Public education in the 21st century is faced with many difficult challenges. The first and probably most common issue is related to finance. As the economy continues to worsen, school districts are forced to find new revenue streams while at the same time reducing expenditures. In the current economic climate, it is becoming more difficult for school districts to pass levies for new monies. Perhaps one of the most feasible solutions would be to reduce spending. The concept of outsourcing appears to be piquing the interest of school districts nationwide as a means to reduce expenditures. The idea of outsourcing is not new, and nor is it a topic that is devoid of controversy. Outsourcing is often viewed by unions and certain community members as being a threat to their livelihoods. This study examined school districts in the United States that rank in the top 5% in academic performance. More specifically, this study sought to determine if superintendents of these top ranking districts displayed what Collins (2001) described as Level Five leadership characteristics. Furthermore, have these leaders identified the Hedgehog Concept of student academic achievement as being their main priority? A review of various leadership theories is presented along with some of the major legislative reforms from past century. The review of leadership provides the reader some insight into the various components of leadership that are necessary to bring about positive and lasting change. The legislative review illustrates the urgency for school districts to perform at high levels or face dire consequences. With the added demands placed on the modern superintendent, it behooves these leaders to eliminate or minimize functions that are not directly related to their districts' Hedgehog Concept of student academic achievement. The study shows that a large portion of successful public schools do practice outsourcing. Other findings include evidence that superintendents of these top ranking districts displayed what Collins (2001a) described as Level Five leadership characteristics. Additionally, the findings indicate that achieving the districts' Hedgehog Concept of high levels of student academic achievement is aided by outsourcing functions that are not directly related to continuously improving student performance. [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.]