Small School, Big Impact: Eric Bonniksen Shares Community-Centered Leadership Strategies

In this episode of Learning Through Technology, hosts Alex and Bob talk with Eric Bonniksen, superintendent of Placerville Union School District in California and president of the Small School District Association. With 14 years of leadership in the same district—a rare feat—Eric shares how building trust, fostering relationships, and prioritizing “students first” has created a culture where both staff and families feel valued. From introducing a dual immersion program shaped by parent input to structuring a unique technology bond that keeps classrooms up-to-date without overburdening taxpayers, Eric explains how small schools can innovate while staying deeply connected to their communities.

The conversation doesn’t shy away from challenges either. Eric candidly discusses the staffing crisis—bus drivers to teachers—and the difficulty of competing with outside industries for talent. Yet, he shows how culture, personal connection, and genuine customer service can make schools places where people want to work and stay. His reflections on leadership, relationships, and the influence of his educator parents add a personal dimension to this practical, hopeful discussion.

Key Moments

04:20 Building Trust Through Relationships

08:00 Integrating Technology in Classrooms

11:00 Infrastructure Update & Classroom Technology

15:11 Staffing Challenges in Rural Education

17:44 Hiring Challenges in Education Technology

22:20 Valuing Staff Contributions

25:06 Workplace Culture's Impact on Retention

27:55 Customer Service Culture in Education

30:30 Parental Influence in Education

33:23 Small School, Big Opportunities

Why You’ll Love This Episode

This episode is a masterclass in small-school leadership. Whether you’re a superintendent, educator, or community member, you’ll be inspired by Eric’s creative solutions for funding technology, his philosophy of putting relationships first, and his belief that culture drives everything. If you’ve ever wondered how small districts can thrive despite limited resources, or what it takes to sustain leadership in one place for more than a decade, this conversation offers both answers and inspiration.

Connect with Guest – Eric Bonniksen

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-bonniksen-3b530b16

Connect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob Cireddu

LinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/
LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-cireddu

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