The CEO of a school district works as a school superintendent. They are responsible for both the success and failure of the school district. Their role is extensive and all-encompassing. It is a rewarding job, but they have to make tough and taxing decisions. Exceptional skills are required to function as an effective superintendent.
To carry out their tasks, they have to deal directly with people. They have to build appropriate relationships to discharge their duties efficiently. Superintendents should be capable leaders who have a good rapport with interest groups within the community and the school.
Engage with the Board of Education
The board hires the superintendent. They have to work in partnership with them. If they work together in harmony, there are more chances of achieving success in the school district.
The superintendent has to inform the board about all the things that take place in their school district. They also make suitable recommendations for improvements. The school board evaluates the superintendent and can terminate their job if they do not work efficiently.
Superintendents have the responsibility of preparing agendas for board meetings. They can attend the meetings and make recommendations. However, they do not have the chance to vote. In case the board is in favor of a mandate, superintendents have to carry it out.
Be a Good District Leader
In large districts, superintendents have assistant superintendents. They assist them in specific areas like curriculum and transportation. But in small school districts, the superintendents may not enjoy this luxury. They have to carry out the daily duties on their own.
Superintendents are responsible for assessing the principals and assistant principals. They have to meet with the principals regularly and give suitable instructions regarding their buildings’ daily operations.
If they like, they can have direct interaction with the teachers and coaches. They can also make recommendations for hiring or terminating the services of a particular teacher. Superintendents have the responsibility to appoint capable and trustworthy support personnel.
Take Care of the Finances
The duty of developing and maintaining an appropriate school budget lies on the shoulders of the superintendent. School finances keep changing every year. So this is a complex task, especially in public schools where the availability of money depends on the economy.
Look After the Daily Operations
The superintendent has to decide whether to repair a school building or add new structures to it. They have to ensure that the curriculum meets district, state, and national standards. They must review old policies and revise them or write new ones.
Lobby for their District
They have to look for ways of improving their district. Superintendents must maintain good relations with the community and media. They should use the media to further the interests of the school district and students. They should also connect with the other school districts and exchange ideas for improvement.
