Escobedo is nationally recognized for his work to address achievement gaps as Superintendent of the Chula Vista Elementary School District. He was ACSA’s 2019 Superintendent of the Year for Region 18, which encompasses San Diego and Imperial counties.

In the spring, Escobedo announced his retirement from CVESD and his new role as Executive Director of the National Center of Urban School Transformation at San Diego State University, where he is an adjunct professor of Educational Administration. Founded in 2005, NCUST was created to play a constructive leadership role around urban education nationwide. The center uses a research approach called “appreciative inquiry,” focusing on success stories rather than problems.

“Dr. Escobedo’s leadership experience, track record of success and deep understanding of the challenges schools face make him a great addition to our dedicated team of experts on the board,” said State Board President Linda Darling-Hammond, in a release.

Escobedo replaces Board Member Matt Navo, who was named Executive Director of the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence in June.

“It is a privilege to be able to continue serving the students of California along with this distinguished board,” Escobedo said, in a release. “I am humbled by this opportunity, and will carry on my ardent desire to promote excellence and equity as part of the learning experience for our children.”

Escobedo’s experience includes working as Assistant Superintendent for Educational Leadership in the South Bay Union School District and Principal Research Analyst for the American Institutes for Research. He earned his undergraduate degree from Yale University, a master’s degree in Educational Administration from San Diego State University, and a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from the University of California, San Diego.