"The idea that people need to keep in mind is when people don't know what you do as a superintendent, they make up what you do as a superintendent," says Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, superintendent of the Fall Creek School District in Wisconsin.
"I'm talking to legislators, and what they're saying is that the state intends to take over the district, replacing the entire board and replacing the superintendent," Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said at a City Council meeting Wednesday morning. "I find that totally alarming."
A Parents Bill of Rights just introduced by House Republicans seeks to codify many freedoms that families already enjoy when it comes to their schools but could also whittle away at superintendents' decision-making power.
Superintendent Thomas Gates worries aged pipes and other infrastructure will make temporary fixes out of the new faucets, sinks, and filters installed in his Montana district.
This toolkit of well-tested talent management practices and innovative ideas will guide leaders in creating collaboration time, conducting empathy interviews and developing grow-your-own programs, among other solutions.
Despite a brighter outlook after three years of turbulence, superintendents are extremely concerned about staffing issues: "We're in a better place, but teacher shortages could stall progress."
Former Superintendent Baron Davis has not shared any details related to his departure, but resignations from neighboring districts indicate issues of political interference and school board tensions were at play.
State schools Superintendent Chris Reykdal is sounding the alarm that a declining birthrate and "perfect storm" of financial pressures could roil school district finances in years to come.
The mounting challenges principals face are producing some conflicting numbers: While 94% are generally satisfied with their job, half say stress is so high they might just change careers or retire.
"The County likes to say that they are focused on recruiting and retaining quality educators to provide the best learning experience for our students," a news release from the teachers union states. "What they've proposed, however, will only drive existing teachers away to higher paying counties — and does nothing to make Baltimore County attractive to new teachers."
