Alberto Carvalho, former MDCPS superintendent, placed on leave by LA Schools following FBI raids

The decision to place Alberto Carvalho, former superintendent of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools, on paid administrative leave has sent shockwaves through the education community. This move came after FBI raids on February 25, 2026, at his San Pedro home and Los Angeles Unified School District headquarters. The raids were part of an ongoing investigation into a $6 million contract involving an artificial intelligence chatbot with a bankrupt company called AllHere. Carvalho, known for his leadership in Miami and recent appointment to lead the Los Angeles school district, has been at the center of intense federal scrutiny.

Following the FBI raids, the Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education voted unanimously to place Carvalho on paid administrative leave. This decision was made in response to concerns raised by federal agents regarding their investigation into his involvement in the AI chatbot deal. Andres Chait, a veteran administrator within the district, has been named acting superintendent to ensure the district’s operations run smoothly during this turbulent period.

The FBI raids focused on a $3 million payment made by the Los Angeles Unified School District to AllHere for the development and implementation of an AI chatbot system named “Ed.” The fallout from this deal led to the arrest of Joanna Smith-Griffin, the founder and CEO of AllHere, on charges of securities fraud, wire fraud, and identity theft. This arrest, coupled with the bankruptcy of AllHere, has cast a shadow over the future of the “Ed” project and raised questions about its viability.

The investigation has now expanded its focus to include Carvalho’s professional history in Florida. Subpoenas have been served to the Miami-Dade County Public Schools and the Foundation for New Education Initiatives, a nonprofit organization tied to Carvalho’s tenure in Miami. These developments have raised concerns about Carvalho’s reputation and legacy in the education sector. Once hailed as an influential figure in American public education, Carvalho now finds himself embroiled in a high-profile federal investigation.

Despite these challenges, district officials have not provided detailed information about the ongoing investigation. Their silence on the matter has led to speculation and varying reactions from the public and education advocates. While some emphasize the importance of due process and impartiality in handling the case, others believe that political motivations may be driving the investigation. As the legal process unfolds, the Los Angeles Unified School District remains committed to providing stability for its students and families.

As Carvalho remains on paid leave, acting superintendent Andres Chait will oversee the district’s operations. Chait’s extensive experience within the district is expected to provide continuity and support to the 500,000 students affected by these developments. The coming weeks will be crucial as federal agents continue to review financial records and communications related to the AllHere deal. The fate of Carvalho and the future of the Los Angeles school district hang in the balance as this complex investigation unfolds.