L.A. schools face crisis amid investigation into Carvalho, AI contract - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Howard Blume, Brittny Mejia, Richard Winton, Ruben Vives

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is grappling with a significant crisis as federal authorities investigate Superintendent Alberto Carvalho following raids on his home and office. These actions appear linked to AllHere, a defunct AI chatbot company that failed after being contracted by the district. The LA Board of Education is meeting in closed session to discuss the matter, with no details released so far. This investigation has cast a shadow over Carvalho’s leadership, raising concerns about oversight and accountability within the district. Carvalho, who has led LAUSD since 2022, has faced numerous challenges but also achieved notable successes, including improving student attendance and academic performance post-pandemic. However, his tenure was marked by the controversial launch of an AI chatbot named "Ed," which aimed to assist students and teachers but failed spectacularly after only three months. This failure, coupled with the ongoing federal probe, has highlighted vulnerabilities in the district’s management and technology initiatives. The investigation into Carvalho and AllHere has broader implications for LAUSD, particularly given the district’s efforts to address disruptions caused by recent immigration raids and pandemic-related issues. The secrecy surrounding the case has added to concerns about transparency and whether this could impact the district’s stability and public trust. As the situation unfolds, it underscores the challenges of balancing innovation with proper oversight in education systems. This story matters because it touches on critical issues of leadership, accountability, and technology use in public schools. For readers interested in news, it highlights how high-level investigations can affect educational institutions and their ability to serve students effectively. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled, influencing future decision-making in education and tech partnerships. Ultimately, the crisis at LAUSD serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required between innovation and regulation. As the investigation continues, the district’s ability to maintain trust and continue its progress under Carvalho’s leadership will be closely watched. The situation underscores the importance of transparency and ethical practices in public service, particularly in sectors like education that impact millions of lives.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/26/2026