Sec. 14. Under the direction of the board, the superintendent shall:
(1) propose annually a plan for the operation of the department;
(2) administer the plan as approved by the board;
(3) supervise the general administration of the department;
(4) keep the records of the department and preserve all papers and documents of the department;
(5) recommend persons for appointment as assistants if the board determines there is a need;
(6) appoint the employees of the department, subject to the approval of the board, according to the standards and qualifications fixed by the board and without regard to political affiliation;
(7) prepare and present to the board an annual report; and
(8) perform other duties that the board directs.