New Burlington Special Ed Director Spent 20 Years In Wilmington

BURLINGTON, MA -- Burlington Public Schools named a replacement for Louise D'Amato, who abruptly resigned as special education director in November. Mary Houde has more than 20 years working in special education, including 20 years in Wilmington Public Schools.

"We’re excited to have someone with Mary’s expertise and experience and commitment to kids on our team," Burlington Superintendent Eric Conti said in a press release. "We’re fortunate to have had a deep applicant pool."

Houde did her undergraduate work at Framingham State College and has a master’s degree in Special Education from Gordon College.

"I was drawn to Burlington because I know that this is a great school district," she said. "I’m thrilled with the opportunity to work with a great staff and strong leadership team."

D'Amato stepped down after a brief administrative leave in October. D'Amato is being paid by the school system through the end of the fiscal year, and will also receive 51.33 in unused vacation days worth $29,381.24. She was be eligible to file for state unemployment benefits, according to a copy of her separation agreement Burlington Patch obtained from the school system under the state public records law.

In addition, the district was paid and interim director $150 per hour -- or $850 per day -- twhile it searched for a permanent replacement.

D'Amato was placed on leave in early October and resigned November 13. Her annual salary, based on her vacation pay, works out to about $143,000 annually. The agreement said she will have no formal duties for the remainder of the school year. The agreement also allows D'Amato to accept a new position while being paid by the district.

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Photo of May Houde by Burlington Public Schools.

Dave Copeland can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).