Mary Eastwood Introduced as New South School Principal

Hingham Public Schools appointed Mary Eastwood as the new Principal on Monday.

Eastwood will replace Eliza Burns who has taken the principal's position at the Cole Elementary School in Norwell.

Burns, who lives in Hingham and has four boys enrolled in Hingham Public Schools, said she is looking forward to being “just a mom” in town.

“It's going to be much better for me and my family to separate my professional life from my personal life,” Burns said in an email to Patch. “It has been an absolute pleasure to work in Hingham at South for the last 13 years of my career.  It is bittersweet, but I am thrilled to help transition the new principal into the position.” 

Hingham Superintendent Dr. Dorothy Galo introduced Eastwood at Monday night’s School Committee member.  She emerged as the leading candidate after a very thorough search which was conducted by the school’s screening committee made up of Dr. Galo,  Assistant Superintendent Ellen Keane, South School staff members, and parents reps.

At Monday’s school committee meeting, Galo praised Eastwood and said she is very thrilled that she accepted the position.

South School parents also shared similar remarks on Hingham Patch’s Facebook Page.

Stephen Hinckley wrote, "I've had two children go through Mrs. Eastwood class, she's the best."

Another South Hingham resident, MaryJoan Floresta Fryer wrote, "They couldn't have made a better choice. Mary Eastwood will be just awesome."

In her past, Eastwood has served as a fifth grade teacher and team leader at South School. Before coming to South, she has served as a Middle School teacher and Special Education teacher.