ICE nabs Des Moines Superintendent of Schools

DES MOINES – ICE swooped into Iowa’s capitol city and invaded the state’s largest school district and nabbed their leader on unspecified charges, and now officials are scrambling to figure out what is next.

Des Moines school district made the announcement today, revealing that Dr. Ian Roberts (pictured at top, via DMPS) was being detained by Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents Friday morning.

MESSAGE FROM DES MOINES SCHOOL BOARD CHAIR JACKIE NORRIS:

On behalf of the Board of the Des Moines Public Schools, I wish to share information of immediate importance to the DMPS community. Pursuant to the Board-approved DMPS leadership succession plan, Matt Smith, Associate Superintendent, will immediately step into the role of Interim Superintendent until further notice. This action follows Dr. Ian Roberts being detained by Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents this morning. We have no confirmed information as to why Dr. Roberts is being detained or the next potential steps. Our priority is to provide a safe, secure and outstanding education for all students and to support our students, families, and employees. The appointment of Mr. Smith as Interim Superintendent ensures that our District continues to operate at the highest level. Mr. Smith previously served DMPS as Interim Superintendent during the 2022-2023 school year. The Board has the highest confidence in Mr. Smith’s leadership at this time. We know you have many questions, and we will provide updates as we learn more confirmed information. We thank you and appreciate your support.
Jackie Norris, Board President
Des Moines Public Schools

Des Moines Public Schools is facing significant budget shortfalls, leading to millions in cuts for the 2024-25 school year and requiring cuts of $14 million to address the deficit. Factors contributing to the deficit include reduced federal funding, a lack of substantial state funding increases, and declining student enrollment