An Indiana superintendent outlines 12 cardinal rules for handling school board conflict. Superintendents should proceed cautiously, have a third party lead the charge or draw the fire, allow board members to fight their own battles, create a mirror with the facts, plan strategically, develop relationships with each board member, correct…

Rather than avoid stress, superintendents need to control and use it to their advantage. They should become familiar with the stress cycle, which progresses from stress traps through perceived stress, coping responses, and consequences (burnout). Superintendents can avoid burnout by focusing on important matters, confronting conflict positively,…

A superintendent who was nearly appointed New York City Schools chancellor explains the physical and mental stamina his job requires. Most school executives don't recognize job stresses leading to physical disorders, adverse effects on family life, and alcoholism. Since superintendents' demise usually centers on political/interpersonal conflicts,…