Los Angeles public schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho resigned on Sunday, four months after being placed on paid leave during a federal investigation. In his resignation letter, Carvalho stated he wanted students to learn “without distraction.” The letter, addressed to “students, families, teachers, staff, and community,” made no direct mention of the February 25 search of his home and the LA Unified School District (LAUSD) headquarters by the FBI.
Background of the Investigation
The Board of Education voted unanimously to place Carvalho on paid leave pending the outcome of the investigation two days after the FBI served search warrants. Carvalho denied any wrongdoing earlier this year and had requested reinstatement as head of the nation’s second-largest school district, which serves more than 500,000 students. Authorities have not disclosed the nature of the investigation or accused Carvalho of any crimes.
Resignation and Board Response
In his resignation letter, Carvalho cited “historic progress” made during his tenure. “Placing students first has always guided my work,” he wrote. “Because I believe our schools must remain focused on students and learning without distraction, I am resigning as Superintendent of LAUSD effective today, June 21, 2026.” The Board acknowledged receipt of the letter in a statement released early Monday, reaffirming its commitment to stability and continuity. “The Board remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring stability, continuity, and continued progress through strong leadership. Our focus remains unchanged: providing every student with a high-quality education, supporting our dedicated workforce, and maintaining the trust of the communities we serve,” the statement said. Acting Superintendent Andrés Chait will remain in the role until a permanent decision is made.
Connection to AllHere and AI Chatbot
The FBI also searched a third location near Miami, a property belonging to Debra Kerr, who previously worked with AllHere, an education technology company that had a contract with LA schools. AllHere collapsed into bankruptcy after its founder, Joanna Smith-Griffin, was indicted for securities and wire fraud, along with identity theft. In 2024, Carvalho heavily promoted a deal with AllHere for an AI chatbot named “Ed” designed to assist students. The district paid the company $3 million but dropped the deal about three months after unveiling the technology. At the time, Carvalho denied personal involvement in the selection of AllHere, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Carvalho’s Defense and Legal Representation
A statement from Holland & Knight, the law firm representing Carvalho, said, “Mr. Carvalho respects the rule of law and the investigative process and has always acted in the best interests of students and within the bounds of the law. While the government’s investigation remains ongoing, no evidence has been presented by prosecutors supporting any allegation that Mr. Carvalho violated federal law.” An email seeking comment was sent to the law firm Monday. Following the search of school headquarters, LA Unified said it was cooperating with investigators and had no further information.
Carvalho’s Career
Carvalho became superintendent for LA in 2022, having previously led public schools in Miami.
