Mary Ann (Vincent) Barnett

My sister and I were both students in Mary Ann's Gifted and Talented program in Dillingham, Alaska. She left a lasting impact on our lives, for me I can say that her classes were the only time I felt a positive connection to school in my years in an area where education offerings were few. Mary Ann challenged us to solve problems and think creatively. She expanded the options of what I could have imagined for myself. I am grateful.

Mary Ann did not tout her abilities, but when she did, she was extraordinary! Her dry wit and slow delivery would slay me. We co-founded the first student writers´ workshops in South western Alaska and were fast friends. I admired her more than any other teaching colleague I had in my 30 years in education. She was a gem and a brilliant one at that! I hope she knew how much I loved her. June Gibson Cherry