East San Jose school district swiftly appoints interim leader after superintendents firing

Alum Rock Union School District appointed Sandra Garcia as interim superintendent after the firing of German Cerda, who had been in the role for less than a year. The board's unanimous decision highlights Garcia's extensive experience in educational leadership, including previous roles as a principal and instructional coach. The district is grappling with a $20 million budget deficit and a significant drop in enrollment, which has decreased from over 10,000 students in 2015-16 to an expected 7,270 in 2024-25. Parents and community members have voiced their concerns about the board's decision-making process and the overall stability of the district. Former trustee Andrea Flores Shelton referred to the situation as a "nightmare Groundhog's Day," emphasizing the lack of clarity in leadership transitions.

Councilmember Peter Ortiz is advocating for a meeting with local educational authorities to address these challenges. The financial difficulties have already led to plans for school closures and consolidations in the coming years. As the new school year approaches, the community is anxious about the implications these changes will have on their children's education.