This research study explored the perceptions of practicing Illinois superintendents regarding the efficacy of the work they do as a superintendent related to their experience in a superintendent preparation program. Although a multitude of research studies have been completed for both teacher and principal preparation programs, very little research has been conducted regarding superintendent preparation. The following research questions were answered in this study: (1) According to perceptions of practicing Illinois superintendents, what are their perceptions of the value of their college program preparedness in relation to the efficacy of their superintendency? (2) According to perceptions of practicing Illinois superintendents, what are their perceptions of the value of an internship in relation to the efficacy of their superintendency? (3) According to perceptions of practicing Illinois superintendents, what are their perceptions of the value of mentoring in relation to the efficacy of their superintendency? (4) What are the implications of this research to the field of educational leadership and the associations that are committed to the development of superintendent efficacy? The results of this study are conclusive that preparation programming for superintendents must reform to include a different balance of coursework and experience proportional to the tasks of the position of superintendency. Additionally, this research has established a theme that shows that preparation programs are deficient in several areas based on the needs articulated by the participating superintendents in this study. Specifically these deficiencies exist in political leadership training, pragmatic experience (internship) and in differentiating the superintendent preparation based on the size, type and location of school district. While internship provides the vehicle for gaining the necessary pragmatic experiences, mentorship, via mindfully pairing mentors with superintendents by context, also provides an exemplary opportunity to develop a network of expert support. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]