A superintendent is the chief executive officer of a school district, overseeing the entire district's operations. Many school superintendents have been promoted to the position after gaining experience in an administrative role within the district. Some superintendents were formerly teachers and gained district administrative qualifications through work experience, networking and acquiring educational credentials.
The superintendent provides instructional leadership and sets the overall tone and agenda for the schools, students and staff. She collaborates with the district’s school board to implement school policies, enforce these policies and manage the staff to ensure compliance with the district’s policies. The superintendent also establishes goals and objectives for the district and works with groups of employees to ensure compliance with these objectives.
The set qualifications to obtain a school superintendent position are established by each school district’s policies and statewide rules that relate to the position. Some districts may require applicants to possess a doctorate degree in education, while others may set the minimum educational qualifications with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in education coupled with specific years of work experience in an educational capacity.
Most district superintendents have derived their skills and experience by positioning themselves in administrative positions that have allowed them to manage groups of employees in the education industry or within a particular school district. Many also have worked as assistant superintendents before being promoted to the highest executive position.
Many employers may require candidates for the superintendent position to have some experience as an instructional leader to meet the job qualifications. Having a vision to promote the education of all students is an important factor that employers ascertain when interviewing applicants for a superintendent job. Most employers assess an individual’s ability to handle the school budgetary concerns and deal with the overall construction of the schools. Also, school superintendents should have leadership skills and the confidence and ability to effectively take on huge job responsibilities.
Aspiring superintendents should network with mentoring professionals, join national educational organizations and attend school board meetings to gain a clear understanding of the superintendent’s role. Many aspiring superintendents set objectives and goals several years in advance to pursue a career as school superintendent and gain knowledge by completing school administration courses, attending district workshops and other training opportunities. Those interested in the position should become aware and stay abreast of state and national laws related to education.
- Photo Credit: Steve Woods