Meet Eric Johnson, Implementation Manager here at ParentSquare! He works on post-sales implementation, data integration and transfer, as well as system admin training to ensure customers the best user experience on the ParentSquare platform.
If you could dedicate your life to solving one problem, what would it be?
As a child of two public school teachers, I am an unwavering promoter of the power of public schools. If I could work to solve one issue it would be that of educational inequity. I wish for all students to have excellent public education that sets a strong foundation for their future.
What words of wisdom would you pass onto your childhood self?
Take a deep breath. I often found myself missing opportunities because I couldn’t see the forest for the trees. Maybe not too bad of advice for me as an adult either!
What are some small things that make your day better?
A great cup of coffee, my kid’s laugh, dog snuggles, and any distance run.
Favorite restaurant?
This is a tough one, I really love visiting restaurants in every place I visit. In terms of the place I visit again and again, ZZQ here in Richmond offers the best Texas style BBQ I’ve seen outside of that state.
What are you most likely doing on a Saturday afternoon?
On a typical Saturday afternoon, I’m out for a leisurely walk with our two pups and my family. I would have completed a long run earlier in the day, so the light walk keeps my legs fresh. After, we’d visit with our friends and their kids at a local park or brewery to relax a bit.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up outside of Raleigh, North Carolina, and currently live in Richmond, Virginia.
Favorite movie and/or book?
I’ve been most impacted by a simple play, “Our Town” by Thornton Wilder. I played the role of George Gibbs in high school and have read it countless times. It really hammers home the theme that time is the only true winner in the game of life and to appreciate and love your family and friends and make the most of every day while you can.
What’s your favorite holiday & why?
I am a big fan of Thanksgiving. I love food and I love cooking and to be able to bring family and food together is a big win for me.
Do you have any pets?
Yes, we have two wonderful rescue dogs that keep us busy. Barrett, our first, is an 11-year-old hound mix who absolutely loves any and all food and belly rubs. Scout, our second, is a 4-year-old hound mix who is definitely the quirky girl at the party. It’s awesome seeing how they formed their own pack and accepted our toddler into it as well!
What is the nerdiest thing you do in your free time?
As a kid, I had a dream to be a meteorologist. While that career path never materialized, I definitely follow the weather on what you would consider a “hobbyist” level. I particularly like the snow season and keep our friends in the loop with custom forecasts based on my favorite models and local meteorologists.
What do you like most about working for ParentSquare?
In my first week, it’s been really great to see how eager the team is to welcome you and ensure your success. It’s a small team with big goals and everyone wants to work together to get there.
Eric has been at ParentSquare since June 2, 2021.