In order for an educational institution to operate effectively, administrators must have the knowledge and expertise to effectively lead an organization to fulfill its goals and mission in delivering high quality education in every function and department within the organization. A school superintendent is at the top of the hierarchy of this system of administration, and superintendents work to effectively manage and drive improvements across policies, procedures, and delivery of education.
The Responsibilities of a Superintendent
Superintendents are responsible for many aspects of the operation of a school district. A key responsibility in this position is to manage and make decisions related to budgeting and allocation of funding. They often oversee grant applications and work with state legislators to designate those grants within the school district.
Superintendents are responsible for hiring, evaluating, terminating, and training employees in all buildings and positions, from support staff to principals to teachers, throughout a district.
Complaints from parents, students, teachers, and other staff members are also usually directed to the superintendent’s office, and conflict management and resolution are essential skills in handling these situations.
As the superintendent, the role of school representative is one that gives a district a face within the community. Superintendents not only handle the media, but they also represent districts at sporting events, school fundraisers, ceremonies, and all of the other events important to students, staff, parents, and the community.
Requirements of the Superintendent Position
Specific requirements for becoming a superintendent vary not just by district, but also by state regulations and guidelines. Many states require superintendent certification, and many districts require a specific amount of experience in teaching and/or other school administration positions such as assistant principal or principal.
For the vast majority of districts and superintendent positions, however, a candidate must have a minimum of a master’s degree in a related field. A master’s in education, education administration, or teaching and learning are examples of graduate degrees that qualify a candidate for consideration for a position as a superintendent.
Additionally, the master’s degree in one of these, or another related, field is typically a prerequisite for pursuing further education in doctoral or educational specialist degree programs. In some districts, one of these doctorates is required in order to lead the institution as a superintendent.
For additional information on superintendent certifications and other information, visit the AASA National Superintendent Association website.
Master’s Degree in Education
Within master’s of education programs, students are able to gain additional knowledge and skills through a variety of courses. Some examples of common core curriculum include the art of teaching, child and adolescent behavior, strategies for education, learning environment management, and assessment and evaluation.
Additionally, master’s of education programs often have specialization courses that can help to prepare future superintendents. Examples of specializations include teacher leadership, curriculum and instruction, and administration and supervision.
Gaining an understanding of how children, adolescents, and adults learn is essential for the foundation of all of the decisions a superintendent will make and policies they will implement. A master’s in education provides graduates with the expertise they will need in order to effectively manage an educational institution.
For more information on requirements for becoming a superintendent, see the U.S. Department of Education website .
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