The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties — in partnership with the School District of Palm Beach County — hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony last week for the new Betty Harman Warner Montessori Model United Nations (MMUN) Reading & Emerging Leaders Center at S.D. Spady Elementary School in Delray Beach.
Betty’s children, including Will and Cheryl Harman of Delray Beach, established the center in her honor. Betty’s deep connection to S.D. Spady Elementary began in the late 1960s when she introduced her pioneering remedial reading program to the school—a program that positively impacted generations of students.
Speakers at the ceremony included Cheryl and Will Harman; Rona Tata, Principal, S.D. Spady Elementary; Michael J. Burke, Superintendent, School District of Palm Beach County; Edwin Ferguson, District 7 Board Member, School District of Palm Beach County; and Mary Katherine (MK) Morales, Vice President for Philanthropic Services, Community Foundation.
Betty was a devoted educator whose six-decade teaching career began after earning her degree from the College of William and Mary and a master’s from the University of Florida.
A pioneer in remedial reading programs, she helped establish initiatives in Brevard and Palm Beach counties, including at S.D. Spady Elementary School, where she inspired generations of students.
Even after losing her sight, Betty continued reading with the help of the Commission for the Blind, guided by her unwavering belief that everyone should know how to read. Her dedication to education shaped the lives of countless children and influenced her own family—four children, six grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—all of whom continue her legacy.
