Controversy Surrounding Des Moines School Hire

Illegal immigrants with a history of criminal activity have recently caught the attention of the Immigration Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE).

In an unexpected twist, Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS) employed Ian Roberts, despite knowing that he misrepresented his educational credentials, specifically claiming a PhD in Urban Education Leadership from Morgan State University. This revelation came to light on Wednesday, following Roberts’ arrest by ICE last month. He was detained under a final 2024 removal order resulting from overstaying a student visa.

“I want to be clear. In a world of misinformation, speculation can quickly turn into a narrative, and accountability becomes essential,” stated School Board President Jackie Norris. “The Des Moines School Board has also fallen victim to Dr. Roberts’ dishonesty, and his actions impact a multitude of stakeholders, including students, parents, and community members.”

Interestingly, while there was a degree listed on Roberts’ resume at the time of hiring, an external consulting firm flagged the inaccurate information. The resume was then revised, and it was noted that Roberts failed to finalise the required paperwork to validate his degree. The board acknowledged that they were aware he had not graduated from Morgan State when he was hired.

The Des Moines school board has not commented in response to inquiries.

According to confirmation from the university, Roberts attended Morgan State from 2002 to 2007 but did not complete his studies. It remains unclear if he provided documentation proving his legal residency during that period.

Roberts initially came to the United States on a student visa in 1999, though it’s uncertain when his legal status expired.

After being placed on administrative leave following his arrest, Roberts resigned from his position on Tuesday. He had joined the school in 2023, despite a known criminal record related to illegal firearm possession.

At the time of his arrest, Roberts was reportedly found with a loaded handgun, a hunting knife, and $3,000 in cash.

While employed in the district, Roberts advocated for a policy intended to facilitate the hiring of more offenders in schools. Currently, the Department of Justice is investigating DMPS for potential “racial-based employment preferences,” following discoveries of references related to “employment practices” and “positive behavior.”