In order to identify factors enabling superintendents to maintain their position, this study examines characteristics of superintendents serving in the same Oklahoma rural school districts for 12 years or more, a tenure longer than the national average of 5 years. Twenty-four superintendents were identified and interviewed by telephone. Data covered three main areas: (1) demographic information; (2) information about the school board; and (3) professional information about the superintendents. All the superintendents were male, most were married and had children. The average length of service as superintendent in the district was 18 years. School board members had diverse occupations and most ran for the board due to their interest in children. Major issues reported were school reform and finances. Open communication was reported as the key to superintendent success. This research provides a limited look at why these superintendents have managed to stay in one school district for a relatively lengthy tenure. More research is needed on the topic of long-term superintendents. Interview questions were listed in the appendix. (LP)