Editor:

In light of the recent loss of A.C. Jones faculty member Ann Gartner, I would like to say a few words of remembrance.

Ann was a physics teacher, engineer, member of the handbell choir, and a dear colleague. Ann cared about her parents, students, colleagues and community. She cared about UIL, Academic Decathlon, science and fine arts. She was the reason why Academic Decathlon lasted one extra year. She encouraged me, as a new speech teacher, to join as a UIL speech coach.

She spent her time tutoring students to pass the TAKS test before school, during her advisory period, and sometimes after school. She gave good advice and encouragement to me. When I resigned, she encouraged me to stay in education, a promise that I will not forget.

I wish I could have one more conversation with Ann. I would like to tell her thank you for being a friend. What she has accomplished for her community is beyond the city limits of Beeville. Her knowledge of science lives on with her students at A.C. Jones and those now at their respective universities. I am sure that I could speak for all in saying, “Thank you, Ms. Gartner.”

What words can be said to say enough of an individual who unselfishly devoted her life to education? She followed in the footsteps of her parents who are retired members of the A.C. Jones faculty. Ann leaves behind a larger family in faculty members at this time. She will be missed dearly by her fellow science teachers and current students. The science wing has one less scientist. She will be missed by all.

Ann was genuine. There was no false pretense; she was herself everyday — a genuine teacher. If she has one last lesson to teach it is to treat each day as the gift that it is, every opportunity as your potential future, and not to take anyone who is there to help you for granted. Her students of fall 2008 may have had their last lesson but we will all continue to benefit from the lessons she left behind. I am so happy to have known Ann and I have benefited greatly because she was here.

Sincerely,

Stephanie Valderrama