Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to identify and describe the roles and responsibilities of the superintendent/principal in small, rural school districts in northern California perceived to be the most important by the superintendent/principal. In addition, it was the purpose of this study to identify the challenges of serving as the superintendent/principal. Additionally, it was the purpose of this study to identify changes in the role and responsibilities as perceived as most important by superintendent/principal. Methodology. Subjects for this study were superintendent/principals currently working in small, rural school districts located in northern California. The research methodology was a two-staged, mixed-methods descriptive analysis. Ninety-five superintendent/principals participated in an online survey providing quantitative data. Fifteen respondents from the online survey participated in a follow-up telephone interview, which provided qualitative data. Findings. Managing and allocating resources, communication and collaboration with other stakeholders, building trusting and supportive relationships, and establishing a presence within the community were all perceived as important by superintendent/principals. Secondly, inadequate funding and budget development were perceived as the most challenging aspects of the position. Lastly, superintendent/principals indicated a need for assistance with their duties and responsibilities, more time to accomplish tasks, doing away with some state-mandated forms and requirements, and having additional funding and/or more financial flexibility in spending. Conclusion. Superintendent/principals make priority decisions related to which duties to perform, thus forcing them to leave some duties undone; struggle with often not accomplishing all aspects of the position; possess a unique set of skills that requires a knowledge of all aspects of district and site administration; and must build strong, trusting relationships within highly politically charged environments. Recommendations. It is recommended that superintendent/principals continually monitor and prioritize their duties and responsibilities to determine which ones are necessities; allot appropriate time to perform those duties and responsibilities; local boards create realistic job descriptions; and because this position cannot often be performed effectively and efficiently without additional support staff, local community leaders, school boards, and other stakeholders must explore the viability of maintaining this position as the only administrative position within the district and explore the possibility of consolidation with other neighboring school districts.