When Mike Buck first walked onto Harley’s campus in June of 1992, he came as the “new guy” on the night shift—cleaning classrooms, emptying trash, and quietly learning the rhythms of a school that would become a defining part of his life.
Over the years, Mike moved to days and took on responsibility for the Field House, groundskeeping, and general maintenance. By 2018, his steady dedication and deep knowledge of the campus earned him the role of Head of Maintenance. In the span of his 30-plus years at Harley, he’s seen the school transform again and again—and he’s been part of every change.
He watched the Grade 3 and 4 classrooms be rebuilt, then the Lehman Art Center addition. He saw the Middle School academic center take shape, the science wing be reimagined, and the pool update. He was there when the Commons was built, when parts of the Field House were renovated, and when the Peckham Wellness Center opened its doors. He even recalls the day the Field House tennis courts were rebuilt—and yes, he’s the one who set up all the basketball hoops.
Through every phase, every construction project, every renovation, Mike has taken pride in the school’s growth. “I’ve seen it all,” he says with a quiet smile, “and I’m proud to have been here through all of it.”
When asked what keeps him motivated after so many years, his answer is simple and immediate: the kids. “Trying to keep everything good for the kids—and for the staff too—that’s what keeps me going.”
Among Harley traditions, his favorite is Elf Day. Watching students transform the dining hall with decorations, serve meals, and even handle cleanup with surprising skill never fails to make him smile. “They do a pretty good job,” he admits.
Mike also appreciates the camaraderie of the maintenance department, where hard work and humor go hand in hand. Once, there was the tug-of-war with gators utility vehicles out in the field—equal parts competition and comedy. And the time the team was caught by Gerald “Schifty” Schiffhauer (Maintenance 2000-2014), then Head of Maintenance, swimming in the pool when they definitely weren’t supposed to be. “We have fun,” he says with a laugh.
If he has any advice for someone new to Harley, he offers it straight: “It’s not a place you’re going to get rich at, but you’ll like it here.” And coming from someone who’s devoted more than three decades to the school, that means something.
Mike Buck’s story isn’t just about buildings and repairs—it’s about heart, community, and the steady presence of someone who cares deeply about the place and the people who fill it. Through every change, every challenge, and every joyful moment, Mike has helped keep Harley running—not just well, but wonderfully.
