Miles to Go Before I Sleep: An Ethnography of Multidistrict Superintendency

• In Event: Research on the Superintendency and Leadership: Paper Session

Abstract

Over the past decade, multiple states have proposed or implemented regional school district consolidation. Some states centralized school governance into multi-district unions, which combines individual school districts and their respective school boards into a regional union overseen by a superintendent and a composite, central school board. Although multi-district unions are perceived to save money by streamlining administration, little research has been conducted to understand the role and work of multi-district superintendents. This qualitative study addresses the lack of research on multi-district governance by combining ethnographic research with detailed time records from a multi-district superintendent. The study examines the superintendent’s time and role allocation, and offers recommendations for educational leaders and policymakers.

Authors

• Erin McHenry-Sorber, West Virginia University

• Daniella Hall, Northwestern University