Supt. Andrees Talks with Patch Before Comedy Slam

On Friday, a comedy show to benefit the West Bloomfield Educational Foundation and an open house event are scheduled to celebrate the career of retiring Superintendent JoAnn Andrees.

Andrees has worked at the West Bloomfield School District since 1989, in various capacities: as principal at ; counselor, assistant principal and principal at ; and as assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction for the district.

Her retirement is effective June 30. signed a contract last month to lead the district for the next four years.

Andrees spoke with Patch this week regarding her retirement, career, and more.

How is the transition process being handled within the district administration? How are you planning to spend your time immediately after the transition?

"I plan to stay in the area and then I’ll see what I choose to do after a short vacation. My husband and I will look to see what we’ll do from here. Part of that will include some volunteer work and consulting a little bit."

"Dr. Hill is finishing up his position in Illinois. As he closes down there, he’ll be in town at a later date to complete the formal transition process ... (Assistant superintendents) Dr. Martin and Mr. Arnett will be here to stay. I know they're looking forward to working with him."

What do you see as the keys to the district succeeding after your retirement?  

"Dr. Hill is fortunate to be working in a community where volunteerism is second to none. I’d love to see the parents continue to support the schools as they’ve done through the years."

"I think that while the district is facing challenges is certain areas, we're looking across the state and seeing these same challenges reflected in many different districts."

"Moving forward, the district will continue to live within the parameters of the community. At the same time, it will look to increasing global opportunities for students going into a global marketplace. We're on the verge of a partnership with Cranbrook, which will allow students there to use our facilities and our students to use theirs. We hope it's another example of continuing to provide global opportunities for students."

Are you feeling nostalgic? Looking forward to the event on Friday?

"I am! It's a wonderful event, the comedy slam, at the end of the year, when you can really use a laugh. Of course, all of the proceeds go to West Bloomfield Educational Foundation. I have asked people not to give gifts to me in any way, but I’d love for them to make a donation to the foundation."

What do you think is it about yourself which has allowed you to succeed in this position? Any regrets from initiatives which you wanted to take on?

"Hopefully my people skills and my interaction with people helped me to achieve something I’ve always wanted to have. I think no matter what you do at the end of the day, it’s all about building strengths and relationships with people. I hope it will continue to help me years from now."

"I think you never walk out feeling you're totally complete. Hopefully along the way you’ve developed that which can help young people succeed. I’m pleased, but I’m never totally satisfied because I think there’s always one initiative youd like to do."

, the actor/comedian and Detroit native who returns home from Los Angeles for his second comedySLAM™ for the West Bloomfield Educational Foundation at 7 p.m. Friday in the West Bloomfield High School Auditorium. 

The comedySLAM™ features comedians Greg Hahn, Nate Bargatze, Dana Daniels, Jeff Dwoskin and Gabriel Nipote.

Tickets $35, or VIP $75, includes priority seating, meet and greet the comedians and dinner and drinks following the comedySLAM™. Visit wbef.net or call 248-865-6479.