Small School Districts’ Association appoints new executive director

The Small School Districts’ Association (SSDA) has appointed Yuri Calderon to the role of executive director, effective June 1. 

Calderon has worked in public institutions and schools throughout the state for the past three decades. 

“I am very excited to have Yuri on board as our next SSDA Executive Director. I know under his leadership SSDA will continue to be the foremost association dedicated to students in the State of California,” said the association’s president, Eric Bonniksen, in a news release. 

“I am confident that Yuri is dedicated to continuing the strong support and advocacy for the small and rural school districts we have the pleasure to serve.”

Calderon is regarded as a visionary leader with strong skills in fiscal management, emergency management and team building, the release states. 

He also served as general and special counsel at various school districts, where he provided legal advice, worked on developer agreements and engaged in collective bargaining agreements. Calderon has also managed multimillion-dollar construction bond programs. 

“Yuri Calderon’s appointment as Executive Director comes at a pivotal time for the SSDA, as the Association looks to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future with a renewed focus on excellence, quality, and value,” the release reads.

“His action-oriented philosophy and strong personal and business ethic are set to inspire and drive the SSDA community towards achieving remarkable successes in the service of public education.”