It is difficult to express with words the energetic, dynamic, focused and enthusiastic spirit of Aaron Barnett. I worked alongside Aaron for roughly 20 years and I have always admired his love for technology, innovation and education. He poured himself into his work here at Moreno Valley Unified School District (MVUSD) always seeking to keep the District on the leading edge of technology. I marveled at the network of technology professionals that he knew by name, shared thoughts and ideas with, and influenced in one way or another. Aaron truly made a positive impact on people wherever he went!
Aaron brought MVUSD from an environment of a small, limited network of PCs and Macs to a state-of-the-art high-speed enterprise class network providing high-density wireless access to thousands of staff and student devices. He grew the technology team from 9 staff members to 27 members, creating an amazing team of technicians, office staff and technical managers. Aaron also led the charge to implement a 21st century modular data center solution that continues to be showcased to districts throughout California.
As a mentor, Aaron never stopped encouraging all of us to be lifelong learners. He was always leading by example as he navigated multiple certifications, milestones, and even received awards for his contribution to educational technology. He always encouraged his team members to grow professionally and seek out career avenues that would offer them greater opportunities whether that be within his team or with other agencies. He invested in students with the objective of nurturing their interest in technology and fanning into flames a love for seeking technology-based career pathways.
As a friend, Aaron was a man of integrity and transparency. He had a special way of connecting with your own interests, clarifying them, and helping you to focus and develop them. He was genuinely interested in getting to know each one of us beyond the typical boss-employee relationship and understanding each one of us as an individual with value. I consider myself to be blessed to call Aaron my friend, and I am honored to help keep his legacy alive!
