Addison Central board appoints Abigail Murphy to Shoreham seat after executive session

The Addison Central School District board voted 7–4 on July 20, 2026, to appoint Abigail Murphy to the vacant Shoreham school board seat after holding candidate interviews, hearing public comment and moving into executive session.

Murphy, a Shoreham resident who said she has long-standing ties to the community, introduced herself to the board and described experience she said prepares her for the post. "I have been immersed in Shoreham ... I am a mom of 3 and a business owner," Murphy said during her introduction, adding that she has been a foster parent and has been active on PTO and transportation efforts.

The appointment followed a period of board questioning about the district's equity-based strategic plan, consolidation with neighboring communities and the five-year capital improvement plan. Candidate Deborah Pinkerton, who holds a doctorate in educational leadership and described herself as a substitute teacher in the district, told the board she would "come in as a learner" and emphasized curriculum mapping, data analysis and supporting students with special needs.

Multiple public commenters urged the board to appoint Murphy. Shoreham resident Vera Bergeron told the board, "I think Abby would make a great addition to the school board," citing her local connections and commitment to children; Megan, who identified herself as a Shoreham teacher, and Rebecca, who spoke online, also expressed support.

The board moved to enter executive session citing a statute read aloud in the meeting (recorded in the transcript as "1 BSA 3 13 a 3") to discuss the appointment and invited administrators to join the discussion. After returning from executive session the board conducted a voice/roll-call vote and announced a count of 7 votes for Murphy and 4 for Pinkerton. The chair stated that Murphy will fill the Shoreham seat through March 2027; the meeting transcript did not record an exact calendar date in March.

Board members asked both candidates about priorities if selected. Murphy emphasized supporting teachers and students through consolidation-related changes, transportation and student wellbeing; Pinkerton emphasized asking questions, site visits and relying on people with technical knowledge for facilities and capital planning decisions. Neither candidate made policy commitments that required further board action at the meeting.

The appointment concluded the board's agenda; the board then adjourned.