This phenomenological narrative study examined the effects of the Eagle Ford Shale development upon public school superintendent leadership experiences during the boom phase of the energy industry expansion. The four research questions investigated the shale development's influence on experiences in the areas of instruction, finance and operations, community relations, and board relations and governance. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews between the researcher and each of 10 superintendents. While both beneficial and challenging experiences occur, findings from this study suggest that the challenges transpire to a greater extent. Implications for practice include prompt strategic planning in response to the instructional, financial, and operational influences on the district. In addition, leaders need to prepare for the eventual bust that occurs following the boom. Finally, a strong commitment to communication with the board, the community, and legislators is recommended. The research in this study provides superintendents with strategies to effectively respond to the boom situation of shale energy development. [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.]