LAUSD Superintendent Resigns Amid Ongoing FBI Investigation

The superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), Alberto Carvalho, has resigned following an FBI raid on his residence and office earlier this year. This decision comes as the investigation raises concerns about a problematic AI school contract.

Carvalho, who led the country’s second-largest school district, stepped down to eliminate any distractions from student learning. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing students in his work.

“Placing students first has always guided my work,” Carvalho stated. “I am resigning as Superintendent of LAUSD effective today, June 21, 2026, to ensure that our focus remains on students and learning.”

The investigation appears linked to a failed multimillion-dollar AI initiative and potential conflicts of interest. Carvalho’s resignation ends his four-year leadership at LAUSD, during which he was appointed in 2022 and reappointed in 2025.

In his resignation letter, Carvalho recounted several “historic” achievements, such as record graduation rates, improved academic performance compared to pre-pandemic levels, and progress for disadvantaged students.

“As recognized by the School Board during my reappointment, our leadership valued achievement and equity,” he noted. “Our most vulnerable students were central to our agenda.”

Carvalho expressed gratitude towards students, families, educators, leaders, and the community for their trust and support. He also emphasized his continued dedication to the district’s wellbeing.

The LAUSD Board released a statement pledging to maintain public trust and ensure stability. The focus remains on delivering high-quality education, supporting the workforce, and upholding community relationships.

Acting Superintendent Andrés E. Chait will continue leading the district until a permanent replacement is identified.

The FBI’s investigation involved searches at Carvalho’s residence and a colleague’s home. Video showed investigators executing search warrants and removing items from the locations. The raids may connect to a defunct startup, AllHere, that had a contract for a student-facing chatbot.

The $6 million contract, signed by Carvalho in 2023, faced issues in 2024 after the founder was accused of embezzlement. The project’s failure involved whistleblower allegations and data privacy concerns.

Reports suggest the deal was aided by Debra Kerr, an edtech sales professional linked with Carvalho since the 2000s. Her Miami residence was also targeted in the investigations.