This paper presents findings of a study that examined the leadership practices of women superintendents to determine if their practices fit a new paradigm of administrative leadership. Data collection included: (1) telephone interviews with 30 rural and 21 urban female superintendents across the United States, and (2) completion of the Leadership Practices Inventory-Self questionnaire by 174 out of 249 women superintendents (a 70 percent response rate). The interviews indicated that most of the urban and rural superintendents were hired to be agents of change and that the women viewed their leadership qualities in the same way. Whether in a highly bureaucratic, urban organization or in a small rural setting, these women superintendents were successful at building collegial organizations. Both urban and rural respondents used leadership skills that fit a new paradigm, which values change and connectiveness. Overall, they enjoyed the human relations part of their job. One table is included. Contains 21 references. (LMI)