Tom Kersten has succinctly captured the essential elements of not only making the personal assessment of whether to assume the superintendency, but has also fairly laid out the requisite dimensions of successful leadership from relationships to personnel, finance and decision-making. This book is a very solid read for any administrator giving consideration to or in the process of 'Moving into the Superintendency.'

Brent Clark, executive director, Illinois Association of School Administrators

Accepting the position of superintendent is an awesome responsibility that requires administrators to make important decisions while learning on the job! Dr. Tom Kersten made the work of being a superintendent much easier by providing a compilation of practical ideas on key aspects of being a successful superintendent. While it is a great resource for administrators new to the position, it is also a great reference for veteran superintendents. Moving into the Superintendency: How to Succeed in Making the Transition offers many practical tips and ideas from a veteran, trusted colleague. A quick read that provides valuable information for all superintendents.

Don White, superintendent, Troy CCSD 30-C, Joliet, Illinois

Moving into the Superintendency: How to Succeed in Making the Transition is a must read for anyone contemplating the position of superintendent of schools. Dr. Kersten has clearly laid out significant issues anyone considering the superintendency must consider. This easy to read, but comprehensively constructed dialogue will give any superintendent candidate great insights and much to consider about the issues superintendents face before starting to build a foundation for success in superintendency.

Joseph Pacha, former superintendent; current associate professor and assistant chairperson, Educational Administration and Foundations Department, Illinois State University

Kersten’s book is really a manual. Its well-conceived structure aids in usability, with each chapter presenting a specific introduction to a topic, such as how to work effectively with school boards, followed by several strategies to accomplish this. The author focuses on building relationships inside and outside the system and managing fiscal resources.

Moving into the Superintendency concisely addresses the perils and pitfalls of the chief school executive in the view of a practitioner who combines research and practice as guidance to aspirants to the top role in our profession.

School Administrator