Dr. Eric Saunders serves as the Associate Deputy Commissioner for District Operations at the Arkansas Department of Education. With over 25 years in education, his leadership experience spans nearly every level of the K–12 system—from classroom teacher and coach to superintendent, assistant commissioner, and state-level administrator. Before his current role, Dr. Saunders served as Assistant State Superintendent for District Support, and earlier as Assistant Superintendent for Benton Public Schools. His past roles also include Assistant Commissioner for Research and Technology and Fiscal Services, as well as Superintendent of the East End School District.
A lifelong learner and educator, Dr. Saunders began his career as a high school mathematics teacher, principal, and athletic coach. He has also taught graduate-level education courses as an adjunct professor at Harding University. In 2022, he published Stick the Learning, a book that explores how science-backed learning strategies can transform teaching and improve outcomes.
Dr. Saunders brings a dynamic blend of practical experience and research-based insight to his work. His presentations focus on the science of learning and how to bridge the gap between cognitive science and real classrooms. Passionate about helping educators become more effective and efficient, he shares powerful, actionable strategies that drive both student and teacher success.
He and his wife, Shannon, live in Benton, Arkansas, with their two daughters, Audrey and Leah.
