The Los Angeles Unified Board of Education today announced the appointment of Andrés E. Chait as Superintendent of Los Angeles Unified School District, effective immediately.
A respected educator and leader with more than three decades of service to Los Angeles Unified, Chait has served as Acting Superintendent since February 2026, guiding the District through a period of significant transition while maintaining a steadfast focus on students, schools, and academic progress.
The Board’s action comes at a time when the District is implementing critical academic, financial, and operational priorities that require steady leadership and deep institutional knowledge.
“At this moment, our students, families, employees, and communities deserve stability, focus, and confidence in the future of Los Angeles Unified,” said Board President Scott Schmerelson. “After careful consideration, the Board determined that Andrés Chait is uniquely qualified to lead this District. He knows our schools, understands our challenges, has earned the trust of employees and school communities, and has already demonstrated his ability to lead with integrity, transparency, and a relentless focus on students.”
Since assuming the role of Acting Superintendent, Chait has led the District through labor negotiations, budget planning, and the successful completion of the school year while maintaining continuity of services for nearly 400,000 students. Throughout his tenure, he has emphasized collaboration, transparency, and support for students, families, and employees.
Chait began his career in Los Angeles Unified as a Kindergarten teacher and went on to serve as an assistant principal, principal, Local District Superintendent, Superintendent of Local District Northeast, Chief of School Operations and Acting Superintendent. His extensive experience spans both instructional leadership and District operations, providing a comprehensive understanding of the needs of schools and communities across Los Angeles.
Board members emphasized that their decision reflects the unique circumstances facing the District and the demonstrated leadership Chait has provided over the past several months.
“The Board’s responsibility is to select the individual best prepared to lead Los Angeles Unified today,” said Schmerelson. “After observing Mr. Chait’s leadership firsthand and evaluating the District’s immediate needs, we concluded that continuity, proven performance, and deep knowledge of our schools are in the best interests of students.”
Board Vice President Rocío Rivas added, “Our responsibility as a Board is to ensure that every decision we make puts students first and positions Los Angeles Unified for long-term success. At a time when our students, families, and employees are looking for stability and confidence in the future, Andrés Chait has demonstrated the leadership, experience, and commitment needed to guide our District forward. He understands our communities, values collaboration, and has shown that he can bring people together around a shared vision of opportunity and achievement for every student.”
In accepting the appointment, Chait expressed gratitude for the Board’s confidence and reaffirmed his commitment to serving the students, families, and employees of Los Angeles Unified.
“It is the honor of a lifetime to serve as Superintendent of Los Angeles Unified,” Chait said. “This District has shaped my life and career. I have had the privilege of serving our school communities in many roles, and I remain deeply committed to ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education, every employee feels valued and supported, and every family knows they have a partner in Los Angeles Unified.”
“Our focus remains where it belongs — on students. Together, we will continue strengthening academic outcomes, supporting our workforce, maintaining safe and welcoming schools, and ensuring that every decision we make is guided by what is best for the students and families we serve.”
The Board noted that Chait’s appointment reflects its commitment to ensuring stable leadership, maintaining public trust, and continuing the progress achieved by students and schools across Los Angeles Unified.
“Our students deserve leaders who understand their experiences, believe in their potential, and are committed to creating opportunities for every child to succeed,” Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill said. “Andrés Chait has dedicated his career to serving the students of Los Angeles Unified and has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to families and school communities. I am confident he will continue the work of ensuring that every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to achieve their dreams.”
