Kathleen Merlo

Kathy Merlo has more than 35 years of experience in special education and has served Burlington Area School District since 2009. In 2017, she started as Director of Special Education for the District.

As Director of Special Education, her role is to support the academic, social, emotional, physical, and/or communication needs of students with handicapping conditions. She provides ongoing communication, accountability, and support for students, all staff, and parents/guardians.

She received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Special Education from UW-Whitewater. She has licenses from the Department of Public Instruction in Early Childhood, Cognitive Disabilities, and Director of Special Education. She has pursued advanced education and training in many areas including autism, mental health, and instruction of students in special education. Her professional specialty is meeting the educational needs of students ages 3-21 and early childhood education.