Superintendent Shortage: The Wrong Problem and Wrong Solutions

Abstract

Claims of an insufficient supply of superintendents and conclusions about the underlying causes of this condition have been widely accepted by policymakers, professors, and practitioners. As a result, professional preparation and licensure have already been altered in some states. Economist perspectives of occupational shortages, the causes of dwindling applicant pools, and job turnover and exits are used to demonstrate that this problem has been framed incorrectly—an error spawning questionable policy decisions. The argument is made that the long-standing practice of overproducing administrators and then allowing employers to determine competence is not indicative of a true profession. Recommendations are made to strengthen preparation and licensing requirements and to improve working conditions and salaries.

Women and the Superintendency: Insights From Theory and History

“…But the issue of whether nationwide superintendent shortages are real or manufactured is contested (Bjork, 2000;Bjork & Keedy, 2003a;Grogan, 1999). Its contributors' data more clearly support the former (myth) than the latter (Bjork & Keedy, 2003a;Fusarelli, Cooper, & Carella, 2003;Glass & Bjork, 2003;Kowalski, 2003). (Bjork & Keedy, 2003b).…”

The School Superintendent: Theory, Practice, and Cases

“…Arguably, the most widely accepted rationale for eliminating or attenuating state licensing is an inadequate supply of superintendents. Authors making this claim have commonly cited two conditions: declining size of applicant pools and an increasing level of position instability (Kowalski, 2003b). Data supporting declining applicant pools have come primarily from survey research conducted with superintendents (e.g., Cooper, Fusarelli, & Carella, 2000;Cunningham & Burdick, 1999), search consultants (e.g., Glass, 2001b;O'Connell, 2000;Rohn, 2001), state superintendents and association directors (e.g., Glass, 2001a), and school board members (e.g., Cox & Malone, 2001;Rohn, 2001).…”

The Reality and Myth of the Superintendent Shortage: Implications for Research and Educational Policy

“…This offers more opportunity for the kind of collaboration between practitioners and university professors, which the literature currently advocates. Superintendent preparation, in particular, benefits greatly from incombent superintendents' invoJvement in programs designed to move away from the traditional static classroom delivery that has been criticized Kowalski, 2003). One of the best avenues for professional development has always been found in teaching opportunities-superintendents who are involved in the preparation of future superintendents gain energy and renewed enthusiasm for their work by helping to prepare others to step into the role (see Tingley, 2002).…”