Letter to the editor: Charlestin shows courage in speaking out

Esther Charlestin was incredibly helpful to us last year in helping our son (and us) adjust to Middle School and creating a 504 plan. I know it wasn’t always easy! As a family, we are deeply saddened by the experience that she had, but not surprised. 

I am writing in support of Esther Charlestin, the previous Dean of Climate & Culture at Middlebury Union Middle School. I am asking our community to hear the truth about racism in Vermont and acknowledge her concerns about lack of support. 

The Addison Central School District has announced new and ongoing efforts to battle racism and intolerance in wake of the recent resignation of Middlebury Union Middle School Dean of Climate & Culture Esther Charlestin, who cited two racially-charged inci … (read more)

Middlebury Union Middle School’s first-ever dean of climate & culture has resigned from her job after only one year.

I share my story for those who feel invisible, who can’t speak because it could jeopardize their jobs, for those whose BIPOC children are struggling and they have no choice but to keep them in our public schools, and for those who have been silenced.

Esther Charlestin-Norford of Middlebury has graduated from the Vermont Leadership Institute at the Snelling Center for Government.

As the first-ever dean of climate & culture at MUMS, Esther Charlestin’s responsibilities will include student discipline, being a student case manager, facilitating after-school extracurriculars and supporting students and teachers.

Middlebury selectboard member Esther Charlestin is stepping down from her position due to her impending move to a different Addison County community.

While navigating my next steps and permanent housing, my mind wandered to others in our community experiencing the same thing. Those who work and live in Middlebury and are priced out, needing to find housing with short notice, and experience limited opti … (read more)