Slowing the Churn: What’s Really Behind Superintendent Turnover in Ellington City School District?

This case describes the atypically high churn rate of superintendents in Ellington City School District from 2011 to 2022. The case explores the tenures and controversies of four superintendents: Norris, Larkin, Martinez, and Hall (all pseudonyms). Detailing allegations of employee mistreatment, racism, sexism, and school board secrecy, this case raises several questions: How does a superintendent or school board address racial tension in a school district? What factors hinder superintendents from leading effectively? What is the role of the school board, and how are board members held accountable for their actions?