WILMINGTON, MA — Superintendent Mary DeLai has resigned tonight over her August OUI arrest. The Wilmington School Committee has accepted her resignation.
Vice Chair Steve Bjork read a statement tonight after the Committee adjourned from a 3.5-hour Executive Session.
According to Bjork, DeLai notified School Committee Chair Julie Broussard around 2pm on Thursday.
“Based on that conversation and continuing conversations, this evening, Ms. DeLai has decided, for personal reasons, to tender her resignation as Superintendent of Schools in Wilmington,” announced Bjork.
The Committee accepted DeLai’s resignation.
“On behalf of the Committee, we would like to thank Ms. DeLai for her service to the children of Wilmington,” said Bjork.
“The Wilmington School Committee, our district administration, leadership team, faculty and support staff will continue to move our district forward,” continued Bjork. “We are extremely fortunate to have such a dedicated, caring professional staff and we will continue to work within our school community to provide the best educational experience for our children and families.”
The Committee is turning its attention to finding an interim superintendent who can ensure a “seamless transition” to the next permanent superintendent.
“We are looking forward to putting this matter behind us and moving forward,” concluded Bjork.
DeLai also spoke briefly, apologizing for the incident and for failing to disclose it.
“I apologize and take responsibility for my decisions,” said DeLai. “I regret the disappointment that I have caused my family, friends, colleagues, and members of this community. I also apologize for not disclosing this information myself, but it has been a difficult time for me and my loved ones, one that we had hoped to deal with privately”
DeLai thanked teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders for their support of her and the Wilmington Public Schools during her tenure.
“It has been an honor to serve this district and work with the staff and leadership team over the past 27 months,” said DeLai. “I wish only the best for Wilmington public schools, both now and in the future.”
Neither Bjork or DeLai took questions. School Committee members did offer any further comments.
NOTE: Article has been updated Monday at 11:45pm to include more of DeLai’s comments.
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