Gender Dynamics in the Rural Superintendency: Lessons Learned From Long-Serving Superintendents

• In Event: Sunday Roundtable Session 3:05 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Research on the Superintendency SIG Roundtable: Competencies, Experiences, Gender, and Longevity (Table 16)

Abstract

Superintendents are critical to the functioning of America’s public schools. The stress of the public scrutiny and the multiple roles of this position contribute to a high turnover rate for all superintendents. The position is more stressful and the turnover rate is greater in rural districts. Interviews were conducted with 14 rural superintendents from Idaho and Michigan who have served a single rural district for nine or more years (more than three times the national average for rural superintendents). Key themes that emerged from the lived experiences of long-tenure rural superintendents included additional challenges of women superintendents countering gender bias. This study provides insight into the factors that contribute rural superintendent retention and generates knowledge to promote superintendent longevity.

Authors

• J. Wilfred Cwikiel, Beaver Island Community School

• Heather P. Williams, Boise State University