Two candidates interview for Shoreham seat on Addison Central School District board; executive session set to appoint

At its July 20 meeting, the Addison Central School District board heard introductions and answered questions from two candidates for the vacant Shoreham board seat and then moved into executive session to discuss and appoint a public officer.

Abigail Murphy introduced herself as a Shoreham resident, a 2006 graduate of the local high school, a parent of three, a foster parent and a nearby business owner. She described long involvement in Shoreham and district activities, including PTO/PTF and transportation and after‑school programs, and said she would bring community connections and commitment to the role.

Deborah Pinkerton described a career in education. In remarks to the board she said she holds a bachelor of science in secondary education (English), a master’s degree in English and a doctorate in educational leadership; she also teaches English composition online, works as a substitute teacher in the district’s buildings and volunteers with Meals on Wheels through Middlebury AgeWell. Pinkerton said she is semi‑retired, has time to serve and wants to contribute her training and experience to district policy work.

The public comment periods before and after candidate remarks included endorsements for Murphy. In the in‑room public comment period, Shoreham resident Vera Bergeron said, “She is very determined. She’s very passionate. She cares about the future of the school for the kids,” and called Murphy a “great addition.” Online, a teacher who identified herself as Megan said Murphy “knows the Shoreham community” and would be “an amazing addition” as the Shoreham representative. Another online commenter, Rebecca, later said Murphy “consistently puts kids first” and urged support.

Board members asked both candidates about the district’s equity‑based strategic plan and other priorities. When asked about familiarity with the equity plan, both said they would need time to learn the details before contributing substantively; Pinkerton emphasized listening and learning, and Murphy cited personal connections—including family experience—that inform her interest in equity work. On top priorities for the coming year, candidates identified ongoing consolidation conversations (Cornwall and Weybridge), budget and finance pressures and classroom issues such as managing student use of personal technology and preparing students to use evolving tools.

On facilities planning and the district’s five‑year capital improvement plan, Pinkerton said she would visit sites, ask district staff and experts questions and rely on committee members and technical staff before proposing options. Both candidates framed their approach as one of listening to families, teachers and students and learning district needs before making decisions.

After the candidate Q&A and public comments, the board dismissed the candidates from the public meeting and approved a motion to enter executive session to discuss the appointment under the statute cited on the record. The transcript ends with the board entering executive session; no public appointment vote or result appears in the provided record.

The board is expected to reconvene after the executive session and announce any appointment or next steps publicly.