MIDDLEBURY — The Addison Central School District board on Monday unanimously elected Weybridge resident Mary Cullinane as its new chairperson, and Victoria Jette of Middlebury as its vice-chair.
Cullinane takes over for Peter Conlon, who in 2016 became the first chairman of a newly created ACSD board. Prior to unification under Act 46, Addison Central Supervisory Union schools were governed by separate boards — one for each of the seven elementary schools, and one representing both Middlebury Union middle and high schools.
Conlon and longtime Vice Chair Lorraine Morse chose not to seek re-election to their respective leadership positions.
Cullinane and Jette were alone in their respective candidacies for chair and vice chair.
Cullinane, in a statement provided to the Independent, praised Conlon and Morse for their stewardship of the board.
“Peter Conlon has transitioned a board that works together, respects diverse opinions, and recognizes the work ahead is difficult but necessary,” she said. “Both he and Lorraine Morse have demonstrated unselfish service and I want to thank them for all they have done and will continue to do.”
She noted the board continues to navigate a challenging agenda, which includes transitioning to an International Baccalaureate curriculum and completing a facilities master plan that could spark debate about potential school consolidations.
“The work of this board, our teaching and learning professionals and our community continues to present many opportunities and challenges,” Cullinane said. “I, along with my fellow board members are committed to bringing people together as we identify solutions that have all kids at the center of our intentions.”
Reporter John Flowers is at [email protected].