Longtime Vermont Educator Sarah H. Adams Dies at 85

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Sarah H. Adams, a longtime elementary school teacher in Vermont's Addison County, passed away at the age of 85. Adams taught at schools in Burlington and Starksboro over her career and was known for her patience, kindness, and ability to engage students. After retiring, she continued to stay active in her community, working part-time at a gardening store and teaching aerobics and Tai Chi classes.

Why it matters

Adams' passing marks the end of an era for the local education community in Vermont, where she was a beloved and respected figure for decades. Her commitment to teaching and lifelong learning, as well as her involvement in the community, made her an inspiring role model for generations of students and residents.

The details

Adams was born in New York and graduated from Wheaton College in Massachusetts before beginning her teaching career. She moved to Vermont in 1967 and taught at schools in Burlington and Starksboro, where she was known for putting on annual school plays that brought joy to students and parents. After retiring, she continued to stay active in the community, working at a gardening store and teaching fitness classes.

• Sarah H. Adams was born on April 9, 1940 in Corning, New York.
• She graduated from Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts in 1962.
• Adams moved to Vermont in 1967 and began teaching at schools in the Burlington and Starksboro areas.
• She retired from teaching and worked part-time at Gardener's Supply for 12 years.
• Adams passed away on February 4, 2026 at the age of 85.

What’s next

Plans for a remembrance service for Sarah H. Adams will be shared at a later time.