Following FBI raids linked to the AllHere AI chatbot project, Carvalho’s law firm insists he acted in students’ best interest, urging the board for reinstatement.
Holland & Knight, representing LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho, issued a statement on March 10, 2026, emphasizing that no evidence has been presented suggesting Carvalho violated federal law. The firm called for his prompt reinstatement, highlighting that Carvalho consistently acted in the best interests of students amid a developing FBI investigation.
“The superintendent is confident that a full review of the evidence will show he acted appropriately at all times,” the statement read. “We urge the Los Angeles Unified School District Board to reinstate him without delay to continue leading the district for its 540,000 students.”
The legal statement follows raids conducted at Carvalho’s San Pedro home, LAUSD offices, and a Florida residence connected to Debra Kerr, a former consultant involved in securing the district’s $6 million AI chatbot contract with startup AllHere. Sources indicate the investigation centers on potential white-collar financial misconduct related to the project.
The AllHere chatbot, named “Ed,” was launched in 2023 to help students and parents track grades and attendance. The startup collapsed in 2024, and its founder, Joanna Smith-Griffin, was arrested on charges including securities fraud and wire fraud. Whistleblowers also raised concerns that student data may have been stored on unauthorized offshore servers, violating privacy agreements.
Following the raids, the LAUSD Board voted unanimously (7-0) to place Carvalho on administrative leave on February 27, 2026. Reactions across the community have been mixed: Parents Supporting Teachers expressed relief, while some neighbors viewed the raids as excessive or potentially politically motivated.
In Carvalho’s absence, Acting Superintendent Andres Chait, a 27-year LAUSD veteran, has taken the helm, prioritizing stability and continuity across the district. He has emphasized that classrooms and core academic operations will continue without disruption.
Education policy experts note this case illustrates the risks and oversight challenges districts face when implementing AI-driven solutions. “Innovation in schools must always balance efficiency, student privacy, and accountability,” said Dr. Marisol Vega, an education technology specialist at USC Rossier School of Education.
As the investigation unfolds, the Holland & Knight statement represents the latest authoritative update, framing Carvalho’s position clearly while emphasizing the district’s ongoing focus on student learning and operational continuity.
