IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — The leader of Iowa's largest school district, Superintendent Ian Roberts, faced controversy as federal agents arrested him, citing allegations of living in the country illegally. The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners revoked his professional license on Monday, stating that Roberts no longer has legal presence in the United States. Roberts, originally from Guyana, had entered the U.S. on a student visa in 1999 and was detained by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after fleeing a traffic stop. ICE reported that he was apprehended with a loaded handgun, a hunting knife, and $3,000 in cash. Des Moines School officials were unaware of Roberts' immigration status, and they indicated that he had signed a form confirming his citizenship when he was hired in 2023. The school board acted swiftly to place Roberts on unpaid leave after learning from the Department of Homeland Security about his ineligibility to work. Following a closed meeting, the board moved to terminate his employment unless challenged by Roberts' attorney. The incident has raised concerns among students and staff who viewed Roberts as a passionate advocate during his two years in the position. As a precaution, Matt Smith has been appointed as interim superintendent during this tumultuous time.
Des Moines School Superintendent Ian Roberts Arrested, License Revoked Over Immigration Issues

Des Moines School Superintendent Ian Roberts Arrested, License Revoked Over Immigration Issues
Ian Roberts, the superintendent of Iowa's largest school district, arrested by ICE for residing in the U.S. illegally, leading to the revocation of his professional license and placement on unpaid leave.
The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners has revoked the professional license of Des Moines school district superintendent Ian Roberts after he was arrested by ICE for living in the U.S. illegally. Roberts, a native of Guyana, had been working in the district since 2023, previously verified as a citizen. Following the arrest, which included possession of a firearm, the school board has placed him on unpaid leave and has appointed an interim superintendent.