Superintendents content, but stressed
0707 -- A majority of superintendents like their job, even though it can be stressful, the American Association of School Administrators reports.
According to The State of the American Superintendency, 81 percent of superintendents characterize their job as “rewarding” or “very rewarding,” 84 said they would make the same career choice again, 90 percent said they are satisfied with their job, and 83 percent are satisfied with their compensation.
But 59 percent said the stress related to the job is “considerable” or “great.”
Thirty-four percent said the biggest factor motivating them to become superintendents was the desire to have a greater impact on student achievement.
Twenty-four percent said it was the desire to be in leadership, 17 percent cited interest in the work, and 10 percent said they were motivated by a commitment to public education.
When asked about the factors inhibiting their effectiveness, 29 percent cited inadequate financing of schools, 19 percents said too many insignificant demands, 15 percent cited state and federal mandates, and 13 percent cited the board of education.
Ninety-two percent of superintendents said their relationship with the school board is good or very good. Seventy-five percent said they spend less than five hours a week in direct communication with board members, and 20 percent spend six to 10 hours a week.
Only 1 percent of superintendents said the No Child Left Behind law has had a very beneficial impact on public education, 26 percent said the law is at least somewhat beneficial, and 74 percent said it was at least somewhat detrimental.
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