Sustaining The Superintendency Through Adaptive Induction Programming

• In Event: The Future of School Districts and the Superintendency: Issues of Governance, Restructuring, Induction, and Technology

Abstract

Research informed induction programming is sustaining the superintendency in several North American school systems. Our three-year, mixed method study traces the adaptive program adjustments fostering the early success of superintendents in 26 such districts. The pragmatic, action-oriented inquiry outlined in this paper assesses, informs and refines the evolution of a New Superintendent Induction Program established in 2009. The assessment for learning focuses on the individual and collective capacity building through nuanced application of A Practice Standard (2008) and the A Framework of School System Success (2009). Data gathered and analyzed through three years of surveys, focus groups, interviews, documents and participant stories are being used to shape future new superintendency induction programming – an example of leadership research in action.

Authors

• Jim Brandon, University of Calgary

• Kath Rhyason, College of Alberta School Superintendents

• Paulette Hanna, College of Alberta School Superintendents