Eric Runez was born in Manila, Philippines, but spent the majority of his childhood in Waterloo, Iowa, where his mother served as a pediatrician and his father as an office manager. Eric and his wife Sara are blessed with three children. Their oldest, Hannah, is a recent graduate from Truman State University who is currently pursuing a doctor of physical therapy at Creighton University. Brodie is a 12th grader at DAHS and is an actively involved student with a passion for basketball. Halle attends DAMS and will be in the 7th grade. She is also actively involved in a number of activities including basketball and tennis. Eric has been fortunate to have had opportunities to coach many of his children’s youth athletic teams.

Eric holds two Bachelor of Arts degrees in social studies education and psychology from the University of Northern Iowa. He attained a Masters of Arts in Education Administration and Supervision from the University of Phoenix Cohort Program while in Colorado. In addition, he completed his Superintendent Certification through Marquette University. He is currently completing his dissertation on the role of the superintendent and school board professional development towards a doctoral degree from Edgewood College in Madison.

Mr. Runez has a diverse teaching and coaching background that includes assignments in Iowa and Colorado prior to relocating to Wisconsin in 2000. He has taught middle school through high school social studies and even served as an educational counselor for at-risk students in the Denver Public Schools. His administrative experience includes serving as principal at Johnson Creek Jr/Sr High School. Prior to coming to DASD, Eric was in the Whitewater Unified School District for 11 years. He served as their middle school principal for six years, and his final five years in Whitewater as their Superintendent.

He and his family are pleased to part of a school and greater community that values their schools and supports student access to outstanding educational and co-curricular experiences. The Norski Pride DASD residents have in their schools is evidenced in words and actions throughout the entire community.