The length of tenure of school superintendents declined during the 1970's and 1980's, perhaps because teachers, parents, politicians, students, community members, and board members do not always pursue courses of action that conform to the superintendent's carefully constructed plans. Superintendents can apply several strategies to enhance the survival of both their plans and their jobs. First, they should develop a vision of the school district's direction that they can share with everyone, that can be applied using practical procedures, and that will be related to the values of those in the district. Second, superintendents should establish their independence from politics by resisting compromises when educational principles are at stake. Third, superintendents should be able to read human behavior, assess attitudes, recognize when to abandon positions, and understand and adjust their conflict resolution styles. (PGD)