DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — In a surprising turn of events, Ian Roberts, superintendent of Iowa's largest school district, has been placed on administrative leave following his arrest by federal immigration officials. Roberts was reportedly detained by ICE agents while driving a school vehicle, with officials claiming he was living in the U.S. illegally.
The Des Moines school board initiated a special meeting where they unanimously voted to place Roberts on paid leave, expressing concern over his ability to fulfill his duties for the district, which encompasses 30,000 students. School board president Jackie Norris emphasized that the situation was alarming and that they were still gathering relevant facts.
According to ICE, Roberts is subject to a final removal order issued in 2024, having entered the country on a student visa in 1999. Speculation is rife regarding the implications of this situation on his position and the district's hiring practices.
Norris stated, No one here was aware of any citizenship or immigration issues that Dr. Roberts may have been facing, stressing the seriousness of the allegations put forth by ICE.
Roberts has retained legal representation as the investigation unfolds. It's noteworthy that he had previously claimed U.S. citizenship during his application process, with the Iowa Department of Education confirming he asserted this on his administrator license application. The situation raises questions about the effectiveness of background checks and the procedures followed by the school district in ensuring employee eligibility to work legally within the U.S.
Roberts has a notable background, having represented Guyana in the track events at the 2000 Olympics. Memories shared by former officials from Guyana reflect on his disciplined character and dedication to his early career back home.
