Describes career changes and retirement choices made by outgoing "career" superintendents. Choices ranged from teaching and consulting to administering philanthropic organizations and launching a charter-boat business. (MLH)

A retired superintendent decided to become an educational consultant. A thorough self-assessment convinced him that speaking in front of groups and running training sessions constituted a perfect occupation. After attending a National Speakers Association meeting, he learned entrepreneurial and self-marketing skills that have paid off handsomely.…

Despite steep odds, the American Association of School Administrators is renewing its effort to ease the financial sacrifice of border-hopping superintendents. A 1998 legislative initiative, the Retirement Account Portability Act, drew 50 cosponsors. A similar legislative push is expected in 1999. (MLH)

A superintendent-turned-CEO describes similarities and differences between his two careers. Both positions significantly shape the organization's strategic direction, focus on results, and require long hours and great intensity. As CEO, the author is rewarded only for making progress, moves the organization rapidly to address changing…

Whether from frustration, ambition, or financial necessity, administrators are inclined to say "yes" when private companies come calling. Sometimes superintendents initiate contacts themselves and begin new careers as well-credentialed salespeople or behind-the-scenes think tanks. At the Edison Project, former superintendents work in…

Interim superintendencies, signaling an interruption in administrative continuity, are growing in duration and number. The right interim superintendent at the right time can bring respite, focus, or unity to a troubled or divided district. Today's mobile, activist interims often make critical decisions affecting their districts' long-term future.…

In this article, the author suggests that if there is one thing that can be said about nontraditional superintendents--the men and women of business, government and the military who leave those fields to become school system leaders--it is that they never take the easy job. "School districts tend to look outside for a superintendent only when…

Compared to the problem-centered world of the superintendency, the professoriate is characterized by a less-hectic environment of reflection, teaching, discourse, writing, and research. Professors have fewer support services, but work in a more collegial environment where committees make many decisions. Sidebars advise about faculty evaluation and…

Kevin Mitchell's calling card once read "criminal investigator," when his days and nights brought him to the scene of burglaries, assaults and any other felonies or misdemeanors reported to the sheriffs department in Buffalo, Wyo. Now his professional mission is nothing less than spearheading a battle for survival of a sparsely populated…

Superintendents planning to become professors must understand what is valued in academe and position themselves accordingly. Tips are provided for identifying available positions, understanding the search process, conducting preinterview research, preparing letters and resumes, presenting qualifications, and surviving interviews. Sidebars…

More superintendents are growing disillusioned and retreating to become principals, curriculum directors, or assistant superintendents. A California study showed that nearly 14% of superintendents assumed a lesser position rather than retiring. This article profiles former superintendents who blame unresponsive communities, inadequate preparation,…

Superintendents' lack of longevity mirrors society's quick-fix mentality. Superintendents acquire reputations (as money wizards or bond passers) and move to other districts requiring that expertise. However, superintendents need to be more than one-dimensional leaders, and school board members must become savvier about educational politics. (MLH)