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Clearinghouse on Educational Policy and Management
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| College of Education · University of Oregon |
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Trends and Issues: Role of the School Leader
SuperintendentsJournal Articles (CIJE)John Kotter on Leadership, Management and Change. Author: Bencivenga, Jim Availability: One City Centre, Suite 200, 120 W. Seventh St., Bloomington, IN 47404-3925 ($30 annually for libraries; $6 individual copies). Tel: 812-855-8550; Fax: 847-562-8634. Journal Citation: School Administrator, v59 n2 p36-40 Feb 2002 Publication Date: 2002 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: CIJJUL2002 Abstract: Excerpts from interview with John Kotter, Konosuke Matsushita Professor of Leadership at the Harvard Business School, about his thoughts on the role of the superintendent as leader and manager. Describes his recent book "John P. Kotter on What Leaders Really Do," 1999. Lists eight-step change process from his book "Leading Change," 1996. (PKP) Descriptors: *Administration; Administrator Responsibility; *Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership; Principals; *Superintendents; EJ640836 EA539215 The Courage To Risk Forgiveness. Author: Geons, George A. Availability: One City Centre, Suite 200, 120 W. Seventh St., Bloomington, IN 47404-3925 ($30 annually for libraries; $6 individual copies). Tel: 812-855-8550; Fax: 847-562-8634. Journal Citation: School Administrator, v59 n2 p32-34 Feb 2002 Publication Date: 2002 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: CIJJUL2002 Abstract: Asserts that superintendents have several kinds of relationships, all involving some conflict, that require ethical and moral attention. Contends that superintendents should have the courage to risk ethical forgiveness in these relationships. Describes five characteristics of ethical forgiveness: Wholeness, inner balance and peace, release, openness, and healing. Offers several reasons to forgive. (PKP) Descriptors: Elementary Secondary Education; *Ethics; *Leadership Qualities; Moral Values; Relationship; *Superintendents Identifiers: *Forgiveness EJ640835 EA539214 Core Values of the Superintendency. Author: Kelleher, Paul Availability: One City Centre, Suite 200, 120 W. Seventh St., Bloomington, IN 47404-3925 ($30 annually for libraries; $6 individual copies). Tel: 812-855-8550; Fax: 847-562-8634. Journal Citation: School Administrator, v59 n2 p28-31 Feb 2002 Publication Date: 2002 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: CIJJUL2002 Abstract: Shares some core values for effective leadership based on 20 years of experience as a superintendent: Define priorities, establish procedures to evaluate staff, respond to criticism, ensure that staff understand board members do not have individual authority, model learning for others, communicate with clarity and specificity. (PKP) Descriptors: Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership Qualities; *Superintendents; *Values; EJ634846 EA538882 Teamwork at the Top. Author: Vail, Kathleen Availability: Kluwer Academic Publisher, 101 Philip Dr., Assinippi Park, Norwell, MA 02061. Tel: 781-871-6600. Journal Citation: American School Board Journal, v188 n11 p23-25 Nov 2001 Publication Date: 2001 ISSN: 0003-0953 Language: English Document Type: Guides--Non-classroom (055); Journal articles (080) Journal Announcement: CIJAPR2002 Abstract: Professionals who have worked with school leaders say conflict results from the board and superintendent stepping into each other's territory. They advise: beware the revolving door; keep your roles straight; redefine your concept of power; build trust; know where you're going; and know when to cut your losses. A sidebar lists resources. (MLF) Descriptors: Administrator Role; *Board Administrator Relationship; Board of Education Role; *Boards of Education; *Collegiality; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership Effectiveness; *Superintendents; *Teamwork; EJ630831 EA538515 Resilience in the Face of Adversity. Author: Patterson, Jerry Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v58 n6 p18-24 Jun 2001 Publication Date: 2001 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJFEB2002 Abstract: "Resilience" is the capacity for moving ahead under adverse circumstances. School superintendents are advised to stay upbeat and mindful of "both-and" opportunities; stay focused on what they care about; remain flexible and tolerant of ambiguity; be proactive, not reactive; and apply resilience-conserving strategies during tough times. (MLH) Descriptors: *Coping; Elementary Secondary Education; Guidelines; *Leadership Responsibility; *Resilience (Personality); *Superintendents; *Work Environment Identifiers: *Hard Times; *Management Practices EJ630830 EA538514 Chief Academic Officers. Author: Mathews, Jay Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v58 n6 p12-17 Jun 2001 Publication Date: 2001 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJFEB2002 Abstract: The emergence of a number 2 post (chief academic officer) focused on instructional leadership brings a new dynamic to the central office-particularly those headed by nontraditional superintendents. Used in universities, the CAO title lends cache. Women can get stuck in CAO positions; a few districts are eliminating them. (MLH) Descriptors: *Academic Deans; *Administrator Effectiveness; Educational Trends; Elementary Secondary Education; *Instructional Leadership; *Leadership Responsibility; Political Influences; Politics of Education; *Superintendents; *Women Administrators Identifiers: San Diego Unified School District CA EJ630829 EA538513 Nontraditional Thinking in the Central Office. Author: Mathews, Jay Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v58 n6 p6-11 Jun 2001 Publication Date: 2001 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Descriptive (141); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJFEB2002 Abstract: Many new, enthusiastic superintendents with backgrounds in business, law, and the military apply a service mentality and a results orientation. Profiles of Alan Bersin, John Stanford, Harold Levy, John Fryer, Brian Benzel, and Paul Vallas illustrate nontraditional leaders' challenges and accomplishments in the nation's largest school districts. (MLH) Descriptors: *Accountability; Elementary Secondary Education; Goal Orientation; Lawyers; *Leadership Qualities; *Military Personnel; Personality Traits; *Public Service; Quality Control; *Superintendents; Urban Schools; Work Experience Identifiers: *Business Executives; Chicago Public Schools IL; New York (New York); Washington (Seattle) EJ629313 EA538410 The Outsiders: Can a New Breed of Noneducator Superintendents Transform Urban School Systems? Author: Hurwitz, Sol Availability: Journal Citation: American School Board Journal, v188 n6 p10-15 Jun 2001 Publication Date: 2001 ISSN: 0003-0953 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Descriptive (141); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJJAN2002 Abstract: The urban school systems of four nontraditional superintendents (Harold Levy, Roy Romer, Paul Vallas, and Alan Bersin) include the nation's three largest (New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago) districts and San Diego. Some of these chief executives are managing more successfully than others; all four are facing difficult obstacles. (MLH) Descriptors: *Administrative Problems; Administrator Characteristics; Boards of Education; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership Styles; *Politics of Education; Public Schools; *Superintendents; *Urban Schools Identifiers: *Beginning Administrators; Chicago Public Schools IL; Los Angeles Unified School District CA; New York (New York); San Diego Unified School District CA EJ627856 EA538289 The Superintendent as a Temp. Author: Clark, Robert J. Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v58 n4 p40-41 Apr 2001 Publication Date: 2001 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Opinion papers (120) Journal Announcement: CIJDEC2001 Abstract: 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) Descriptors: Board Administrator Relationship; Career Change; Consultants; Elementary Secondary Education; *Labor Turnover; *Leadership Qualities; *Politics of Education; *Superintendents; *Temporary Employment Identifiers: *Administrative Succession; Expertise; *Longevity EJ621320 EA538024 Superintendents for the 21st Century: It's Not Just a Job, It's a Calling. Author: Houston, Paul Availability: Journal Citation: Phi Delta Kappan, v82 n6 p429-33 Feb 2001 Publication Date: 2001 ISSN: 0031-7217 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJAUG2001 Abstract: The 21st-century superintendent faces several challenges: changing demographics (growing diversity), the divide between haves and have-nots, devaluation of children (reliance on remediation over prevention), de-emphasis on education for citizenship, deregulation, devolution of power, "demassification" (fewer common information sources), and disintermediation. The superintendency is a mission, not a job. (MLH) Descriptors: Citizenship Education; *Democratic Values; *Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership Responsibility; *School Demography; *Superintendents; *Work Environment Identifiers: *Facilitator Styles; Reflective Practice EJ617816 EA537761 A Right-Brain Perspective on Leadership. Author: Millward, Robert E. Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v57 n8 p26-29 Sep 2000 Publication Date: 2000 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJJUN2001 Abstract: Three-dimensional model building can help superintendents understand and monitor alternative perceptions of the school organization. Using simple models to depict district leadership or supervision plans (using nails in a board or other simple materials) can bring tangible meaning to abstract visions. (MLH) Descriptors: *Brain; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership; *Models; *Role Perception; *School Organization; *Superintendents EJ617814 EA537759 A Radical Role for Superintendents. Author: Negroni, Peter J. Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v57 n8 p16-19 Sep 2000 Publication Date: 2000 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJJUN2001 Abstract: To buffer education's instructional core, superintendents increasingly have been diverted from teaching and learning and pressured to become operations managers and political beings fostering confidence in schools and communities. Today's superintendents should become responsible for helping their communities develop a common language about teaching and learning. (MLH) Descriptors: *Administrator Role; *Community Involvement; Elementary Secondary Education; *Instructional Leadership; *Leadership Responsibility; *Politics of Education; Role Perception; *Superintendents Identifiers: *Management Practices EJ617813 EA537758 Standards and the Lifeworld of Leadership. Author: Sergiovanni, Thomas J. Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v57 n8 p6-12 Sep 2000 Publication Date: 2000 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJJUN2001 Abstract: Used alone, mandated standards and tests provide a dangerously narrow approach to accountability. Superintendents' proper response is layering and realignment-working to improve standards' validity and contribution to school improvement. Superintendents should provide leadership that increases schools' adaptability and spurs environmental changes. (MLH) Descriptors: *Academic Standards; Accountability; Administrator Role; Change Agents; Community Involvement; Educational Environment; Educational Improvement; Elementary Secondary Education; *Environmental Influences; High Stakes Tests; *Leadership Responsibility; *Organizational Climate; *School Culture; *Superintendents; Values Identifiers: *Adaptive Capacity; Mandated Tests EJ617330 UD522646 Impressions of Leadership through a Native Woman's Eyes. Author: Simms, Muriel Availability: Journal Citation: Urban Education, v35 n5 p637-44 Dec 2000 Publication Date: 2000 ISSN: 0042-0859 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: CIJMAY2001 Abstract: Expresses the opinions of a Native American woman who is active in civic and school organizations about the role of the school superintendent, especially in schools with Native American children. This Lakota community worker views the quality of community as essential in redirecting the superintendent's role from "power over" to "power with" to nurture community relationships. (Author/SLD) Descriptors: *American Indians; Attitudes; *Cultural Awareness; Cultural Differences; *Instructional Leadership; *Power Structure; *Superintendents Identifiers: *Native Americans Descriptive Terms: Special issue: "Women of Color and the Superintendency." Section titled "Questioning the Superintendency." EJ617325 UD522641 Claiming Forgotten Leadership. Author: Mendez-Morse, Sylvia Availability: Journal Citation: Urban Education, v35 n5 p584-96 Dec 2000 Publication Date: 2000 ISSN: 0042-0859 Language: English Document Type: Information Analysis (070); Journal articles (080) Journal Announcement: CIJMAY2001 Abstract: Presents examples and research findings that contradict the typical stereotypes of Latina leadership. Examines the idea that Latina superintendents are atypical of their ethnicity and gender with the idea of claiming Latina leadership legacies that bring an alternative perspective to the discourse on leadership. (Author/SLD) Descriptors: *Educational Administration; Elementary Secondary Education; *Females; *Hispanic Americans; *Instructional Leadership; Racial Discrimination; Sex Discrimination; Stereotypes; *Superintendents Identifiers: *Latinas Descriptive Terms: Special issue" "Women of Color and the Superintendency." Section titled "Living in the Superintendency." EJ606426 EA537050 Successful Women Superintendents: Developing as Leaders, Learning from Failure. Author: Pankake, Anita M.; Schroth, Gwen; Funk, Carole Availability: Journal Citation: ERS Spectrum, v18 n1 p3-13 Win 2000 Publication Date: 2000 ISSN: 0740-7874 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Research (143) Journal Announcement: CIJNOV2000 Abstract: In a Texas study, six successful women superintendents identified vision, passion and commitment, promotion of leadership in others, integrity, knowledge, and stamina as important leadership qualities. Family support, varied work experiences, mentors, formal education, turning points, and failure played important roles in their leadership development. (MLH) Descriptors: *Administrator Effectiveness; Elementary Secondary Education; *Failure; Interviews; *Leadership Qualities; *Learning; *Superintendents; *Work Experience Identifiers: Commitment; Knowledge Development; *Texas EJ601162 EA536798 Laying the Groundwork for a Reconception of the Superintendency from Feminist Postmodern Perspectives. Author: Grogan, Margaret Availability: Journal Citation: Educational Administration Quarterly, v36 n1 p117-42 Feb 2000 Publication Date: 2000 ISSN: 0013-161X Language: English Document Type: Information Analysis (070); Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJAUG2000 Abstract: Reviews 50 years of superintendency literature. Offers a possible reconciliation of the superintendency by juxtaposing the traditional with ideas from feminist and postmodern literature. Recognizing postmodern paradoxes allows questioning of the traditional superintendency and leads to more caring, socially committed leadership strategies. (Contains 138 references.) (MLH) Descriptors: Board Administrator Relationship; Elementary Secondary Education; *Ethics; *Feminism; *Leadership; *Postmodernism; Power Structure; Resistance (Psychology); *Superintendents; *Theory Practice Relationship Identifiers: Caring; *Discourse; Knowledge EJ601148 EA536646 Women at the Top. Author: Vail, Kathleen Availability: Journal Citation: American School Board Journal, v186 n12 p20-24 Dec 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 0003-0953 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Opinion papers (120) Journal Announcement: CIJAUG2000 Abstract: Profiles Diana Lam, Gerry House, and Esperanza Zendejas, who accomplished what few women do: they became school superintendents. Qualified female candidates for superintendents are out there. School boards need to pay attention to the way they hire personnel and focus on leadership skills. In addition, boards can support professional memberships and conferences designed for women administrators. (MLF) Descriptors: Administrator Behavior; *Administrator Selection; Boards of Education; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership Styles; Occupational Information; Public Schools; *Sex Bias; *Superintendents; Urban Schools; *Women Administrators; Work Attitudes Target Audience: Administrators; Policymakers; Practitioners EJ599064 EA536742 A Good Start. Author: King, Matthew; Blumer, Irwin Availability: Journal Citation: Phi Delta Kappan, v81 n5 p356-60 Jan 2000 Publication Date: 2000 ISSN: 0031-7217 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJJUL2000 Abstract: Leaders bring to new jobs their values and vision, the authority of their position, and their reputation and accomplishments. How new superintendents conduct themselves during the critical entry/"honeymoon" phase affects their subsequent working relationships and leadership effectiveness. Structured interviews with staff, parents, and students are invaluable aids. (MLH) Descriptors: Accountability; *Administrator Effectiveness; Boards of Education; Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; *Interpersonal Competence; *Interviews; *Job Performance; *Leadership Responsibility; Norms; Reputation; School Culture; *Superintendents; Values Identifiers: *Beginning Administrators; Management Practices EJ599053 EA536730 Ten Things Superintendents Can Do To Create and Maintain an Effective School Governance Team. Author: Goodman, Richard H.; Fulbright, Luann Availability: Journal Citation: ERS Spectrum, v17 n4 p3-13 Fall 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 0740-7874 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJJUL2000 Abstract: To improve board-administrator relations, superintendents should establish a firm foundation for teamwork, nurture mutual respect and support, understand their roles, be a supercoach, encourage frequent, two-way communication, avoid surprises, discourage micromanagement, avoid wasting teammates' time, tackle conflict, and assess the team's progress. (Contains 24 references.) (MLH) Descriptors: *Board Administrator Relationship; Communication Problems; Elementary Secondary Education; *Governance; *Leadership Responsibility; *Role Perception; *Superintendents; *Teamwork Identifiers: Respect EJ597142 EA536662 Hidden Rules of the Superintendency. Author: Caloss, Ronald Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v56 n11 p46 Dec 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Opinion papers (120) Journal Announcement: CIJJUN2000 Abstract: Effective superintendents recognize three key management precepts and their hidden rules. Administrators should avoid mixing emotion and logic, attending to detractors' emotional needs before presenting a differing viewpoint. They should be graceful under pressure, expect the unexpected, and build coalitions gradually, mindful of all community stakeholders. (MLH) Descriptors: *Board Administrator Relationship; Community Support; Elementary Secondary Education; Guidelines; *Interpersonal Competence; *Leadership Responsibility; Meetings; *Public Relations; *Superintendents Identifiers: *Coalitions; *Management Practices EJ597141 EA536661 Management by Spontaneity. Author: Olson, Richard M.; Thomas, M. Donald Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v56 n11 41-45 Dec 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJJUN2000 Abstract: Management by spontaneity shuns job descriptions, supervisory duties, needs assessment, strategic planning, group process, and problem solving. Not for the fainthearted, MBS requires knowledge of psychology, lawyerly skills, and philosophic wisdom. MBS remains untested, as current job descriptions have confined authors to MBO and TQM. (MLH) Descriptors: *Administrator Role; Elementary Secondary Education; Group Dynamics; Guidelines; *Humor; *Leadership Styles; Management by Objectives; Needs Assessment; *Organizational Theories; Planning; Problem Solving; School Administration; *Superintendents; Supervision; Total Quality Management Identifiers: Delegation of Authority; *Management Practices EJ592951 EA536320 Connecting the Disconnected. Author: Leverett, Larry Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v56 n8 p18-22 Sep 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Opinion papers (120); Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: CIJAPR2000 Abstract: To overcome cynicism, a New Jersey superintendent used his bully pulpit to convene community members in dialog about their schools' future. Enlightened public engagement led to facility improvements, technology infrastructure funding, expanded afterschool programs, critical-issues forums, state-aide advocacy efforts, and a culture of collaboration. (MLH) Descriptors: *Community Involvement; *Conflict; Educational Technology; Elementary Secondary Education; *Institutional Survival; Internet; *Leadership Responsibility; School Community Relationship; *Superintendents Identifiers: *Bully Pulpit Policy Strategy; Capacity Building; Plainfield School District NJ; *Public Issue Forums EJ592949 EA536318 The Tough Sledding of District-Led Engagement. Author: Kimpton, Jeffrey S.; Considine, Jonathan W. Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v56 n8 p6-10 Sep 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Descriptive (141); Reports--Research (143) Journal Announcement: CIJAPR2000 Abstract: For three years, researchers at the Annenberg Institute for School Reform have documented public-engagement practices in various districts nationwide. Exemplary district-leadership strategies are profiled. Common elements include inclusive, indepth dialog; dedication to genuine school improvement; creation of dynamic partnerships; and candor, mutual trust, and shared information. (MLH) Descriptors: *Community Involvement; *Cooperation; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership Responsibility; *Partnerships in Education; *School Districts; *Superintendents; Trust (Psychology) Identifiers: *Annenberg Institute for School Reform; Brown University RI; Decatur Public Schools IL; Jefferson County Public Schools KY; Washoe County School District NV EJ589445 EA536116 Taking Risks: A Requirement of the New Superintendency. Author: Brunner, C. Cryss Availability: Journal Citation: Journal of School Leadership, v9 n4 p290-310 Jul 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 1052-6846 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJFEB2000 Abstract: Risk-taking is a critical leadership factor neglected in educational literature. A four-year national study explored risk-taking in the narratives of 12 women superintendents. These women had life circumstances (community and challenge) and personal characteristics (courage and curiosity) that helped them relax and take risks. (60 references) (MLH) Descriptors: *Administrator Role; Curiosity; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership Responsibility; *Risk; *Superintendents; *Women Administrators Identifiers: Courage EJ589420 EA536090 A Study of Superintendents' Change Leadership Styles Using the Situational Leadership Model. Author: Ireh, Maduakolam; Bailey, Joe Availability: Journal Citation: American Secondary Education, v27 n4 p22-32 Sum 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 0003-1003 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Research (143) Journal Announcement: CIJFEB2000 Abstract: Examines relationships among Ohio superintendents' leadership styles, style adaptability, and certain district characteristics identified as change oriented. Survey data from 611 superintendents showed that only district expenditure per student was significantly and positively related to leadership-style adaptability. Years of administrative experience influenced use of a participatory style. (40 references) (MLH) Descriptors: *Administrator Effectiveness; *Change Strategies; Elementary Secondary Education; Expenditure per Student; *Leadership Styles; Models; Participative Decision Making; School Districts; *Superintendents; Surveys Identifiers: Delegation of Authority; *Ohio; *Situational Leadership EJ589407 EA536077 Lessons from British Columbia: Leaders Get the Job Done Despite the Odds. Author: Renihan, Fred Availability: Journal Citation: School Leadership & Management, v19 n2 p209-12 May 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 1363-2434 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Opinion papers (120); Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: CIJFEB2000 Abstract: The superintendent of a highly politicized district in British Columbia discusses the micropolitics of top-down reform mandates imposed on his district. He describes ways that resourceful school leaders mediate provincial expectations while working simultaneously and interdependently to create collaborative professional cultures and rich learning opportunities for students. (MLH) Descriptors: *Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; Foreign Countries; *Leadership Responsibility; *Politics of Education; *School Culture; *Superintendents Identifiers: *British Columbia; *Micropolitics EJ588926 TM521912 Demonstrated Actions of Instructional Leaders: An Examination of Five California Superintendents. Author: Petersen, George J. Availability: Journal Citation: Education Policy Analysis Archives, v7 n18 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 1068-2341 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Research (143); Speeches/meeting papers (150) Journal Announcement: CIJJAN2000 Abstract: Studied perceived and actual leadership of five school district superintendents in California who focused on curriculum and instruction as the core technology of education. Identified four attributes superintendents thought were essential to their success as instructional leaders. Responses of principals and school board members to a questionnaire support the articulated actions and behaviors of these superintendents. (SLD) Descriptors: Administrator Attitudes; *Administrator Role; *Educational Administration; Elementary Secondary Education; *Instructional Leadership; School Districts; *Superintendents Identifiers: California Descriptive Terms: Electronic journal available at http://epaa.asu.edu/epaa; 28 pages. Version of a paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association (San Diego, CA, April 13-17, 1998). EJ588468 PS529327 Helping Teachers Survive in Society's Alamo: The Role of the Superintendent. Author: Peel, Joe; McCary, Mack Availability: Journal Citation: Childhood Education, v75 n5 p269-72 1999 Publication Date: 1999 ISSN: 0009-4056 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Opinion papers (120) Journal Announcement: CIJJAN2000 Abstract: Discusses four leadership roles for school superintendents to help teachers respond to increasing and often conflicting demands. These roles are (1) future interpreter and meaning maker to build an educational vision; (2) capacity builder to ensure student success; (3) collaboration builder both within and outside the district; and (4) organization builder to maintain constancy of focus and operation. (KB) Descriptors: *Administrator Role; Elementary Education; *Leadership Responsibility; *Superintendents; *Teacher Administrator Relationship; *Teacher Role Descriptive Terms: Annual Theme Issue: The Expanding Role of the Teacher. EJ581467 EA535363 The Power of the Superintendent's Leadership in Shaping School District Culture: Three Case Studies. Author: McAdams, Richard P.; Zinck, Richard A. Availability: Journal Citation: ERS Spectrumv16 n4 p3-7 Fall 1998 Publication Date: 1998 Language: English Document Type: Journal Articles (080); Reports (143) Journal Announcement: CIJOCT1999 Abstract: Explores the relationship between superintendent leadership and school districts' organizational culture, based on case studies of three successful Pennsylvania districts. Identifies leadership characteristics shared by these superintendents: espousing child- centered values; modeling district beliefs and values; and attending to educational priorities (staffing, goal setting, and staff development). (21 references) (MLH) Descriptors: *Administrator Characteristics; Case Studies; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership Styles; *School Culture; *School Districts; *Superintendents Identifiers: *Pennsylvania EJ574643 UD521005 Numero Uno. Author: Palmaffy, Tyce Availability: Journal Citation: Policy Review, n91 p12-17 Sep-Oct 1998 Publication Date: 1998 ISSN: 0146-5945 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: CIJJUN1999 Abstract: Describes the Ysleta School District, El Paso (Texas), which has, despite high poverty and a constant inflow of immigrants with limited English skills, the best test scores of any urban district in Texas. In spite of the district's accomplishments, the school board seems determined to oust the current superintendent. (SLD) Descriptors: *Academic Achievement; Boards of Education; Disadvantaged Youth; Elementary Secondary Education; Immigrants; *Instructional Leadership; Limited English Speaking; Political Influences; Poverty; School Districts; *School Effectiveness; *Superintendents; *Urban Schools; Urban Youth Identifiers: *Texas (El Paso); *Ysleta Independent School District TX EJ566216 EA534718 Books That Made a Difference. Availability: Journal Citation: School Administrator, v55 n6 p6-14 Jun 1998 Publication Date: 1998 ISSN: 0036-6439 Language: English Document Type: Book/product reviews (072); Journal articles (080); Opinion papers (120) Journal Announcement: CIJJAN1999 Abstract: Asked to identify one book that profoundly influenced their thinking, eight well-read superintendents recommended titles stressing learning and leadership themes. The list includes James Comer's "Waiting for a Miracle," Paulo Freire's "Pedagogy of the Oppressed," John Dewey's "Experience and Education," Antoine de Saint-Exupery's "The Little Prince," and Ronald A. Heifetz's "Leadership without Easy Answers." (MLH) Descriptors: *Administrator Effectiveness; *Educational Philosophy; Elementary Secondary Education; *Human Capital; *Leadership; *Lifelong Learning; *Superintendents Identifiers: *Management Practices EJ566197 EA534488 Leaders for Learning. Author: Goodman, Richard; Fulbright, Luann Availability: Journal Citation: American School Board Journal, v185 n4 p38-41 Apr 1998 Publication Date: 1998 ISSN: 0003-0953 Language: English Document Type: Information Analysis (070); Journal articles (080) Journal Announcement: CIJJAN1999 Abstract: Findings from "Getting There from Here," a yearlong study of effective school leadership in 10 districts in 5 states, identify some of the problems that get in the way of effective school leadership. Offers nine practices that boards and superintendents can use to work together to achieve district goals. (MLF) Descriptors: *Board Administrator Relationship; *Board of Education Policy; Elementary Secondary Education; *Governance; Public Schools; *Superintendents; *Teamwork Identifiers: *Leadership Effectiveness Target Audience: Administrators; Policymakers; Practitioners EJ564457 RC512540 Instructional Leadership Practices of Small, Rural School District Superintendents. Author: Boone, Mike Availability: Journal Citation: Rural Educator, v19 n3 p15-19 Spr 1998 Publication Date: 1998 ISSN: 0273-446X Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Research (143) Journal Announcement: CIJNOV1998 Abstract: A survey of superintendents in 10 small, rural school districts in Texas showed that they gave priority to the following leadership behaviors: (1) focusing all stakeholders' attention on instruction; (2) involving others in instructional planning; (3) communicating high performance expectations; (4) maintaining visibility; (5) supporting principals; and (6) holding principals accountable. (SAS) Descriptors: Administrator Attitudes; *Administrator Behavior; *Administrator Role; Educational Practices; Elementary Secondary Education; *Instructional Leadership; Leadership Qualities; Rural Education; *Rural Schools; School Districts; Small Schools; *Superintendents; Teacher Administrator Relationship Identifiers: Texas EJ563893 EA534594 Telling All Sides of the Truth. Author: Johnson, Susan Moore Availability: Journal Citation: Educational Leadership, v55 n7 p12-16 Apr 1998 Publication Date: 1998 ISSN: 0013-1784 Language: English Document Type: Journal articles (080); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: CIJNOV1998 Abstract: By fashioning a blended approach, two superintendents in radically different school districts systematically distinguished what worked and what was worth promoting from what was failing and had to be revised or eliminated. They both established credibility by encouraging teachers and principals to examine their practice, consider new ways of working, experiment with unfamiliar approaches, and make commitments to benefit students. (MLH) Descriptors: Case Studies; *Credibility; Elementary Secondary Education; *Honesty; *Leadership Qualities; *Role Models; Rural Schools; Suburban Schools; *Superintendents Identifiers: *Fairness; *Management Practices; United States (Northeast) EJ562489 EA534409 Leading for Change. Author: Eadie, Douglas C. Availability: Journal Citation: American School Board Journal v185 n3 p22-25 Mar 1998 Publication Date: 1998-00-00 ISSN: ISSN-0003-0953 Language: English Document Type: Guides (055); Journal Articles (080) Journal Announcement: CIJOCT1998 Abstract: A strong board-superintendent relationship is essential to lead change successfully. Strategic management focuses on identifying specific strategic issues that tend to involve such high educational, financial, or political stakes that they cannot sensibly be left to normal routine. Strategic change initiatives are a schedule of tasks with specific accountabilities and required resources. (22 references) (MLF) Descriptors: *Board Administrator Relationship; *Boards of Education; *Change Strategies; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership; Models; School Districts; *Strategic Planning; *Superintendents Target Audience: Policymakers Documents (RIE)Inspiring Leadership: A Philanthropic Partnership for Professional Development of Superintendents. A Report on a BellSouth Foundation Special Initiative. Author: Kronley, Robert A.; Handley, Claire Institutional Author: Center for Leadership in School Reform, Louisville, KY.(BBB37233); BellSouth Foundation, Inc. Atlanta, GA.(BBB27850) Availability: BellSouth Foundation, 1155 Peachtree Street, N.E., Room 7G08, Atlanta, GA 30309-3610. Tel: 404-249-2396; Fax: 404-249-5696; Web site: http://www.bellsouthfoundation.org. For full text: http://www.bellsouthfoundation.org/pdfs/slnreport.pdf. Publication Date: 2001 Language: English Document Type: Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: RIEMAY2003 Abstract: In 1996, BellSouth Foundation launched a $1.5 million initiative to address the central role of school district leadership in ensuring education reform in the South. This report describes the BellSouth Foundation's investment in the Superintendents Leadership Network (SLN) from a developer's and funder's point of view. It also describes how the partnership that led it began, grew, and informed the work, and what the 56 superintendent members say about it and about themselves. The SLN design is presented as a case study of "shared design," in which collaboration between the Center for Leadership in School Reform and BellSouth Foundation is highlighted. The report, however, is not a final and definitive set of lessons learned nor an evaluation of a completed project; the SLN is still very much a work in progress, and the next cohort of members will be joining the network in fall 2001. The report concludes with recommendations for the next iteration of the program. Appendix A lists SLN members, Appendix B lists institute meetings for 1997-2001, Appendix C presents state profiles, and Appendix D gives contact information. (RT) Descriptive Terms: This report contains a summary of the BellSouth/CLSR Superintendents Leadership Network. Produced by Kronley & Associates. Geographic Source: U.S.; Georgia ED468336 EA031888 The Superintendent Crisis: A Review by Search Consultants. ECS Issue Paper: Leadership. Author: Glass, Thomas E. Institutional Author: Education Commission of the States, Denver, CO.(BBB00544) Availability: Education Commission of the States, 700 Broadway, Suite 1200, Denver CO 80203-3460. Tel: 303-299-3600; Fax: 303-296-8332; Web site: http://www.ecs.org. For full text: www.ecs.org/clearinghouse/28/25/2825.htm. Publication Date: August 2001 Language: English Document Type: Information Analysis (070); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: RIEAPR2003 Abstract: The selection of a superintendent is the most important decision a school board will make. With that premise established, this brief study examines the superintendent search process and the state of the superintendent applicant pool. Data were gathered from 30 practicing search consultants who responded to a mailed questionnaire. The key findings were that the process is time-consuming and that the applicant pool is decreasing in size and quality. The findings suggest the following considerations for policymakers: (1) Training in superintendent-board relations, selection, and evaluation should be mandatory for school board members; (2) policymakers should consider means to develop portable interstate pension and retirement plans; (3) policymakers should explore ways to slow superintendent turnover and attract new applicants; (4) state departments of education should require search consultants to register; (5) states should consider providing grants to less-affluent school districts to help conduct superintendent searches; and (6) states should consider providing financial incentives to less-affluent districts to provide paid internships to district administrators with superintendent potential. This issue paper is the second in a series commissioned by the Education Commission of the States on issues relating to superintendent and school-board leadership. (WFA) Descriptors: *Administrator Selection; Administrators; Board of Education Role; *Boards of Education; *Consultants; Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; Human Resources; *Leadership; *School Administration; *Superintendents Geographic Source: U.S.; Colorado ED468335 EA031887 Superintendent Leaders Look at the Superintendency, School Boards and Reform. ECS Issue Paper: Leadership. Author: Glass, Thomas E. Institutional Author: Education Commission of the States, Denver, CO.(BBB00544) Availability: Education Commission of the States, 700 Broadway, Suite 1200, Denver CO 80203-3460. Tel: 303-299-3600; Fax: 303-296-8332; Web site: http://www.ecs.org. For full text: www.ecs.org/clearinghouse/27/18/2718.htm. Publication Date: July 2001 Language: English Document Type: Information Analysis (070); Reports--Evaluative (142) Journal Announcement: RIEAPR2003 Abstract: This issue paper is the first in a series commissioned by the Education Commission of the States on issues relating to superintendent and school-board leadership. The study from which this paper derives builds on earlier studies that focused on characteristics and demographics of the superintendency, and on the status of relations and functions of school boards and superintendents. This paper reviews those earlier studies and focuses on the results of a survey of 175 superintendents judged nationally by their peers to be outstanding. The key finding is that most superintendents (71 percent) agreed that the superintendency is in a state of crisis. This and other findings suggest the following considerations for policymakers: (1) Research is needed to determine what actions superintendents would take to restructure school-board governance; (2) policymakers need to consider means to develop portable, interstate pension and retirement plans; (3) states need to ensure adequate levels of funding; (4) policymakers should explore ways to retain superintendents; (5) research is needed to understand why there are so few women and minorities in the superintendent applicant pool; (6) research is needed to ascertain the political preferences of superintendents and school-board members; and (7) policymakers should investigate ways to decrease turnover in school boards. (WFA) Descriptors: Administrative Policy; *Administrators; *Boards of Education; *Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership; Policy Analysis; *School Administration; *Superintendents Geographic Source: U.S.; Colorado ED468298 EA031864 Boundary Spanning in School Leadership: Implications for Achieving Excellence. Author: Richardson, Lystra M. Availability: National Educational Service, 304 West Kirkwood Avenue Suite 2, Bloomington, IN 47404-5132 (Item No. BKF00101, $9.95). Tel: 812-336-7700; Tel: 800-733-6786 (Toll-Free); Fax: 812-336-7790; Web site: http://www.nesonline.com/Public/index.asp. Publication Date: April 2002 Language: English Document Type: Reports--Research (143); Speeches/meeting papers (150) Journal Announcement: RIEAPR2003 Abstract: This paper examines the evolution of the boundary-spanning role of the school superintendent and its impact on their ability to function effectively as educational leaders. This role, which is a relatively new development in the definition of superintendency, includes acting as a filtering agent controlling the flow of information in and out of the open and permeable boundary between the school system, the board of education, and the community. The various activities associated with boundary-spanning are also significant sources of stress. Literature on the superintendency reveals boundary-spanning to be a major challenge to the position. To study the impact of boundary-spanning on the role of superintendent, 149 Connecticut superintendents were surveyed via a mailed questionnaire, of which 109 produced usable returns. Data were analyzed qualitatively to determine types of major stressors and frequencies of incidence of each type. Sources of stress include politics, gaining support for budget, public criticism and expectations, the challenge of student achievement, negative press coverage, and the personal and professional toll generated by a heavy workload. The primary recommendation, which holds policy implications, is the need to reexamine the position of school superintendent, paying particular attention to the boundary-spanning role. (Contains 29 references.) (RT) Descriptors: Administrator Effectiveness; *Administrator Role; Board Administrator Relationship; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership Styles; Occupational Information; School Community Relationship; *Stress Variables; *Superintendents Descriptive Terms: Paper presented at the Annual Conference of the New England Educational Research Organization (34th, Northampton, MA, April 24-26, 2002). Geographic Source: U.S.; Connecticut ED460426 EA029402 The Superintendent of the Future: Strategy & Action for Achieving Academic Excellence. Author: Spillane, Robert R., Ed.; Regnier, Paul, Ed. Availability: Aspen Publishers, Inc., 200 Orchard Ridge Drive, Suite 200, Gaithersburg, MD 20878 ($59). Tel: 1-800-638-8437 (Toll-Free); Web site: http://www.aspenpub.com. Publication Date: 1998 ISBN: BN- 0-8342-1097-5; Language: English Document Type: Book (010); Guides--Non-classroom (055) Journal Announcement: RIEJUN2002 Descriptors: *Board Administrator Relationship; Budgeting; Educational Administration; Educational Change; Educational Finance; Educational Technology; Elementary Secondary Education; Futures (of Society); *Instructional Leadership; School Administration; School Safety; *Superintendents; Geographic Source: U.S.; Maryland ED460219 UD034671 The Public School Superintendency in the Twenty-First Century: The Quest To Define Effective Leadership. Author: Thomas, Janet Y. Institutional Author: Center for Research on the Education of Students Placed At Risk, Baltimore, MD.(BBB33036) Availability: Center for Research on the Education of Students Placed At Risk, Johns Hopkins University, 3003 North Charles Street, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21218. Tel: 410-516-8808; Fax: 410-516-8890; Web site: http://www.csos.jhu.edu. Sponsoring Agency: Office of Educational Research and Improvement (ED), Washington, DC. (EDD00036) Publication Date: October 2001 Report Number: CRESPAR-R-55 Language: English Document Type: Reports--Descriptive (141) Journal Announcement: RIEMAY2002 Abstract: This study examines research on public school leadership effectiveness, focusing specifically on the superintendent. It begins with a discussion of the historical mission to define leadership effectiveness, followed by a review of existing research on effective school districts and superintendents. The report also analyzes how superintendent effectiveness is defined and measured, concluding that this is one of the major shortcomings in the knowledge base. The report then details the obstacles that superintendents face in effectively managing a school system, including stability, the politicization of the profession, and superintendent and school board relations. Finally, the report presents suggestions for further research, which include addressing concerns regarding various operational definitions of effective leadership, examining the roles of the superintendent in their specific contexts, studying superintendent and school board relations, and providing information for preparing and recruiting effective educational leaders. (Contains 84 references.) (SM) Descriptors: *Administrator Effectiveness; Administrator Role; Boards of Education; Elementary Secondary Education; *Instructional Leadership; Politics of Education; Public Schools; *Superintendents Identifiers: *Leadership Effectiveness Contract Number: R-117-D40005 Geographic Source: U.S.; Maryland ED458712 EA031430 Who's in Charge around Here? Author: Chan, Tak Cheung; Pool, Harbison; Strickland, Jessie S. Availability: OECD Publications, 2, rue Andre-Pascal, 75775 Paris Cedex 16, France. Web site: http://www.SourceOECD.org. Publication Date: November 2001 Language: English Document Type: Information Analysis (070); Speeches/meeting papers (150) Journal Announcement: RIEAPR2002 Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the perspectives of 50 of the nation's best school superintendents to gain insight into their success. Researchers used a self-designed instrument, containing 38 quantifiable items in 5 sections: (1) the superintendent's background; (2) the superintendent's school district; (3) the superintendent's role; (4) the superintendent and his or her school board; and (5) the superintendent's leadership perspective. Surveys were sent to 50 superintendents. Responses indicate that more 77 percent had served as school principals at some point in their careers. No superintendent reported that he or she worked 40 or fewer hours; more than 85 percent worked 50 hours or more a week. Surprisingly, only 19 percent indicated daily symptoms of stress related to their jobs. More than 40 percent of the superintendents who needed to learn about school board/superintendent relationships went to the board chair, mostly using the telephone as their primary mode of communication with their boards. Seventy-five percent indicated that the majority of their role was that of leadership rather than management. All responding superintendents rated their own overall performance as educational leaders as either exemplary (45.8 percent) or good (54.2 percent). (Contains 14 references.) (DFR) Descriptors: *Boards of Education; Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership; *Leadership Qualities; Leadership Styles; Mentors; Principals; Public Schools; *School Administration; *Stress Variables; *Superintendents; Teaching Load; Working Hours; Descriptive Terms: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the Southern Regional Council on Educational Administration (Jacksonville, Florida, November 1-4, 2001.) Geographic Source: U.S.; Georgia ED458684 EA031396 Leadership for Student Learning: Restructuring School District Leadership. School Leadership for the 21st Century Initiative: A Report of the Task Force on School District Leadership. Institutional Author: Institute for Educational Leadership, Washington, DC.(BBB18552) Availability: Institute for Educational Leadership, 1001 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 310, Washington, DC 20036. Tel: 202-822-8405; Fax: 202-872-4050. For full text: http://www.iel.org. Sponsoring Agency: Office of Educational Research and Improvement (ED), Washington, DC. (EDD00036)@; UPS Foundation, Inc., Greenwich, CT. (BBB16937)@; Metropolitan Life Foundation. (BBB22696)@; Ford Foundation, New York, NY. (QPX27000)@; Carnegie Corp. of New York, NY. (QPX12280) Publication Date: February 2001 ISBN: BN- 0-937846-18-X; Language: English Document Type: Opinion papers (120) Journal Announcement: RIEAPR2002 Abstract: This report displays the themes and concerns that worried a cross-section of carefully selected educators and leaders in government, business, and civic groups. While failing to agree completely on the nature of the problems or their solutions, Task Force members were in accord on two conclusions: that district leaders must focus on the goal of improving student learning and that the school system must be organized in such a way as to make this its fundamental priority. Many school board members and superintendents say they do not have the training to handle all the new demands being placed on them. It is not surprising that there is a shortage of applicants for superintendent vacancies. Most school district leadership requires organizational leadership, public leadership, and instructional leadership. One model of leadership arrangement is policy governance with strict delineation of the board as policymaker and the superintendent as administrator. Nontraditional leadership patterns feature collaborative relationships where senior staff members share responsibilities that traditionally are handled by one person. Superintendents now may be corporate lawyers, business executives, or military officers. Strategies for district restructuring involve planning for recruitment and succession, creating and maintaining an informed leadership base, building a learning organization, and holding leadership accountable. (Contains 24 references.) (RKJ) Descriptors: *Academic Achievement; *Boards of Education; Elementary Secondary Education; *Leadership Responsibility; Public Schools; *School Districts; *School Restructuring; *Superintendents; Descriptive Terms: Based on the Task Force meeting in July 2000. Geographic Source: U.S.; District of Columbia ED450444 EA030833 Principles of Power: Women Superintendents and the Riddle of the Heart. Author: Brunner, C. Cryss Availability: State University of New York Press, c/o CUP Services, Box 6525, Ithaca, NY 14851 (paperback: ISBN-0-7914-4570-4, $22.95). Tel: 800-666-2211; Fax: 800-688-2877; E-mail: orderbook@cupserv.org; Web site: http://www.sunypress.edu. Publication Date: 2000 ISBN: 0-7914-4570-4 Language: English Pages: 200 Document Type: Book (010); Information Analysis (070) Journal Announcement: RIEAUG2001 Abstract: Though less reliant on military images, women administrators have also used, and been required to use, battle models of leadership. Those who operate under different leadership assumptions have only recently received professional acceptance. The work of Carlos Castenada reveals how the Yaqui Indians trained their spiritual leaders (their "warriors") by combining masculine and feminine forces, and he explores seven significant "Principles of Power" characteristic of both male and female warriors. Interviews with 12 female superintendents reveal the applicability of these principles to their professional lives. Principle 1, "Knowing the Battleground," focuses on the importance of expectations unique to women in a traditionally male-dominated position of authority. Principle 2, "Discarding the Unnecessary," explores sacrifices women superintendents must make. Principle 3, "Choosing Battles," explains challenges women face trying to meet students' needs. Principle 4, "Taking Risks," explores the need to take risks. Principle 5, "Seeking Retreat," examines the use of mental and emotional retreats. Principle 6, "Compressing Time," explains that female superintendents must be "time leaders" with a broad appreciation of multiple, intersecting realities. Principle 7, "Exercising Power," reviews the nature of exercising power under the collaborative models that power research reveals are characteristic of women leaders. Success in practicing the seven principles is revealed in the ability of these women to laugh at themselves, remain patient, and improvise in ways appropriate to the situations they confront as superintendents and as women. (TEJ) Descriptors: Administrators; Collegiality; Cooperation; Decision Making; Elementary Secondary Education; Imagery; *Leadership Styles; Metaphors; *Organizational Climate; *Participative Decision Making; Political Power; *Power Structure; Professional Development; Risk; Self Evaluation (Individuals); Social Networks; *Superintendents; Theory Practice Relationship; *Women Administrators Identifiers: New York Descriptive Terms: A volume in the SUNY series "Women in Education"; Margaret Grogan, editor. For others in the series, see ED 430 916 and ED 443 163. Geographic Source: U.S.; New York ED438602 EA030236 Femininity/Masculinity: Hegemonic Normalizations in the Public School Superintendency. Author: Skrla, Linda Availability: EDRS Price MF01/PC01 Plus Postage. Publication Date: April 1999 Language: English Pages: 25 Document Type: Information Analysis (070); Speeches/meeting papers (150) Journal Announcement: RIEAUG2000 Abstract: This paper examines why the training, certification, selection, and promotion of educational administrators ensures both the continuation of white-male dominance and of leaders oriented toward bureaucratic maintenance. The report draws on a poststructural conceptualization of power--the deployment of power through normalization--to provide an alternative perspective on research about women superintendents, one that has begun to accumulate over the past decade. The text focuses on how normalization of the superintendency, which began after World War II, has lead to productive effects of power. This normalization created the desires, behaviors, rules, and practices of societal institutions such as schools. The paper describes the underlying normalization that structures the discourses and practices of educational administration, and how these normalizations operate reciprocally at both individual and group levels. It discusses how the normalization of femininity/masculinity perpetuated male dominance in the superintendency, and how the superintendency became defined at the organizational level of schooling as a masculine role. It reframes the findings of several recent research studies on the superintendency, highlighting such issues as the lack of discussion by female school administrators concerning gender roles in their work, the conception that women lack ambition to rise to the superintendency, and the roles of leadership styles and power. (Contains 38 references.) (RJM) Descriptors: Educational Administration; Elementary Secondary Education; Females; *Femininity; *Instructional Leadership; Males; *Masculinity; Public Schools; *Sex Stereotypes; *Social Attitudes; *Superintendents; Women Administrators Identifiers: Poststructuralism Descriptive Terms: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association (Montreal, Quebec, Canada, April 19-23, 1999). Geographic Source: U.S.; Texas ED438108 RC022195 Leadership in Rural School Districts: Where Is the Superintendent? Author: Hooper, H. H., Jr. Availability: EDRS Price MF01/PC01 Plus Postage. Publication Date: October 1999 Language: English Pages: 12 Document Type: Reports--Research (143); Speeches/meeting papers (150) Journal Announcement: RIEJUL2000 Abstract: Gaining insight into rural school superintendents' concerns about serving special needs students in inclusive classrooms could help minimize problems in implementing this change. A survey using the Change Facilitator's Stages of Concerns Questionnaire was mailed to superintendents in all 708 rural school districts in Texas; 484 responses were received. Combining all three stages of implementation, 92.7 percent of the districts reported they were actively engaged with inclusion. Findings suggest that rural school superintendents wanted to know more about the "how-tos" of implementation, were not concerned about working with others to facilitate implementation, and were thinking about possible alternatives to inclusion. Superintendents' concerns were not affected by school district size or the proportion of special needs children in the total student population, but were affected by the stage of implementation in their district. (CDS) Descriptors: *Administrator Attitudes; Administrator Role; *Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; *Inclusive Schools; *Leadership; Rural Areas; *Rural Schools; School Districts; Special Needs Students; *Superintendents Identifiers: *Texas Descriptive Terms: Paper presented at the Annual Convention of the National Rural Education Association (91st, Colorado Springs, CO, October 13-17, 1999). Geographic Source: U.S.; Kansas ED429352 EA029760 The U.S. School Superintendent: The Invisible CEO. Author: Hodgkinson, Harold L.; Montenegro, Xenia Institutional Author: Institute for Educational Leadership, Washington, DC.(BBB18552); Joint Center for Political Studies, Washington, DC.(BBB15255); McKenzie Group, Washington, DC.(BBB28479) Availability: Institute for Educational Leadership, Inc., 1001 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 310, Washington, DC 20036; Tel: 202-822-8405; Fax: 202-872-4050; e-mail: iel@iel.org ($12 plus $2 postage and handling on billed orders). Publication Date: 1999 ISBN: 0-937846-26-0 Language: English Pages: 32 Document Type: Reports--Research (143) Journal Announcement: RIESEP1999 Abstract: This report focuses on school superintendents--those currently in the position and those in the pipeline. The report reaffirms the importance of the superintendency, raises concerns about the lack of national data collection on school superintendents, and concludes that Americans need more demographic information about, and increased understanding of, the role of the superintendent. The report opens by criticizing the lack of information that has been generated on superintendents and proceeds to supply details on those who hold this position. It looks at the proportion of women in the job, as well as the race and the age of the job holders. The report discusses how long superintendents stay in the job, longer than the news media suggest, and how much they earn. The report explores the routes to the superintendency and looks at the pool of potential candidates for the position, which includes assistant superintendents, central-office administrators, and principals. The makeup of this pool reflects promising diversity in gender and race, although there is almost a total lack of Asian Americans in the pool. Another feature of this pool of potential superintendents is that secondary school principals are much more likely to become superintendents than are elementary school principals. (Contains 16 references.) (RJM) Descriptors: Educational Attitudes; Elementary Secondary Education; *Instructional Leadership; *Misconceptions; *School Administration; School Supervision; *Superintendents Descriptive Terms: From "Superintendents Prepared," an Urban Leadership Consortium. Geographic Source: U.S.; District of Columbia ED425502 EA029285 The Roles of the Superintendent in Creating a Community Climate for Educational Improvement. Author: Owen, Jane C. Availability: EDRS Price MF01/PC02 Plus Postage. Publication Date: April 1998 Language: English Pages: 50 Document Type: Reports--Research (143); Speeches/meeting papers (150) Journal Announcement: RIEMAY1999 Abstract: This paper analyzes the changing public school superintendency. It reports on a study that identified the roles of the superintendent in facilitating positive and productive community involvement in the educational process, as well as the strategies and tactics used by superintendents as they mold community climates to create receptivity for educational improvement. Two large districts in southern Texas were chosen for the study, both having been characterized by discord between the community and the schools. The focus is on two new superintendents and the roles, strategies, and actions they employed to align their respective districts with the community. To provide background information, the text discusses "The superintendent and the community" and "The superintendent and change." The study methodology followed an emergent naturalistic multiple-case-study format and incorporated M. Q. Patton's theory that qualitative methods are particularly oriented toward exploration, discovery, and inductive logic. A pilot study was conducted to fine-tune interview questions. The findings show three major leadership roles are part of the superintendent's job: political leadership, educational leadership, and managerial leadership. The strategies and tactics enacted through the leadership roles are discussed. (Contains 41 references and 8 figures.) (RJM) Descriptors: Administrator Attitudes; Administrator Characteristics; Administrator Effectiveness; *Administrator Role; Educational Administration; Elementary Secondary Education; Leadership Qualities; *Leadership Styles; *Public Schools; School Community Relationship; *Superintendents Descriptive Terms: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association (San Diego, CA, April 13-17, 1998). Geographic Source: U.S.; Texas ED422665 EA029352 Demonstrated Actions of Instructional Leaders: A Case Study of Five Superintendents. Author: Petersen, George J. Availability: EDRS Price MF01/PC02 Plus Postage. Publication Date: April 1998 Language: English Pages: 38 Document Type: Reports--Research (143); Speeches/meeting papers (150) Journal Announcement: RIEFEB1999 Abstract: The district superintendent's instructional leadership has emerged as a critical issue in ongoing efforts to reform schools. To elaborate on this trend, an exploratory case study that focused on the perceived and actual leadership characteristics and actions of district superintendents is presented here. For the study, indepth interviews were conducted with five district superintendents in California. Interview responses indicated that the superintendents perceived four attributes to be essential in their ability to be successful instructional leaders: (1) possession and articulation of an instructional vision; (2) the creation of an organizational structure that supports their instructional vision and leadership; (3) assessment and evaluation of personnel and instructional programs; and (4) organizational adaptation. By employing responses given by the superintendents and by scrutinizing their articulated roles, a preliminary model of perceived superintendent behaviors was constructed. To confirm perceptions, actions, and behaviors articulated by the superintendents, triangulation interviews were conducted with school principals and school board members in each of the participating districts. A 52-item questionnaire was also administered to every principal and school board member in these districts. The responses confirmed the articulated actions and behaviors of these superintendents in their promotion of the technical core of curriculum and instruction. (Author/RJM) Descriptors: *Administrator Effectiveness; Case Studies; Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; *Instructional Leadership; Leadership Qualities; Personnel Selection; *Superintendents Descriptive Terms: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association (San Diego, CA, April 13-17, 1998). Geographic Source: U.S.; Missouri ED421758 EA029148 Examining a Superintendent's Transformational Leadership: From the Model to Successful Practice. Author: Mullin, Ann G.; Keedy, John L. Availability: EDRS Price MF01/PC04 Plus Postage. Publication Date: April 1998 Language: English Pages: 86 Document Type: Reports--Research (143); Speeches/meeting papers (150) Journal Announcement: RIEJAN1999 Abstract: The superintendent, as a district-level influence, may have significant effect on second-order school change, yet there is little research on the behaviors of the superintendent in the context of second-order change. The purpose of this research was to study the transformational behaviors of a school district superintendent and the effects of those behaviors on selected principals and teachers. The findings of this qualitative case study operationalized transformational leadership in the behaviors of a superintendent leading a mid-sized public school district in North Carolina in the process of second-order change. Superintendent behavior categories clustered among three domains: (a) Articulating Professional Values and Beliefs; (b) Developing Problem Solving Skills; and (c) Developing a Collaborative Culture. Principal and teacher behavioral and affective outcomes related to these superintendent behaviors included changed administrative and teaching practices and improved student learning opportunities. Behavioral changes indicate the adoption of new norms. Transformational leadership, a relatively recent leadership construct, may have significant implications for school district leadership. Findings were generalized to Bass and Avolio's research on transformational leadership and Louis's development of district/school relationships. (Contains 68 references.) (Author) Descriptors: *Change Agents; Educational Administration; *Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; Instructional Leadership; *Leadership Qualities; Models; *Superintendents Identifiers: Interpretivism; *Second Order Effects Descriptive Terms: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association (San Diego, CA, April 13-17, 1998). Geographic Source: U.S.; North Carolina |