A School District's Search for a New Superintendent

Abstract

This study explores the process one school district employed in its search for, and selection of, a new superintendent. The research design is a single site case study using qualitative methods. Data collection techniques include observation in the form of “shadowing” a search consultant, document analysis and open-ended interviews of key informants. The study found that, while professional credentials are important in the initial stages of the search, personal attributes prove critical in the eventual “match” of candidate to school district. The “human connection” is a strong determinant of a candidate's success or failure in advancing in the search process. The search consultant, employed by the school district, acts as gatekeeper of the process, its people, and all pertinent information. The struggle between a candidate's privacy and the public's right to know is a central focus in this case. In effect, both candidate and board circumvent the laws protecting personal privacy in employment practices. The search for a new superintendent is people-centered in every convoluted layer of the process.