This is a must-read for current superintendents or anyone who one day would like to step into that seat. I love the fact that it highlights everything from establishing relationships with board members, to navigating employee issues, to managing a budget, to the day-to-day complex decision making that defines the superintendency. To use an analogy from my coaching days, this is the playbook you should follow.

Dr. Walter Gonsoulin, 2025 AASA National Superintendent of the Year

Derrick Jordan and Dionne McLaughlin's book is a poignant reminder that while knowledge from college course lectures and in-box simulations are important preparation activities for future superintendents, wisdom gained from actual practice is much scarcer and always in short supply. They also are mindful that experience alone is no guarantee that next time better decisions will be made. That only happens when there is reflection, self-examination, and listening to critical friends. The authors are experienced former school administrators with humor, grace, and bruises to qualify as seasoned models and mentors. Their voices have authority, credibility and humility. With them you will always be in good company.

Fenwick W. English, professor and Associate Dean, College of Education, Florida Gulf Coast University

Jordan and McLaughlin provide a comprehensive and accessible guidebook for anyone aspiring to the superintendency - or who already is a superintendent. The honest portrayal of the challenges - and opportunities - facing district leaders makes this a must have for both public school leaders and those preparing them in higher education. This book will help students of educational leadership understand the complexities of district leadership and will help aspiring or current superintendents to make sense of it all. Ultimately, this book will help educational leaders support and advance their students and school communities.

Dr. Mónica Byrne-Jiménez, Executive Director, University Council for Educational Administration