DES MOINES, Iowa — Hundreds of residents rallied this weekend in support of Dr. Ian Andre Roberts, the superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested him for being in the country illegally and without work authorization.
Chants of “Free Dr. Roberts” and “No justice, no change” echoed through the streets as community members highlighted his contributions to Iowa’s largest school district. “I just really think it’s important we take care of one another, and we seem to be at a spot where that is not happening,” said Mary Paclamair, a Des Moines teacher who joined the protests.
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Roberts, a native of Guyana, has led the district since July 2023. NBC described him as a “career educator” with more than 20 years of experience in teaching, administration, and executive leadership, including previous roles as superintendent in Pennsylvania and Missouri. Despite his extensive background, ICE said Roberts remained in the U.S. without legal status, noting that he entered on a student visa in 1999 and was issued a final order of removal in May 2024.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds called the arrest alarming, citing reports that Roberts had attempted to evade authorities and was found with a loaded gun, a knife, and a large sum of cash. “Those who believe immigration laws are optional are dangerously wrong,” she said in a statement. “When laws are ignored, or when people are led to believe there will be no consequences, our communities are at risk. We must enforce the law, every time, to protect our families and our future.”
The district addressed the controversy in a Facebook-streamed press conference, which prompted a flood of comments from parents and residents. Reactions ranged from criticism of the school’s hiring process to strong defenses of Roberts’ character. “Did DMPS do a background check?” one person asked. Another commenter defended him: “His integrity, values, and love for our community, especially children, is exemplary. Please stop throwing stones.”
Many questioned the portrayal of Roberts, with one parent noting that carrying tools or cash can easily be explained and should not be used to define his character. Another comment read: “We the parents of Des Moines Public School children support your eventual return as Superintendent, Dr. Roberts.”
Roberts’ biography reflects an accomplished academic and athletic career. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Coppin State University, master’s degrees from St. John’s University and Georgetown University, and a doctorate in urban educational leadership from Trident University, along with several education certificates, including one from Harvard. Beyond his academic achievements, he represented Guyana as a track and field athlete at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney and competed in the World Championships in Japan and Spain.
Roberts attended Charlestown Government Secondary School in Guyana before pursuing higher education in the United States. His future in Iowa’s education system now remains uncertain as legal proceedings continue.
