The position of school superintendent arose a century ago in an educational system which, although public, was administratively separate from government. Today, social changes necessitate that a superintendent be involved in areas other than school policy. While fulfilling his myriad responsibilities, he must be a leader not only in the formation of school policy, but also in the community; he must have an adequate staff, particularly for research and experimentation; and his administration must be small enough to permit consultation with teachers on administrative matters, yet large enough to ensure varied programs. Personally he must be knowledgeable, possess the temperament of a leader, and believe that the "finest ideals of American life depend on the schools for their realization." The community must support educational leadership, especially during controversy, yet be willing to replace an inept or dictatorial superintendent. (LP)