This phenomenological narrative study was designed to investigate superintendents' and school board presidents' perception related to the influence of school boards on school district performance. Participants were three superintendents and three school board presidents whose districts were recognized as met standards for the 2014-2015 academic school year. Data collection was from narrative responses to interview questions, which were later analyzed using template analysis. Findings from this study revealed the uniqueness and problematic system of governance and educating children in Texas school districts. More specifically, the paramount need for school boards and superintendents to collaboratively engage in the development of a clear vision, and direction for school district, as well as navigating robin hood that leave property rich school district poorer, and exacerbating the need for creative funding. These findings may be useful in steering school boards and superintendents toward strategies that increase their overall effectiveness. [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.]