A concise and accessible text, The Superintendentâ??s Rulebook explores the human resource, political, and leadership dimensions of the superintendency.

A concise and accessible text, The Superintendent's Rulebook explores the human-resource, political, and leadership dimensions of the superintendency. This important book is designed for new aspiring superintendents and Boards of Education, helping readers to apply the many leadership lessons taught in training programs and education leadership courses to their everyday practice. Full of real-world examples, takeaway strategies, and supplemented with discussion and "inbox" questions, this valuable resource encourages reflection, while capturing the day-to-day spirit and complexities of district-level leadership.

"The role of the superintendent is multi-faceted and probably more complicated now than ever before. The good news is that they now have a rulebook! Patrick Sweeney provides leaders with rules to live by and learn from, and having been in the role for many years, he understands the life of a superintendent better than most."Peter DeWitt, Consultant and Author of "Education Week" blog Finding Common Ground "The Superintendent's Rulebook is a must read for anyone who works in public education. Not only does it provide valuable information to those thinking about the superintendency as a career, but it also provides insight into the day-to-day thinking of a school superintendent. In this day and age, when understanding each other is so vital, the book provides a blueprint to understand the complex job of school superintendent."Charles S. Dedrick, Executive Director, New York State Council of School Superintendents"Darfler-Sweeney connects with readers by providing personal information. At times, it seems as if one is sitting down with a mentor for a cup of coffee. Wherever district leaders may be in the sojourn toward the superintendency, this book offers reasonable insight into the challenges that are likely to be faced."Lisa M. Antunes, assistant superintendent, Hillsborough Township School District, Hillsborough, N.J., School Administrator magazine