IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — A state agency revoked the professional license of the leader of Iowa’s largest school district on Monday, days after federal agents arrested him on accusations that he was living and working in the country illegally.
The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners informed Des Moines public schools Superintendent Ian Roberts that his legal standing was invalidated due to his unauthorized presence in the U.S.
Roberts, a native of Guyana, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on Friday, following a violation of a final removal order issued by a judge in May 2024. Entering the U.S. on a student visa in 1999, he now faces significant legal challenges.
Reports indicate that Roberts attempted to flee after a traffic stop and was apprehended with a loaded handgun, a hunting knife, and about $3,000 cash. Officials from Des Moines schools assert that they were oblivious to Roberts' illegal residency status, as he had provided documentation verifying his citizenship upon hire.
The school board voted unanimously to place Roberts on unpaid leave, with his annual salary of $286,716, after being informed by the Department of Homeland Security regarding his unauthorized status.
Board chair Jackie Norris stated the district would allow Roberts' attorney to challenge the allegations, with a decision on potential termination to follow. Roberts is recognized for his active engagement in community events and his dedication to students during his two-year leadership.
As concerns rise within the community, questions about the background vetting process for school employees have been raised, with the Iowa Department of Education investigating the issue following Roberts' arrest. The board has appointed Matt Smith as interim superintendent while navigating this troubling situation.
U.S. Rep. Zach Nunn expressed concern over the complexities surrounding the arrest and called for a clear, verified timeline regarding ICE’s actions involving a senior public official.
