This manual is a resource document and guide for school boards to use in recruiting and selecting a superintendent. The material provides a basis to first identify the critical decisions that need to be made and, second, to consider alternatives or options to each of the major decision areas. The following factors are discussed: (1) the board's role in recruiting; (2) the public's involvement; (3) alternative selection resources such as consultants; (4) a planning outline sample; (5) an evaluation of school district's needs; (6) qualifications for superintendent; (7) internal promotion possibilities; (8) recruitment of candidates; (9) screening process; (10) the interview; (11) community visits; (12) the selection process; and (13) Iowa Public Records Law/Open Meetings Law. Appended are a superintendent job description and forms for application, assessment, and contracts. (SI)