Hiring Processes in California of the Pre-K-12 Superintendency

• In Event: Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: Research on the Superintendency SIG

Abstract

In California women are underrepresented in the position of superintendent, yet are overrepresented in the field of education. The research questions for this study were (a) What are the processes used to hire superintendents? and (b) What are the processes when a woman is hired as superintendent? This research examined how organizational culture, including climate, structure, systems, sex stereotype, role congruity, and concept of fit are related to access, attainment, and selection to the superintendency. This mixed-method study was conducted sequentially by surveying school district board members and interviewing school district board members and consultants. Three themes identified in this study—(a) board relations, (b) the types of hiring processes, and (c) the use of a consultant—are also interrelated.

Authors

• Marcelline M. Guthrie, Mother Lode Union School District

• Susan M. Tracz, California State University - Fresno