Faced with a late-season superintendent search, many districts defer the formal search-and-hire process and entice a senior administrator or former superintendent to serve a one- or two-year stint. One appealing alternative is an abbreviated search. Boards should advertise immediately and efficiently, develop their own criteria, recruit…

New college presidents are often placed in untenable situations, asked to make necessary changes while remaining feasible with constituencies having vested interests in the status quo and power to maintain it. It may be better for the governing board to appoint an interim president to establish a basis for stability. (MSE)

If a superintendent resigns, school boards should consider hiring a retired outside superintendent during the interim period. Advantages include relief from the pressure to replace the outgoing superintendent, proven expertise, "free" outside consultation, a smoother transition, and avoidance of conflict. An on-staff interim chief can be…