What Qualities Make a Great Superintendent of Schools?

by | May 8, 2017 | K-12, School Administrator

A superintendent, when you get right down to it, is the CEO of a school district. Not only are they responsible for supervising and hiring other administrators, they also choose who will be the chief financial officer as well as who is hired to become the school principals. Although the superintendent is responsible for what happens within a school district, they are still answerable to the board of trustees. However, unlike principals and teachers, a superintendent isn’t hired, they’re elected into the position. So, what are the qualities that make for a great superintendent of a school district?

As a superintendent, you must answer to the demands of all of the other constituencies within your district. When it comes right down to it it’s seemingly the community at large. In the end, you’re guided by one question. What is best for all of the students?

1. Vision

A clear vision of what needs to be done for the good of the district is part of being a great superintendent. Setting the vision, objectives, and goals for your district is a must; as is seeing those goals achieved.

2. Leadership

Your goal is to make sure that the students in your district are learning and achieving at a high level. A great superintendent is knowledgeable about the best practices for maximizing the achievements of their students as well as giving support to the teachers in their district.

3. Listening & Communicating

Being a great communicator and listener is among the list of things that makes an excellent superintendent. You must take in all the differing viewpoints as well as communicate the needs and accomplishments of the district. This may mean communication with media, school events, public meetings, and even through written reports.

These are just a few of the things that make for a great superintendent. The job isn’t an easy one but by and far it gives the community a great sense of self when it comes to their schools, students, and accomplishments. When one takes on the responsibilities of an entire district, the results can be highly rewarding.

 

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