Central Vermont Adult Basic Education leader to retire

May 19, 2022  |  By Nancy McCann

Carol Shults-Perkins is stepping down as executive director of Central Vermont Adult Basic Education effective June 30. Courtesy photo

After more than 50 years of service, Carol Shults-Perkins has announced her retirement as executive director of Central Vermont Adult Basic Education effective June 30. 

Through its six education centers located throughout Central Vermont, including in downtown Waterbury, the organization provides adult education and literacy services to hundreds of Vermonters each year.

Shults-Perkins has played an integral role in the growth of Central Vermont Adult Basic Education from just two teachers to the 16-person, multi-office organization it is today. She began as one of two teachers hired to launch home-based instructional services for adults in the central Vermont area. In 1977, she became a member of the four-person leadership team while continuing her work as a teacher and staff supervisor. When the last of the leadership team members retired in 2012, Carol was appointed as the organization’s first and sole executive director. 

Shults-Perkins says that sharing in the joys and celebrations and achievements of the thousands of adults and teens served by Adult Basic Education has been one of the greatest pleasures and privileges of her life. 

The CVABE Board is grateful for Shults-Perkins’ many years of leadership and service to the organization’s Central Vermont communities throughout Washington, Orange and Lamoille counties. 

The board has announced that Catherine Kalkstein, currently executive director of the Washington County Diversion Program, has been named to succeed Shults-Perkins and will start in July as the new executive director. 

Nancy McCann is president of the Board of Directors of Central Vermont Adult Basic Education.