The superintendent of Los Angeles public schools, currently on paid leave amid a federal investigation, has issued a statement denying any wrongdoing and calling for his immediate reinstatement to lead the nation’s second-largest school district.
Federal agents executed search warrants on Feb. 25 at Alberto Carvalho's residence and the Los Angeles Unified School District's headquarters. Two days later, the Board of Education unanimously voted to place him on leave pending the investigation's outcome.
"Mr. Carvalho remains confident that the evidence will ultimately demonstrate that he acted appropriately and in the best interests of students," stated a spokesperson for his law firm, Holland & Knight. "We hope the school board reinstates him promptly to his position as superintendent."
Authorities have not disclosed details of the investigation, nor have they accused Carvalho of any crimes. However, the FBI also searched a third location near Miami, reportedly belonging to Debra Kerr, who was previously associated with AllHere, an education technology company that had a contract with LA schools.
In 2024, Carvalho promoted a $3 million deal with AllHere for an AI chatbot named "Ed." The district later terminated its dealings with the company, which subsequently declared bankruptcy. Months later, AllHere founder Joanna Smith-Griffin was charged with securities and wire fraud, along with identity theft. Carvalho had previously denied personal involvement in AllHere's selection.
Wednesday’s statement marked his first public comment since last month's searches. "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," the statement affirmed. "While the government’s investigation remains ongoing, no evidence has been presented by prosecutors supporting any allegation that Mr. Carvalho violated federal law."
The Los Angeles Unified School District has stated its cooperation with investigators. The board cited minimizing disruption to student education as the reason for Mr. Carvalho's leave, appointing Andres Chait as acting superintendent. Mr. Carvalho assumed the superintendent role in Los Angeles in 2022, having previously led Miami's public schools.
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