Alberto Carvalho Resigns as LAUSD Superintendent Amid Federal Investigation; Andrés Chait Named Permanent Successor
Key Summary: Alberto Carvalho has resigned as superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) amid an ongoing federal investigation. The FBI executed search warrants at his home and district headquarters in February 2025. Carvalho has not been charged and denies wrongdoing. The LAUSD Board of Education has unanimously appointed Andrés Chait, who was serving as acting superintendent, to the permanent role.
Resignation and Appointment
Alberto Carvalho submitted his resignation as superintendent of LAUSD on Sunday, July 13, 2025. The district confirmed receipt of the letter. Some sources report the resignation was effective March 16, 2025, while others report a date of June 21, 2026. In his resignation letter, Carvalho thanked the LAUSD community and noted progress made during his tenure.
On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the LAUSD Board of Education voted unanimously to appoint Andrés Chait as superintendent. Chait had been serving as acting superintendent since February 27, 2025, two days after the FBI raids.
Federal Investigation
On February 25, 2025, the FBI executed search warrants at LAUSD headquarters, Carvalho's residence in San Pedro, and a property in Southwest Ranches, Florida. The FBI confirmed the warrants were served but did not provide further details, citing sealed affidavits.
Multiple sources indicated the investigation pertains to "white collar" crime of a financial nature and is not related to immigration enforcement.
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California confirmed the execution of judicially approved search warrants but provided no further comment. Authorities have not charged Carvalho with any crime.
Related Investigations
The search in Florida occurred at a residence linked to Debra Kerr, a former associate of education technology company AllHere.
District Contract with AllHere
In 2024, LAUSD entered into a contract with AllHere to develop an AI chatbot named "Ed." The district paid AllHere $3 million but ended the relationship approximately three months later when AllHere filed for bankruptcy.
AllHere founder Joanna Smith-Griffin was later charged with securities and wire fraud, and identity theft. Carvalho denied personal involvement in selecting AllHere.
Statements
Alberto Carvalho: A spokesperson stated in March 2025 that Carvalho remains confident the evidence will demonstrate he acted appropriately and in the best interests of students, and expressed hope the school board would reinstate him. His legal representation, Holland & Knight, stated he respects the investigative process and that no evidence has been presented supporting federal law violations.
LAUSD Board of Education: Board President Scott Schmerelson stated the board's decision reflects confidence in Chait's leadership and his ability to guide the district during transition.
Andrés Chait: Chait stated, "I firmly believe in leading with gratitude and never taking the work and support of others for granted. There is no greater accelerator of change and opportunity than the schoolhouse."
Background of Alberto Carvalho
Carvalho became LAUSD superintendent in February 2022 after leading Miami-Dade County Public Schools from 2008 to 2021. During his Miami-Dade tenure, he received the Superintendent of the Year award in 2014 and was recognized for improving graduation rates and academic performance, particularly for Black and Hispanic students. He was knighted by Spain in 2021 for expanding Spanish-language school programs.
Carvalho's contract with LAUSD was extended through 2030, with an annual salary of $440,000.
Background of Andrés Chait
Chait began his career as a kindergarten teacher at Queen Anne Place Elementary School and rose through the ranks, serving as elementary school principal, regional superintendent, and director of operations for the district. He is a district parent and has never worked in another school system.
District Budget
LAUSD's $20.6-billion spending plan for 2026-27 incorporates layoffs of up to several hundred employees with due-process rights and possibly 1,000 more without job protections. Over three years, officials project thousands of additional layoffs. The district covers a projected shortfall with reserves.
Budget pressures include expiration of COVID-relief funds, inflation, and declining enrollment. Increased spending results from salary increases, rising health benefits costs, and expanded benefit eligibility.
Chait's salary as acting superintendent was $395,867. His contract details for the permanent role have not been released.