Janis Andrews, finalist for Palm Beach County schools superintendent, named chief academic officer

PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. - Janis Andrews, a finalist for Palm Beach County school superintendent this year, is the district's new chief academic officer.

The school board today unanimously appointed Andrews to the post, replacing Judith Klinek, who is retiring this fall. Andrews will take over the job immediately.

Andrews, 58, has been the district's assistant superintendent of curriculum and learning support.

She was the only in-house candidate for the superintendent's job until the board decided to reverse an earlier decision and consider interim Superintendent Wayne Gent.

Gent, who took the interim post on the idea that he could not seek the permanent position, was named superintendent in February.

During the board's consideration of candidates Andrews drew support from board members Karen Brill and Jenny Prior Brown.

Andrews, 58, can serve in her new position until Feb. 28, 2015. She has entered the Deferred Retirement Option Program and must forfeit her accrued payout and benefits unless she retires that day.

Klinek will stay on in an advisory capacity until she retires.