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A superintendent relies on a wide variety of skills in this role. First, outstanding interpersonal skills are vital for navigating the elements of interplay within this position. These education professionals have to be comfortable negotiating with the school board, glad-handing donors for financial support, and problem-solving within their teams and building coalitions.

Additionally, a superintendent could benefit from the following qualities:

• Strong leadership: District leadership isn’t for the faint of heart. Superintendents may often confront challenges and high-stakes decisions while mitigating needs on what may seem like a shoestring budget. Yes, that budget may be in the millions, but costs can add up quickly. Leaders must be able to make wise though difficult choices and lead in ways that construct infrastructures for solid work cultures that foster cohesive and supportive teams.
• Relationship-building: It’s been said that some students only learn (meaning they internalize knowledge and skills) after they believe their teacher cares about them. The same may be true with a superintendent. Stakeholders like to know their superintendent cares about them as people — and puts their needs first to establish mutual trust.
• Strategic thinking: Running a school district is certainly complex. Unfortunately, many districts operate on limited resources, and a savvy superintendent will appoint the appropriate staff to the appropriate roles to enact strategies that have the most impact — and to ensure their district is operating most effectively.

But, as mentioned, it goes back to having a solid vision — to being a visionary. Schools and their districts are continually evolving. The needs in their communities are also continually evolving. A skilled school superintendent must not only be able to lead a district with conviction to execute their vision, but also with flexibility and creativity to adapt to new technologies and address the challenges of an ever-changing educational landscape.

Positions a superintendent might hold prior to obtaining their position, in which they might specifically learn the above-mentioned skills, include working in education as a teacher, in education administration or in general management roles.

When it comes to education and which degrees you may need, the requirements vary by state and even by district.

Most require an advanced degree, such as a master’s degree or, in very specific districts, potentially a Doctor of Education (EdD), to ensure a strong foundation in such skills as problem-solving, analytical thinking, decision-making and leadership strategy.

In addition to advanced education, aspiring superintendents must gain relevant experience, often in the classroom, as well as any licensure or credentialing required by the state or district where they wish to work. 

While the path to become a school superintendent doesn’t necessarily have to look the same for everyone, there are a few key steps, . First, they must successfully complete their education and earn a bachelor’s degree and usually a master’s, although a doctorate is often preferred in the role of school superintendent.

Aspiring superintendents also need adequate work experience to develop the skills, like strategic decision-making and communication, that will help them in this role. They may acquire this experience as a teacher or administrator over the course of their careers, and they must hold the necessary licensure to work in those roles.

Finally, superintendents must hold an administrator credential as outlined by the state in which they wish to work. Earning this credential may depend (at least in part) on their work experience and previous licensure.