Des Moines Superintendent’s Education License Revoked Following ICE Arrest; School Board Takes Action
Des Moines Superintendent’s Education License Revoked Following ICE Arrest; School Board Takes Action
Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Ian Roberts has had his education license officially revoked by Iowa state education officials, a swift consequence following his arrest last week by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.
Roberts was detained on Friday, September 26, in a “targeted enforcement operation” by DHS officials who stated he had “a final order of removal and no work authorization.” ICE also noted existing weapon possession charges from February 2020 and that Roberts, a native of Guyana, entered the U.S. in 1999 on a student visa, receiving a final order of removal in May 2024. During his arrest, he was found with a loaded handgun, prompting an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners issued the revocation on Sunday, September 28, informing Roberts via a letter dated the same day that his license was no longer valid due to his lack of legal presence in the United States. He has until October 28 to appeal the decision.
In response to the unfolding events, the Des Moines school board initially voted to place Roberts on administrative leave on Saturday, September 27. By Monday, September 29, the district announced it would move to place him on unpaid administrative leave, citing legal requirements. A special board meeting was scheduled for Monday afternoon to address new information regarding Roberts’ detainment.
Jackie Norris, Des Moines school board president, acknowledged Roberts’ effectiveness as a leader but stressed the serious questions surrounding his citizenship and legal ability to perform his duties. Roberts, who began his superintendency in July 2023, is currently being held at Woodbury County Jail.
Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.