Alcalá will face twin challenges of running and rejuvenating the Department of Education, which must clarify its role for both supporting and holding districts accountable in the evolving era of local control. Gov. Jerry Brown did not appreciably increase the department’s budget during his last eight years in office. An analysis of the department in the Getting Down to Facts research project concluded that the department was understaffed and underpaid, making it difficult to attract and keep key personnel.
The state board must approve Alcalá’s appointment. There are currently two deputy chief superintendents, Glen Price and Michelle Zumot.