The superintendent is a crucial determinant in the performance of a district's professional staff. A good working relationship between the board and the superintendent is essential; they must realize they are, respectively, the lay members and the professional member of the same team. The superintendent is responsible for informing the board, acting on its decisions, initiating the formation of new policy and the review of old policy, implementing policy, and directing and coordinating the broad aspects of personnel, finance, curriculum, pupil services, building and grounds operation, transportation, and public relations. In addition, he or she must be the model for other administrators in the district. The most important part of a superintendent's job is knowing how to make effective use of staff, including choosing good staff, trusting and delegating to them, holding them accountable, and giving them credit for their accomplishments. Paramount to the success of public education today is the ability of the superintendent to communicate--with all the publics in the district, with the board, with staff, and with students. Newsletters help in this effort. The news media must be treated as an ally. In sum, the quality of the school district is a reflection of the superintendent of schools. (Author/JM)