"There Are No Schools for Superintendents": How Women Participate in School Leadership

This research study explored the experiences of five female K-12 superintendents located in the Intermountain West. This study used a qualitative research method in the form of one focus group and two one-on-one interviews. The research questions were: "What are the experiences of women who have or are serving in the role of superintendent in the Intermountain West?" and "What strategies did they employ when navigating this traditionally male-dominated leadership role?" Key findings included themes surrounding female superintendents' career pathways and education, work-life balance, and gendered experiences. Recommendations include working with local nonprofits and state boards of education to create awareness on the systematic issues that prevent women from participating in education leadership, evaluating, and implementing policy changes, and creating new ideas around leadership.