Des Moines Public Schools Under Federal Scrutiny Over Hiring Practices Following Superintendent's Arrest

Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS) is facing a federal investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) into its hiring practices, following the arrest and subsequent resignation of former Superintendent Ian Roberts. Roberts, who led Iowa’s largest school district, was arrested by federal immigration agents on September 26, 2025, and charged with being a noncitizen in possession of firearms, having allegedly lived and worked illegally in the United States. His resignation was accepted by the school board on September 30.

The controversy surrounding Roberts' employment has brought renewed attention to the district's recruitment strategies. Reports indicate that Roberts' resume contained false claims regarding his doctoral degrees, a fact the DMPS board was reportedly aware of prior to his hiring. Des Moines Public Schools has since filed a lawsuit against JG Consulting, the firm tasked with vetting candidates, alleging negligence and breach of contract for failing to uncover critical details about Roberts' background, including his immigration status and criminal history.

The broader implications of such practices were highlighted by Rhyen Staley, who stated in a recent tweet, "> K-12 school districts across the country have embedded race-based hiring practices and screening for adherence to far-left ideology. The case of Ian Roberts and Des Moines Public Schools is just one example of many." Staley, writing for The Hill, detailed how DMPS's affirmative action plan included recruitment goals, such as increasing the "number of teachers of color in kindergarten by 8 percent" and "in second grade by 5 percent," alongside programs focusing on "equity and cultural proficiency."

The DOJ's investigation will determine whether DMPS engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination based on race, color, or national origin, potentially violating federal employment law. This federal inquiry, announced on September 30, comes amidst increasing scrutiny of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and race-based hiring preferences in educational institutions nationwide. Critics argue these policies may prioritize identity over merit and raise legal concerns.

The fallout has also subjected DMPS school board members to significant backlash and harassment, with Board Chair Jackie Norris reporting racist and sexist messages. The district's decision not to use the federal E-Verify system for employment eligibility checks has also drawn criticism. The ongoing investigations and legal actions underscore the complex challenges public school districts face in navigating hiring processes, legal compliance, and public accountability.