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 Moments04:20 Building Trust Through Relationships08:00 Integrating Technology in Classrooms11:00 Infrastructure Update & Classroom Technology15:11 Staffing Challenges in Rural Education17:44 Hiring Challenges in Education Technology22:20 Valuing Staff Contributions25:06 Workplace Culture's Impact on Retention27:55 Customer Service Culture in Education30:30 Parental Influence in Education33:23 Small School, Big OpportunitiesWhy You’ll Love This EpisodeThis 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 BonniksenWebsite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-bonniksen-3b530b16Connect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob CiredduLinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-ciredduSubscribe to Learning Through Technology for more conversations with the innovators shaping K-12 education.