GDC Team
Phone: (509) 447-2426 ext. 2592
Email: blanchetvickie@newportgriz.com
Degrees and Certifications:
Master's in Social Work
Vickie Blanchet: Program Director & Stratton Site Coordinator
My name is Vickie Blanchet and I am the Program Director for the Grizzly Discovery Center Program. I also serve as the Stratton Site Coordinator. I have been married to my wonderful husband, Curtis, for twenty-eight years. During that time, I have worn many hats: wife, mother, homeschool teacher, social worker, administrator, and foster parent ~ just to name a few. I have two sons, both of whom were a part of the Newport Learning & Enrichment Center. My youngest also took several classes through Newport High School. I have traveled all over the world with my wandering feet taking me to six of the seven continents. While I’m not a Newport native, I have lived here since 2008 and love the beauty of the area.
I have a dual background in Social Work and Education. Having a Master’s Degree in Social Work, I have worked with battered women, children-at-risk, and marginalized people groups. Additionally, I served as a foster parent for fourteen years, focusing on children impacted by drugs and alcohol. Sixteen years of my life were dedicated to homeschooling my two children from kindergarten through graduation as well as tutoring other children in math, science, history, and English.
In the six years that I have worked with the GDC, I have been inspired by my students to learn more, try more and do more. I hope to inspire them to do the same.
STRATTON STAFF![]()
Phone: (509) 589.0799
Email: heaneyduncan@newportgriz.com
Duncan Heaney: Stratton Site Coordinator
Hi! My name is Duncan Heaney. I grew up in the Newport School District since ‘99 where many great teachers and staff have made impactful impressions and I hope to do the same for our students. Outside of school I enjoy playing guitar for others, sitting down with a board game and friends, and exploring the vast Pacific Northwest. I’m looking forward to being able to be more supportive this year to our students, parents, and staff as we continue to bring opportunities to inspire student’s interests and talents.
Sara Daigneault: Paraeducator - 4th Grade
Hi, I’m Sara Daigneault, a passionate paraprofessional who works with first through fourth graders, blending my love for nature, STEM, and cultural education. With 6 years of experience in elementary education, I strive to create an engaging and supportive environment that encourages young students to explore and learn. My background in language revitalization and cultural education enriches my teaching approach, allowing me to incorporate diverse perspectives and language skills into the curriculum. I also integrate STEM activities and nature-based learning into my lessons, fostering curiosity and critical thinking through hands-on experiments and outdoor exploration. When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring new technologies. My goal is to inspire a love for learning and the natural world while supporting each child’s growth in both academic and cultural contexts. I look forward to meeting and getting to know each of you over the next few weeks!
Cindy Winterton: Paraeducator - 3/4 Split
Hello, I'm Cindy Winterton. Since retiring from the United States Air Force, I have worked as a substitute Para Pro/Front Office Secretary at Newport School District for three years. Then I started homeschooling my two daughters and working at Deer Park Homelink as a Specialist, teaching a variety of classes in grades K-12. I am excited to be back at Newport School District working at the Grizzly Discovery Center (GDC). I will be working with the Third-Fourth Grade Group.
Asher Kurp: Paraeducator - 3rd Grade
My name is Asher. I graduated from Newport High School this past June. For the last two years, I volunteered with the GDC and during the summer of 2023 I taught the first grade class. I love working with children and seeing them grow as they progress in the year. I will be working with the third grade students.
MJ Snow: Workforce - 2nd Grade
I'm Miss MJ. I just graduated from PORS in 2024. I started volunteering with the GDC in February of this year to get my volunteers hours to graduate and fell in love with the program. Now, through funding from Rural Resource's Workforce program, I am about to work as a staff member. I like to game, watch shows and musicals, do research about history, learn about different countries, and read from a variety of genres. This fall, I will be a full-time student at SCC, working on my AA so that in a couple of years I can go to EWU to become a school psychologist. I will be working with the second grade students.
Cynthia Byerley - Paraeducator - 1st Grade
My name is Cynthia Byerley and have been working in Education for several years teaching at Create Arts Center in Newport with art classes and the Summer Explorers Club, and Tutoring. I have a BA in education and have a passion for Children and what they can do when they are inspired and guided to succeed. I am looking forward to my stay at the Newport Grizzly Center. Education can be fun! “Children learn best by being educated gently while being entertained greatly.”
SHMS Staff
Phone: (206) 981.0466
Email: heaneyduncan@newportgriz.com
Constanza Rickey: SHMS Site Coordinator
I am Constanza Rickey, Site Coordinator for the SHMS Afterschool Program. I am happy to bring to our team my experience from Buenos Aires, Argentina, where I grew up and later tutored in Math, English, and Spanish, and from homeschooling my kids. I am passionate about teaching and working with kids. I have a very loving family, and I love making soap and spending time with family and friends in my free time.
Anna Watson: Paraeducator - Grades 5-8
My name is Anna Watson. I've been involved in the GDC for almost three years now. I love teaching students new and fun things within the program. When I'm not working, you can find me gardening, quilting, and spending time with my three grandchildren.