L.A. Parent

Meet our July cover star, Juliano Valdi⭐️

Making his feature film debut as the young Michael Jackson in Lionsgate’s highly anticipated film “Michael,” Juliano Valdi is stepping into the shoes of his personal icon. The biopic follows the King of Pop from his early days in Gary, Indiana in The Jackson Five to his breakout solo work that would define a generation.

Moonwalking down the Las Vegas Strip since he was just 6, Juliano is a self-taught dancer whom “Michael” director Antoine Fuqua says embodies “Michael’s spirit through his voice, his charisma, and his dance skills.”

Photographer Bradley Meinz photographed Juliano and his mother, Shi Jackson, three days before the film’s opening for L.A. Parent Magazine.

Juliano’s dance moves were fire!

Michael Juliano Valdi L.A. Parent Magazine

Photographer: bradleymeinz

The Los Angeles Unified Board of Education has appointed longtime educator Andrés E. Chait as superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, making permanent the leadership role he has held on an interim basis since February. The former superintendent, Alberto Carvalho, resigned June 21 amid federal investigations.

The new appointment comes as the district works to maintain academic progress, address financial challenges and provide stability for nearly 400,000 students.

Chait, who began his career with LAUSD as a kindergarten teacher nearly three decades ago, was unanimously selected by the school board after serving as acting superintendent through labor negotiations, budget planning and the completion of the 2025-26 school year. Board members cited his institutional knowledge, collaborative leadership style and commitment to students as key reasons for the appointment.

“At this moment, our students, families, employees and communities deserve stability, focus and confidence in the future of Los Angeles Unified,” Board President Scott Schmerelson said.

Throughout his career with LAUSD, Chait has served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, Local District superintendent, superintendent of Local District Northeast, chief of school operations and acting superintendent, giving him experience in both classroom instruction and districtwide leadership.

“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.”

He said his priorities include strengthening academic outcomes, supporting educators and staff, maintaining safe school environments and ensuring every student has access to a high-quality education.

Board members said appointing Chait provides continuity at a critical time as the district advances key academic, financial and operational priorities.

https://www.laparent.com/lausd-appoints-andres-chait-superintendent/