As Andres Chait steps in as Acting Superintendent, LAUSD faces a budget crisis, possible layoffs, and tense union negotiations that could shape the future of public education in Los Angeles.
“Lovely,” “a real leader,” “easy to work with,” “great guy,” “problem solver.” These compliments and many more poured in from members of the Parents Supporting Teachers group following the appointment of Andres Chait as Acting Superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD).
These are not ordinary accolades. The group has been one of the most vocal voices on district policies and a strong opponent of former Superintendent Alberto Carvalho.
The LAUSD Board stated that its decision was made to ensure the district’s leadership remains focused on its mission of delivering world-class teaching and learning. While acknowledging the importance of transparency, officials noted that specifics cannot be discussed due to an ongoing investigation.
“Today’s action is aimed at fulfilling our promise to students and families to provide an excellent public education without distraction,” said Board President Scott M. Schmerelson. “Andres Chait is a highly regarded leader and educator, and we are fortunate to have him step in seamlessly to oversee our schools. Over the past several years, our educators and students have made enormous strides, and we expect that progress to continue uninterrupted.”
Chait responded with humility, emphasizing continuity and stability:
“I am humbled by the Board’s confidence in appointing me to serve as Acting Superintendent during this critical time. Our focus remains clear: to ensure stability, continuity, and strong leadership for our students, families, and employees.”
Following the announcement, a wave of positive comments circulated online.
“Oh, he’s so much easier to work with! I’ve had meetings with him too, and I’m happy about this decision,” wrote Jena Noyes, a parent active in social media and closely monitoring LAUSD policies.
“He is lovely! Super responsive. Couldn’t be happier with this choice!” added Kimberly Sklanowsky Buccieri.
“He’s a great guy. Wonderful leader. The real deal,” wrote other supporters.
Many highlighted Chait’s deep experience within LAUSD and praised him for not being an outsider.
“I taught for 36 years in LAUSD. Every time they brought someone from outside the district, the superintendent had no real understanding of LAUSD. They received a large salary, and soon an acting superintendent from within the district would take their place. Yes, I hope an agreement with UTLA can be reached,” said Deborah V. Harrison.
Chait’s career spans decades in LAUSD. He began as a teacher, then served as assistant principal and principal at multiple schools. He later became a field director and operations administrator for Local District Northeast, overseeing about 120 schools, and eventually served as Chief of School Operations, managing key district-wide functions.
As Acting Superintendent, Chait faces significant challenges, including potential layoffs, a financial crisis, and the possibility of a teachers’ union strike.
“Let’s hope he can sit down with UTLA, reach an agreement, and avoid a possible strike,” said Bruce Wright.
“I wonder whether he will be able to make financial changes while serving in an interim capacity. I would love for him to stop LAUSD’s wasteful spending — such as the so-called winter academy, which has had no effect on closing students’ academic gaps — and instead use that funding to restore the highly successful Primary Promise program, whose data clearly demonstrated its effectiveness,” said Alissa Anderson.
Another parent, PastelMango6802, added:
“We’re very happy with the election. He was a great superintendent in our local district. He has attended events at our school and was lovely. I’ve heard nothing but good things. He has also worked closely with Maria Nichols, the AALA president. She used to be our director.”
Chait steps into leadership at a critical moment, as the Board and federal authorities continue addressing ongoing investigations involving the previous superintendent. He holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of California, Berkeley and a master’s degree in educational administration from California State University, Los Angeles. His long-standing experience within LAUSD positions him to guide the district through this transitional period.
