For new K–12 superintendents, the first 100 days are critical to ensuring a smooth, effective, successful transition into a new district. And never has that been more challenging than today.
Of course, the daily demands placed on K–12 superintendents have never been light or easy. But after two years of nonstop crisis management, as many as 25% of superintendents are expected to leave their jobs at the end of the 2021-2022 school year. Now, the leaders stepping into their shoes will grapple with many of the same challenges as their predecessors: Ongoing stress and strain related to the COVID-19 pandemic, staffing shortages, student mental health and safety concerns, budget planning, and increased politization and polarization. And they’ll do it all while still trying to establish themselves in and learn about their new communities.
Facing so many challenges, how can new superintendents make the most of their first 100 days?
