The relevance of administrative preparation programs has been questioned. The questions center around how well programs are preparing school leaders to deal with the myriad of requirements placed in front of them (i.e. demands relate to issues of accountability, changing demographics, aging professionals, demanding publics, and school board/superintendent relations) while inspiring people to focus on a shared vision. Given the concerns, one administrative preparation program developed a new model for superintendent preparation. Key components included (a) extensive practitioner involvement, (b) the use of standards as the foundation, (c) a relevant and varied year-long field internship, and (d) the use of university and K-12 partnerships. The model addresses the criticism of current preparation programs and addresses the necessary entry level skills needed by 21st century superintendents.
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