Before retiring and joining the Navitas team, I spent 28 years in some form of education. I taught and coached in college before moving into public education.
I spent seven years as a teacher before moving into administration. I then spent 13 years as a building level administrator before taking on the role of superintendent at Orrick School District for four years.
As I look back, I often wished that someone had told me more about what to expect once I became a school superintendent. Many new superintendents have reached out to me asking for advice, so I thought I would share some insights.
Here are 11 things that I wish I would have known (or knew more about) before taking on the role of superintendent.
- Always expect the unexpected. Understand that you can never fully prepare for the position, because something new will always come up.
- Known more about construction, facility maintenance, and the financing that goes along with an improvement project. Ask lot of questions of your partner firms. They are more than happy to educate you about these topics.
- Known more about school finance, especially federal funding like Special Education, Title and REAP. These are complicated funding mechanisms, but you’ve got to know them.
- Make sure to understand what the goals of the board and community are for the district and understand that some people will have hidden agendas! Also know what the sacred cows are!
- Unless you grew up in that district, you are NOT from that district. No matter how long you live and work in the community, you will never be one of their own!
- Know who the main stakeholders are and befriend them quickly! Learn who the power players are in the school and in the community!
- Understand the political climate of the district. It is unfortunate, but nowadays school curriculum has become a hot political topic, especially since the start of the pandemic.
- Make sure to take care of yourself and your family! Remember that you are only human. Make sure to leave the work at work and do not bring it home! I know this is easier said than done but make you and your family a priority!
- Give yourself time to make the right decisions. Unlike in building administration, you have a month or two (sometimes even a little longer) to make the right decision. Give yourself time to think things over.
- Talk to other superintendents and ask questions. They were once in your shoes and will know a lot more than you and can give great advice!
- Don’t be afraid to make the right decision! No matter what you do, you will make people mad. So always try to do what is best for students and staff of the district. You will sleep better at night!
Being a school superintendent in today’s environment is challenging, so remember to build a good support system and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
About the author – Scott Archibald is an Education Consultant with Navitas. His background as a school administrator and 28 years of experience in the education sector help him bring a practical approach to developing strategies for school districts wanting guidance on how to initiate an energy conservation program in their facilities. He can be reached at sarchibald@navitas.us.com.