Harriet McNamara, retired Northport High School math teacher, passed away on September 6. She was R-UTN member, as well as the mother of school counselor Jenny Konop and mother-in-law of math teacher, Alex Konop.

In addition to her daughter Jenny and her husband Alex, Harriet is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Terry; her son Michael and his wife Kristi; and her youngest daughter, Meghan, and her husband Rob. She was grandmother to Clover, Mackenzie, and Molly. She also leaves behind her brothers Keith, Tom, John and her sister Karen.

As a mother and grandmother of three, Harriet showed up for every game, concert, or school event—always cheering, encouraging, and making her presence known. In retirement she volunteered countless hours at the Vanderbilt Museum with other retired Northport teachers, and with the Henry L. Ferguson Museum, battling invasive plants and knotweed alongside Terry and the Trail Dogs, the Museum’s conservation youth corps. She loved biking, kayaking, traveling, and playing round after round of golf with Terry.

Harriet will be waked at Nolan’s Funeral Home on Monday, September 15, from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m.
R-UTN members who have memories of Harriet they wish to share, can email retirednorthportteachers@gmail.com. Please write Website Memories as the subject, and include your name and former school.

On Wednesday, August 27th, friends and family of the late Danielle DePonte gathered in the courtyard outside of the World Language Department at Northport High School to honor and remember Danielle for her outstanding accomplishments, dedication and true passion as an educator, union activitist, mentor and friend.

Current and former teachers and administrators from both Northport High School and East Northport Middle School joined Danielle’s three children, Will, Paul and Noelle as a hand-crafted bench was unveiled. This beautiful, lasting memorial was made by students from Technology teacher, Greg Robinson’s Woodworking program, and under his guidance.

As many people spoke about Danielle, offering personal stories, memories and anecdotes, a common thread emerged. Danielle was loved by all. She was fierce, yet kind; strong, yet nurturing; tough, yet caring.  One speaker perfectly captured Danielle by calling her a “Mama Bear.”  She would always look out for those about whom she cared with love and kindness, but if she ever needed to go on the attack, don’t get in her way!

Danielle was also remembered by a phrase she often used, “We are the engine that runs this train.”  So many of her colleagues have repeated that line over the years and lovingly assumed it as a mindset. 

Not only have the lives of hundreds,if not thousands, of students been touched by Danielle, but so have those of her colleagues whom she mentored over the years.  She will forever by loved and remembered.

Photos from the dedication ceremony can be viewed in our Photo Gallery.