Nyack Superintendent Receives $200K+ Payment After Resigning

NYACK, NY — The Nyack school superintendent who resigned suddenly June 30 was given a substantial amount of money plus a contribution to a retirement fund by the trustees.

The separation agreement between Eudes Budhai and the Nyack Union Free School District Board of Education, which was obtained by the Journal News through a Freedom of Information Law request, said the former superintendent received a $205,625 lump-sum payment, less taxes and deductions, plus a $45,000 contribution to a 403(b) retirement annuity.

Budhai will also be required to answer any questions the district may have through the end of September to allow for a smooth transition, the Journal News reported.

The Nyack Board of Education accepted Budhai's resignation June 30 and appointed Lizzette Ruiz-Giovinazzi, who is the assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, as acting superintendent temporarily. SEE: Nyack School Trustees Part Ways With Superintendent

In a statement to the community, the board trustees said they and Budhai agreed to the separation and the board remains "fully committed to its mission of equity, innovation and optimism as district leadership prepares our staff and school community for the 2022-2023 school year."

Budhai replaced James Montesano a year ago after a six-month search process. Montesano retired after 10 years as head of the district.

When he was hired, Budhai signed a four-year contract with a base salary of $265,000.