Alberto Carvalho, the superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), resigned abruptly on Tuesday as the FBI launched an investigation into undisclosed matters related to his leadership. The resignation, effective immediately, sent shockwaves through the nation's second-largest school system, which serves over 550,000 students.
Resignation and Investigation Details
Carvalho, 58, submitted his resignation to the LAUSD Board of Education during a closed-door meeting on Tuesday morning. Board President Jackie Goldberg confirmed the resignation but declined to comment on the specifics of the FBI probe. "This is a deeply troubling development for our district," Goldberg said in a statement. "We are cooperating fully with federal authorities and have appointed an interim superintendent to ensure stability."
The FBI investigation reportedly focuses on Carvalho's financial dealings and potential misuse of district funds, according to sources familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity. No charges have been filed, and Carvalho has not been formally accused of any wrongdoing. His attorney, Mark Geragos, stated that Carvalho "vigorously denies any misconduct and is cooperating with investigators."
Impact on the School District
The resignation comes at a critical time for LAUSD, which is grappling with budget deficits, declining enrollment, and ongoing challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. The district had recently launched a ambitious plan to improve literacy rates and expand early childhood education. Deputy Superintendent Megan Reilly will serve as interim superintendent while the board conducts a national search for a permanent replacement.
Carvalho, who previously led Miami-Dade County Public Schools, became LAUSD superintendent in 2022 with a mandate to reform the district's struggling schools. His tenure saw mixed results: graduation rates rose to 83%, but standardized test scores remained below pre-pandemic levels. The FBI investigation has cast a shadow over his legacy.
Community Reaction
Parents and teachers expressed shock and concern. "We need transparency and stability," said Maria Hernandez, a parent of two students at Venice High School. "Our kids can't afford another disruption." The teachers' union, United Teachers Los Angeles, called for a swift resolution and full disclosure of the investigation's findings.
The FBI has not released details of the probe, but sources indicate it involves contracts awarded during Carvalho's tenure. The district's inspector general is also conducting an internal review. The scandal threatens to undermine public trust in the district's leadership, which has faced criticism over school closures and resource allocation.
