In a startling turn of events, the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners has revoked the professional license of Ian Roberts, the superintendent of Iowa's largest school district, following his arrest by federal agents on allegations of living and working in the country illegally.
Roberts, who has led the Des Moines public schools since 2023, was detained on a traffic stop and found in possession of a loaded handgun, a hunting knife, and a substantial amount of cash. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that he was subject to a final removal order issued in May 2024, raising questions about the verification process that led to his hiring.
The superintendent, who moved from Guyana to the U.S. on a student visa in 1999, reportedly signed employment forms asserting his citizenship and provided documentation such as a driver's license and Social Security card to validate his eligibility for the position, earning a salary of $286,716 annually.
The school's board acted swiftly, placing Roberts on unpaid leave shortly after the incident was disclosed by the Department of Homeland Security. Board chair Jackie Norris expressed that clarity was needed regarding the situation, directing Roberts' attorney to contest the license revocation by noon the following day.
Roberts' arrest has incited concern among students and parents in the Des Moines community, who are familiar with his active presence at educational events. The school board acknowledges the need for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his hiring and legality.
Des Moines officials now grapple with the implications of this situation as they maintain a commitment to transparency and accountability, with interim superintendent Matt Smith stepping in as the board seeks answers to this unprecedented crisis.
As the investigation progresses, U.S. Representative Zach Nunn has called for a thorough review of ICE’s actions and the circumstances leading up to Roberts' arrest, emphasizing the importance of knowing the facts for the community.
