From Surviving to Thriving
Resources and Practical Strategies for New, Aspiring, and Veteran Superintendents
By RICHARD DROLET and ARMAND PIRES
Published June 2023
This book provides key actions and behaviors superintendents can use to be successful in their role. This text takes a topical approach, with each chapter dedicated to one key aspect of the superintendency. Included are simple, easy-to-implement strategies that serve as a guide to support the leadership and development of any aspiring, new, or veteran superintendent. Key elements of the superintendent role are included and expanded upon. Focused chapters include: superintendent and school board relations, instructional leadership, budget development, relationship building, personnel management, communication strategies, developing and accessing a network of support, and leading through crises. Each chapter articulates one critical area that should be mastered in order to flourish in the superintendency. This text is written and designed to be brief and easy to read for the busy superintendent. Each chapter offers specific advice, strategic approaches, dos and don'ts, and useful strategies to ensure the success of a school superintendent as we navigate the complexities of the role.
Rich Drolet, EdD, has served as Superintendent of Schools in Seekonk, Massachusetts, since 2018. Prior to becoming superintendent, he was a district-wide curriculum director, principal and assistant principal at the middle level, and teacher at the middle and elementary levels.
Armand Pires, PhD, has served as Superintendent of Schools in Medway, Massachusetts since 2015. Prior to this role he served as assistant superintendent, director of curriculum, principal and assistant principal at the middle and high school level, as well as a teacher at the middle and high school level.
Preface
Acknowledgements
Introduction
Chapter 1 - Welcome to the Superintendency
Chapter 2 - Keep the Focus on Kids!
Chapter 3 - Making New Friends
Chapter 4 - Show Me the Money!
Chapter 5 - Relationship Building
Chapter 6 - The Joys of Personnel Management
Chapter 7 - Hear Ye, Hear Ye!
Chapter 8 - I Need Help!
Chapter 9 - The Sky is Falling
Chapter 10 - Pulling It All Together
About the Authors
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