Methacton means so much to Betsy Dru (Long) Tecco. It’s more than just the place where she grew up, beginning in first grade at Worcester Elementary. Betsy says her time at Methacton High School ignited her passion for writing and it led to a successful career that spanned four decades.

“Richard Bergey, my high school English teacher, influenced me the most because I always wanted to be a writer and his class gave me opportunities to do creative writing. He printed a booklet of our poems and essays that I still have!” Betsy says she believes Mr. Bergey had to be the person behind the nomination that led to a writing award she won in her senior year.

Reflecting on her high school days, Betsy fondly remembers several activities that enhanced her academic journey. “I loved performing in the musical Irene as well as a few comical plays directed by Mr. Brown, the theater arts teacher. I also enjoyed planning special events as part of Class Congress, including homecoming, proms, senior banquet, and fundraisers. Our class sponsor, Phyllis Lacek, gave us tons of support and made it fun to meet in her Home Economics classroom.”

Amazingly enough, Betsy also found time to play field hockey and lacrosse, work on the Jabberwocky newspaper staff, participate in Ski Club, and serve on Student Council. Having these kinds of opportunities at school gave Betsy a profound appreciation for the world around her. She implores current students to take advantage of the various extra-curricular activities available. “Get involved for the fun and the experiences - THAT'S what you will remember most, long after you graduate.”

After graduation, Betsy attended Penn State and majored in English Writing. From there, she had a very successful career as a professional writer. “I was a professional writer for 40 years, working for advertising agencies as well as independently as a freelancer. I wrote promotional copy for many industries including healthcare and hospitality, countless articles for regional and national magazines, short stories for an ESL textbook, and 13 nonfiction books for Rosen Publishing Group, a school and library publisher.”

Now retired professionally, Betsy strongly supports the continued success of Methacton. In the spirit of paying it forward, she currently serves on the board of the Methacton Education Foundation, a nonprofit focused on empowering students and staff through innovative programs. “Volunteering allows me to give back to my alma mater.”

Beyond her professional achievements, Betsy finds tremendous joy in her family life. She and her husband Armand have been married for 40 years and are the proud parents of two daughters, Sianna and Elise.