Professional weaknesses such as failure to gain school board support or respect can cause superintendents to lose their jobs. By combining strong leadership with effective management, a superintendent can shape organizational structures and processes to produce specific results while inspiring and motivating people toward a definite vision. (MLH)

Increasingly, school boards are using consultants to help them hire the right superintendents for their school systems. Proposes extending the consultants' contracts to coaching both board and superintendents on developing an effective working relationship. (MLF)

When two former principals in central office positions set out to improve administrative communications, their goal was to achieve the quality of exchanges often occurring in the faculty room. With the superintendent's support, they successfully approached district principals with the idea of scheduled, informal, open agenda meetings between them…

Outlines steps toward developing a sound superintendent evaluation system, including setting priorities, using policy as a guide, using job descriptions, setting expectation standards, defining effectiveness, designing rating systems, conducting the evaluation, holding a frank discussion, and encouraging honest communication. (MLH)

Administrative roles are perceived as only moderately stressful. Some gender differences in stress patterns are identified along with lesser differences in the administrative roles studied. Physical activity is common and may be related to lower-than-anticipated levels of stress. (JD)

Public school systems can adapt private sector strategies to make the most of their resources. The superintendent and the board should develop measurable objectives, agreed upon by the consumers and the producer, for delivering the product. Contracting with commercial companies can reduce costs while increasing services. (MLF)

Describes a Florida superintendent's harrowing experience after ignoring the governor's directive to defy a court order to begin forced student busing. The superintendent and the courts eventually triumphed by acting in the best interests of the students and the school system. The governor was fined and lost his bid for reelection. (MLH)

A positive relationship between the board and the superintendent keeps a school system running. Offers 10 tips to promote such a relationship. (MLF)

Confidentiality during a superintendent search is essential in order to attract the best candidates. Board members should use confidentiality as a selling tool; use discretion during onsite visits; and make their decision quickly. (MLF)

A superintendent search consultant advises would-be superintendents to avoid resume overkill, succinctly summarize relevant education and experience, provide transcripts and copies of best reference letters, and update references. Candidates are also advised to be frank about personal "skeletons," prepare adequately for interviews, dress…

This study, involving extensive interviewing of 27 women superintendents (and husbands, board members, administrative staff members, and observers), examines gender issues in the theory and practice of educational leadership. The distinction between task-focused and follower-focused leadership may involve an integration of the two styles. Women…

Cellular phones are becoming indispensable to school employees. There are three types: mobile, transportable, and hand-held, pocket-sized phones. Conversion from analog to digital technology has improved service and gained new customers. A Texas junior high school's new minicellular system allows teachers phone access to parents and has improved…

Charts attitudes of the first generation of governors appointed to the Church of England voluntary aided primary schools in the Chichester (England) diocese, following the new Instruments of Government implemented in 1985. The foundation governors remain highly committed to maintaining a distinctive church-related ethos in these schools. (60…

School administrators are advised to welcome charter schools. Superintendents should incorporate charter schools into their overall strategy, be boosters, provide visibility and recognition, neutralize hostile allies, make central office staff available, establish contact persons, and expedite financial matters. If academic achievement fails to…

According to a survey of 46 recently departed Michigan school superintendents, departing superintendents can announce their intention to leave and still maintain a viable leadership role. Lame-duck superintendents should help the board think through the superintendent-selection process and review possible promotions, recognize staff achievements,…