Date of Award
2010
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Educational Leadership
First Advisor
Boyd, Robert
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine what characteristics contribute to superintendent longevity in a school district for 10 years or more. A qualitative multiple case study was conducted using a sample from 11% of Indiana school superintendents who remained in their districts for 10 years or more. This random sample included superintendents from various districts. Superintendents interviewed responded to a series of five questions that explored the characteristics of community politics, size of the district, superintendent leadership characteristics, community demographics, and support systems. During the qualitative multiple case study, more questions arose as a result of the interview process and were documented. As a result of this study, it was determined that community politics, district size, certain characteristics of leadership styles, changing demographics, and sufficient support systems were integral parts of a superintendency that had these superintendents remaining in a district in Indiana for 10 years or more. The mutually, well-developed relationships created in the different characteristics between the superintendents, their boards, schools and community created a symbiotic relationship necessary for superintendent longevity in their respective districts.
Recommended Citation
Shand, Celia Herrell, "Stay the Course: Superintendent Longevity
in Indiana School Districts" (2010). All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3008.
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/etds/3008