes
First saw the school with awed surprise
The start of a lifelong love for a place
That distance and time will never erase
That child, now a woman grown
Had a job at that school to call her own
The dance continues as does my career
I treasure it fondly, year after year
The children, present, future and past
Make memories that will ever last
Soon enough, with a smile and a sigh
I will be ready to say good-bye
But as grains of sand are part of the sea
Harley will forever be a part of me
Her favorite math projects—Pi Day and the Million Dollar Project—showcase her creativity and love for hands-on learning. Students are challenged to think outside the box, combine rigor with fun, and strive for excellence.
Inspired by Leonard Opdycke, her Upper School English teacher, Lee channels her passion for writing alongside her love of teaching math. In another poem, she describes her classroom as a sanctuary:
The Key
Why is what I ask myself
Maybe it is the teacher in me
Still striving for the kindest tone
For the most engaging lesson
For the funniest delivery
When I wake to the promise of a new day
I go to work
But it is not a job, it is what I do
It is what I love
Always excited for new possibilities
I turn the key to my classroom and the magic begins
This is where I teach adolescents about math and about life
There is humor, patience and love within these walls
I embrace this space, my sanctuary
My safe place through celebrations, heartaches, laughter and happy memories
My home for decades
I love my life here
I love my school, my colleagues and my students
What will happen when I have to give back my key?
Who will I be?
Her advice to anyone new to Harley reflects her humility and wisdom: “Don’t try to do everything all at once. Get help from whoever offers. It’s important to be vulnerable.” She also reminds everyone to keep that sense of humor!
Lee Allen McDermott’s story is one of loyalty, passion, and a profound belief in the power of education. From student to teacher, her life has been intertwined with Harley, leaving an indelible mark on generations of students and colleagues.
