Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to expand the knowledge base regarding political conflict in the superintendency. This study replicated a study conducted in Northern California by Kari Fisher/Gibson, Ed.D. (2004). Eighteen superintendents in Southern California, identified as politically astute by an expert panel, participated in an interview using the interview questions from Fisher/Gibson's study. The questions were designed to provide greater understanding of the politically charged situations experienced by superintendents, characteristics of politically charged situations, effective political conflict management strategies and the outcomes of successfully managed political conflict. In addition, the results of the current and prior studies were compared. Methodology. The study used a descriptive, multiple case study design. The sample population was eighteen public school superintendents in Southern California, nominated by an expert panel as being politically astute. The nominated superintendents participated in a four-question interview. Key findings. The findings revealed: (1) superintendents encounter many political charged situations in their job role; (2) extreme or polarized positions are characteristic of politically charged situations; (3) effective strategies to manage political conflict include listening and making the other person/group feel heard, building relationships and committee processes; (4) outcomes of successfully managed political conflict include the cessation of complaints, and resolutions consistent with personal and organizational values; and (5) the conflict situations, strategies for conflict management and outcomes are similar for both superintendents in Northern and Southern California. Conclusions. In conclusion, (1) superintendents encounter many politically charged situations; (2) building relationships and utilizing interpersonal skills are important in managing political conflict; and (3) politically astute superintendents utilize personal and organizational values to determine workable solutions to conflict. Recommendations. An expansion of this study to include all superintendents in California to further expand the knowledge base regarding political conflict. A case study examining the conflict management strategies and outcomes of politically charged situations common to districts would provide valuable information for current and aspiring superintendents. A study examining the effect of program improvement sanctions under No Child Left Behind, examining parent perceptions of school effectiveness, would be helpful for superintendents in managing potential political conflict on this issue.