A systematic rotation of principals can spark a willingness to tackle new challenges. Recommends the following strategies: (1) adopt a systematic rotation policy; (2) avoid random school assignments; (3) be prepared for a strong reaction from administrative staff; and (4) review personnel policies that might conflict with a rotation policy. (MLF)

Recounts an urban principal's decision to "chuck it all" and accept a Fulbright award to direct library expansion, inservice education, and curriculum development in a Cairo (Egypt) school district. Windows are broken, desks are scarce, teacher pay is abysmal, and vice principals roam the halls with sticks to goad stragglers. Is this…

A Connecticut principal who has headed 6 schools in 22 years believes that moving around has improved his leadership capabilities. The district's rotation system has kept him professionally fresh and adept at facing the unknown and handling crises. Undaunted by outmoded buildings or violent hallways, this "gypsy" principal feels that…

Although downshifting from the superintendency to a principalship is an unusual career move, "Executive Educator" easily located five "born-again" principals to interview. Principals felt their job's shirt-sleeve intensity and chances to work with children compensated for lower pay and status. Four enjoyed shorter work hours. A…

Superintendents today have less or shorter lasting authority than their predecessors for reasons that include the influence of special interest groups and the public's desire for flash instead of substance in personal character. Advises superintendents to make their character the center of their leadership, build a sense of community, and help…

Beginning superintendents should reconsider before buying homes and settling into new communities. Today's superintendent, like the Old West hired gun, has a short, precarious tenure. Superintendents should be prepared, learn to recognize signs of trouble, quit while they're ahead, and keep their (metaphorical) bags packed. Board hostility is…

Presents a brief history of women in school administration. Reports on a survey of and interviews with women superintendents on such topics as personal backgrounds, career paths, factors contributing to success, advice to other women administrators, and sex bias in education. (IW)

The average life expectancy of a superintendent in a given post is three years. By that time, the position has been steadily weakened by accumulating enemies spawned by unforeseen events. A research survey of 50 "early leavers" discloses 3 primary disincentives: poor board-superintendent relationships; conflict with board over educational…