According to the literature, school districts are becoming increasingly political and complex. For superintendents to be successful in this environment they must exhibit great political skills in order to maintain positive working relationships with their boards of education. Thus, this study aimed to identify political skills that superintendents needed as well as where best to acquire them. This study was based on a mixed method rational that used two types of instruments: online surveys and one-on-one interviews. The study received online survey responses from 60% (18/30) of board members and 57% (17/30) of superintendents in Southern California. In addition, 7 board members and 6 superintendents participated in one-on-one interviews. Preliminary findings were then reviewed by 6 out-of-state superintendents for reliability, validity and generalization. Findings from the study showed that communication and interpersonal skills were the most important political skills perceived by all respondent groups. While skills such as superintendent flexibility and adaptability, team building, establishing a clear vision, being visible and accessible, and advocating for public education also scored high, communication and interpersonal skills were the only two skills that were strongly stressed during one-on-one interviews and reemphasized by out-of-state superintendents. Finally, all respondents agreed that the best place for superintendents to acquire these skills were through experience based learning and mentors. Hence, aspiring and current superintendents should consider developments from study to foster better working relationships with their boards of education. [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/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]