Des Moines, Iowa — The Des Moines Public Schools are grappling with serious concerns following a report revealing critical failures in the background checks conducted when hiring former superintendent Ian Roberts. In a federal indictment, Roberts faces charges for allegedly falsely claiming U.S. citizenship on his employment eligibility forms.
The report, authored by attorney Melissa Schilling, highlights that the school district received an abbreviated background check executed by JG Consulting, the consulting firm that assisted in the superintendent hiring process. It is suggested that Roberts provided a potentially forged transcript during his application process, claiming a doctorate he did not obtain.
As the district prepares to engage in an ongoing lawsuit against JG Consulting, they face criticism for possibly attempting to shift liability toward the consulting firm responsible for vetting his background. The report raises questions about the sufficiency of using external consultants for critical hiring duties, especially concerning sensitive positions like that of a school superintendent.
Roberts was arrested on September 26 and had previously resigned from his position pending trial, currently set for March. He had inaccurately reported his immigration status and provided fraudulent documentation, relying on the assumption that JG Consulting would scrutinize any immigration issues due to their representation as a registered agent with the federal employment eligibility verification system, E-Verify.
The investigation reveals a broader narrative around system flaws, where employers are compelled to ensure compliance with laws regarding employment eligibility but often rely on third-party firms to verify sensitive information. This case has highlighted the potential pitfalls in the hiring processes of educational institutions and begs the question of whether sufficient checks are in place to avoid misuse of the position and misrepresentation by candidates.
As federal authorities outline Roberts' extensive criminal history, including past convictions that were entrenched in issues of violence and possession, it underscores the need for a more vigilant approach to background checks in all sectors, particularly where the welfare of children is concerned.
