Superintendent Ian Roberts’ ICE Detention Sparks Community Outcry

Ian Roberts, superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools and a longtime educator, was detained Friday morning in Iowa during an immigration enforcement operation. Roberts, who oversees the state’s largest district with over 30,000 students, has built a decades-long career dedicated to education after once competing in the 2000 Sydney Olympics for Guyana. The Department of Homeland Security alleged he possessed a firearm and cash at the time of his arrest, but school officials emphasized that Roberts disclosed a past firearm-related charge during his hiring process and was granted a superintendent’s license in July 2023.

The detention drew a swift response from the community, with students, teachers, and advocacy groups rallying to highlight his accomplishments and leadership. “The superintendent was an integral part of our school community,” said school board president Jackie Norris. “He has shown up in ways big and small for students and staff.” Demonstrators outside the federal courthouse carried signs reading, “Education, not deportation / Free Dr. Roberts.”

Roberts’ career spans leadership positions in New York City, Baltimore, Washington D.C., St. Louis, Oakland, and Erie, Pennsylvania. He is described by colleagues as a “tremendous advocate” who consistently centers equity and opportunity for students. The Iowa State Education Association and Des Moines Education Association released a joint statement calling him “a beacon of light in one of the state’s most diverse school districts.” Community organizations such as The Directors Council echoed this support, noting that Roberts “has been a trusted partner, a dedicated advocate for equity, and an unwavering supporter of families and youth in Polk County.”

Educators stressed the need to protect his legacy of service. Teacher Mary Pat LaMair said, “It’s really important that we take care of one another… the general public, I think, is not okay with what’s happening.” Hundreds gathered at Corinthian Baptist Church for a service in support of Roberts, reflecting the widespread belief that his work extends far beyond administrative duties.

Roberts’ life story—from immigrant beginnings in Brooklyn, to Olympic athlete, to leading schools across the country—has been one of perseverance and commitment to young people. 

As one advocacy group put it, “His leadership and compassion for all students, regardless of background, identity, or family origin, are a beacon of light.” For many in Des Moines, his detention represents not just the loss of an administrator, but of a role model who dedicated his life to education and community.

Link: CNN