These qualitative case studies give the prospective superintendent a real-life look at life on the other side of the district CEO's desk. Two dozen superintendents reflect upon their first challenges and growth opportunities that arose during that all-important first year. They tell it like it is, no sugar-coating. The experiences they listed, in each of the 13 chapters, are invaluable to new or beginning superintendents. This book is also helpful for the superintendent mentor as they assist new superintendents in being successful.