Abstract
Purpose of the study. This study sought to identify whether demographic factors including gender, size of district, years of experience, age of superintendent, type of district or type of community are factors in superintendent burnout. Three environmental factors were also investigated, including superintendent perception of isolation, perceived board support and perceived staff support. Methodology. The Burnout Assessment Inventory along with a survey was sent to 265 superintendents in California Public Schools. The superintendents in the sample were selected at random from a total eligible number of 849. One hundred ninety-eight usable surveys were returned for a rate of 74 percent. The data were analyzed to determine whether any of the variables were factors in perceived superintendent burnout. Findings. The six demographic variables showed no significance as factors relating to superintendent burnout. The three environmental variables of isolation, board support and staff support were significant factors in superintendent burnout. Recommendations for action. (1) Many superintendents are experiencing high levels of burnout. The role of the superintendent has been changing from manager to leader. With the new role come new stresses due to changed expectations. This often leaves superintendents feeling isolated and not supported. The professional associations of CSBA and ACSA must refocus their inservice programs to address the known causes of distress and burnout in superintendents. (2) Superintendents must continually seek ways in which to reduce the feelings of isolation and nonsupport. As feelings of isolation and nonsupport increase, it becomes more important that superintendents become involved in their professional associations, community organizations and attend conferences in order to maintain a healthy perspective on their role. (3) Wellness programs for reduction of the symptoms of stress and burnout must become part of every superintendent training program.