Ian Andre Roberts, Principal of Public Schools in Des Moines, Iowa, has been placed on unpaid leave following his arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which comes after he reportedly received a six-figure salary within the district.
According to reports, Roberts was arrested last week by ICE agents who acted on a final deportation order from a federal immigration judge issued in May 2024. During the arrest, agents found a fixed-blade knife, a loaded handgun, and $3,000 in cash in a vehicle assigned to him.
It has been reported that Roberts earned a base salary around $286,000, having submitted employment eligibility forms that indicated he was a U.S. citizen while serving as a supervisor for Des Moines Public Schools since July 2023, including providing a Social Security number and driver’s license.
“It’s possible for two truths to coexist. Dr. Roberts is a capable and respected leader, yet there are significant doubts regarding his legal ability to fulfill his responsibilities related to citizenship and oversight,” a statement reads.
Roberts was appointed as principal by the School Board in July 2023 following a national search that involved input from various stakeholders within the school community to develop a leadership profile.
The school board emphasized Roberts’ passion for excellence in education, along with diversity, equity, and innovation.
According to ICE, Roberts initially came to the United States from Guyana on a student visa in 1999. His immigration status remains unclear, and although he was deported over a year ago, he continued to work as a school supervisor.
Roberts has also held positions in states including Maryland, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C.
