James Tilton replaces Jeanne Woodford as Acting Secretary of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The Republican has worked 13 years in corrections administration….and says a major goal of his is establishing more educational programs:

“There are a lot of inmates over there who would love to program and they’re sitting in their bunks all the time, so one of my issues is to provide opportunities for them to reward good behavior.”

In a statement, Woodford said her decision to step down was based on her commitment to her family and did not reflect any change in her feelings about the positive direction of the department. Governor Schwarzenegger praised the leadership she provided during her short tenure:

 “Jeanne was a terrific help in these last few months and she stepped in under difficult circumstances.”

Woodford plans to stay on as Undersecretary until her retirement in July.