School Superintendent

School Superintendent Overview

Superintendents are administrators who oversee and review the management and educational practices of an entire district’s schools or a specific educational institution. Individuals in this field must set the tone and mission statement of their schools. People who enjoy being in leadership roles and who have a talent for inspiring those they work with may enjoy a career as a superintendent.

The biggest responsibility of any superintendent is the annual budget, which must be approved by a school board or board of trustees. A clear understanding of math and financial planning is of key importance to success in this field. Unlike most other jobs in the field of education, there is very little dealing with students on a day to day basis when working as a superintendent. In this high administrative role, most interactions will be with the faculty and staff.

Another major responsibility for superintendents is maintaining relationships with the school board or board of trustees that he advises. These associations can be stressful at times, but it is the lifeblood of the school system.

School Superintendent Education & Training

School superintendents must be well qualified educational professionals. They are the functional equivalent to the CEO of a school district, and they must have the academic qualifications to hold the position. Superintendents usually earn a bachelor’s degree in some liberal arts discipline – the focus is not particularly important, as further degrees are almost inevitable. Any discipline that stresses critical thinking and writing will provide a good background for a superintendent. Most superintendents have earned an advanced degree such as a master’s or Ph.D. in education or teaching. Classroom teaching and hands on education experience are also essential for a qualified superintendent. Five years of experience is considered the bare minimum for most superintendents.

There are many continuing education and certification programs that a superintendent can pursue to increase his earning potential.

School Superintendent Career & Salary Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, education as a whole is expected to grow much faster than most other careers through 2016. Like most professions, advanced education can make any candidate more competitive in the job market. Although availability of employment in the field is expected to increase, the number of educational specialists is also expected to increase apace, so the best qualified candidates will have the best luck.

School superintendents in the United States make a median of $74,733 annually, with the top earners making more than $91,949. Most superintendents are also given handsome benefits packages, including health insurance, dental insurance, and retirement or pension options. These benefits may also include some sort of tuition reimbursement or enrollment in advanced degree programs to improve a superintendent’s qualifications.