Livonia board affirms superintendent with top rating, grants tenure and honors retiring staff
Summary
The board on Dec. 15 approved Superintendent Andrea Okwist’s 12/08 evaluation with an 'effective' rating, granted tenure to two teachers and adopted appreciation resolutions for four retiring employees; board members publicly praised Okwist’s leadership.
The Livonia Public Schools Board voted unanimously on Dec. 15 to accept the superintendent evaluation conducted Dec. 8 that rated Andrea Okwist as "effective," the highest rating on the MASB rubric. Board members delivered extended remarks praising Okwist’s long service to the district, her hands-on responsiveness and her leadership during budget and pandemic-related planning.
"She puts her heart and soul into the district and works tirelessly on behalf of the students and the staff," one board member said during remarks. Several members described specific examples of community engagement and administrative responsiveness.
On personnel matters the board accepted the superintendent's recommendations to grant tenure to Justin Combs (effective Dec. 18, 2025) and Kelly Johnson (effective Dec. 9, 2025). Administration confirmed the teachers completed probationary requirements, evaluations and documentation of student growth.
The board also adopted resolutions of appreciation for retirees listed on the agenda, noting the four employees retiring had a combined total of 111 years of service to the district. The board acknowledged the retirees and approved the resolutions unanimously.
These personnel votes were routine, came with staff presentations, and passed by roll call vote. Superintendent Okwist thanked the board and credited cabinet and school teams for the district’s work.
The meeting concluded with brief board comments and holiday wishes to staff, students and the community.
