The superintendency in a California school district: preparation, recruitment, and career longevity

2018-03-14The purpose of this study was to understand the strategies, skills, and experiences that support the preparation, recruitment, and retention of first-time superintendents. Three research questions guided the study: ❧ 1. How have training programs and experience prepared superintendents to manage the complexities and challenges of the superintendency? 2. What are the perceptions of current successful superintendents and school boards regarding strategies used to help the current superintendent to attain his or her position? 3. What are the perceived strategies that support the retention of superintendents? ❧ This qualitative study relied on interviews with first-time superintendents, school board members, and an executive search firm consultant as the primary source of information and data collection. Surveys were distributed via e-mail to superintendents and board members; the responses were utilized to support the qualitative data. Through triangulation of data, the results suggest that past professional experiences and on-the-job training serve to prepare first-time superintendent for the job. Although seen as valuable, training and university programs did not prepare first-time superintendents for the job. The study revealed that career paths to the superintendency are varied; some first-time superintendents had a traditional path, others did not. More important to the recruitment of a first-time superintendent are his or her professional relationships with mentors and/or networks. Also highly important to being recruited is development and submission of an entry plan during the recruitment process. Finally, this study suggests that a positive relationship with the school board is instrumental to being retained. Equally important is the ability of a first-time superintendent to demonstrate leadership strategies that move the organization forward. Retention of the position also relies heavily on personal motivation and job satisfaction