Good Governance and the Influence of the Superintendent

Challenges, their impact, and the role of superintendent leadership in navigating effective governance practices

While there is a link between the work of school boards and positive outcomes for K12 students, some elected boards and superintendents continue to struggle with effective governance practices, a dynamic which can contribute to diminished public confidence.

This article explores the most common challenges, their impact, and the role of superintendent leadership in navigating them. The authors conducted personal interviews with current and former superintendents and school board members, observed board meetings, and reviewed the literature on school board effectiveness.

Through this work, they determined superintendents must focus on being lead “influencers” of good governance among both board members and the public. They offer proactive strategies for superintendents—and those seeking the superintendency—to consider. This article asserts that influencer superintendents can increase board effectiveness, public confidence, and expectations for effective democratic governance by building trust and better school board practices.