The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of successful small-school superintendents in regard to maintaining or improving district efficiency and financial status. This investigation sought to reveal superintendent practices that serve to maximize district revenues and improve operating efficiency. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with seven small-school superintendents in this qualitative phenomenological study which utilized narrative inquiry. The findings revealed perceptions and practices that highly effective superintendents have in common. Recurring themes included a perception that there is a financial disadvantage for small schools operating within communities which have little industry and low property wealth, a perception that there are some specific management practices that can help to increase revenues and streamline expenditures, and finally, a perception that stakeholders should play an important role in these matters through decision-making processes and daily practices. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]