The purpose of the study was to refine a method to identify critical tasks and administrative behaviors utilized to effectively administer a specialized program in smaller school districts. Vocational education was the special program investigated. Data were gathered by personal interviews with 72 superintendents and a composite of 85 high school principals, vocational teachers, and counselors. Twenty-four critical tasks were identified; however, superintendents and their subordinates disagreed on the administrative behaviors employed for task accomplishment. Major implications are evidenced for improved preparation and inservice programs for superintendents facing greater emphasis on specialization of school programs. (Author)