The Los Angeles Unified School District named Andrés Chait its new superintendent Wednesday following the resignation of Alberto Carvalho.
Chait was serving as acting superintendent since February when a federal law enforcement investigation led to Carvalho’s administrative leave. Chait is a longtime Los Angeles educator who started his LAUSD as a Kindergarten teacher. He went on to serve in several other district roles, including principal, local district superintendent, and chief of school operations.
“At this moment, our students, families, employees, and communities deserve stability, focus, and confidence in the future of Los Angeles Unified,” said Board President Scott Schmerelson. “After careful consideration, the Board determined that Andrés Chait is uniquely qualified to lead this District. He knows our schools, understands our challenges, has earned the trust of employees and school communities, and has already demonstrated his ability to lead with integrity, transparency, and a relentless focus on students.”
Chait’s appointment is effective immediately. Since becoming acting superintendent earlier this year, the district has been through labor negotiations, budget planning and the end of the school year.
“It is the honor of a lifetime to serve as Superintendent of Los Angeles Unified,” Chait said. “This District has shaped my life and career. I have had the privilege of serving our school communities in many roles, and I remain deeply committed to ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education, every employee feels valued and supported, and every family knows they have a partner in Los Angeles Unified.
“Our focus remains where it belongs — on students. Together, we will continue strengthening academic outcomes, supporting our workforce, maintaining safe and welcoming schools, and ensuring that every decision we make is guided by what is best for the students and families we serve.”
The FBI has not said what it’s investigating in relation to Carvalho, but search warrants were served at his office near LAUSD headquarters, his San Pedro home and a house near Miami, Florida, on Feb. 25.
Court records show federal prosecutors have a separate fraud case investigations against the CEO of the now-defunct education technology company called AllHere, which landed a $6 million contract with the district to provide an AI-powered chatbot called “Ed” two years ago. When unveiling “Ed,” Carvalho touted that it would act as a personal assistant for students and parents.
The chatbot was supposed to do multiple tasks, such as tracking grades and providing educational and mental health resources.
The investment fell apart, and Joanna Smith-Griffin, the founder of AllHere, was arrested and charged with securities, wire fraud and identity theft. By the time the AI deal collapsed, the LAUSD had reportedly paid AllHere $3 million in advance.
Carvalho is not named in the investigation against Smith-Griffin, and he has not been charged with a crime.
Carvalho has denied any wrongdoing. In a statement released in March by a spokesperson, Carvalho maintained his innocence.
“Mr. Carvalho remains confident that the evidence will ultimately demonstrate that he acted appropriately and in the best interests of students. We hope the School Board reinstates him promptly to his position as Superintendent,” the statement read.