DES MOINES — Questions are mounting over how thoroughly Iowa’s largest school district vetted former Superintendent Ian Roberts, after several universities refuted his long-standing claims about academic achievements and honors.
For years, Roberts, 54, asserted that he earned a doctorate in urban educational leadership from Morgan State University in 2007 and completed an MBA program at MIT’s Sloan School of Management. However, both universities have denied those claims.
Morgan State confirmed that although Roberts attended from 2002 through 2007, he did not receive a degree. MIT spokesperson Sarah McDonnell similarly stated that the school’s registrar has no record of Roberts ever enrolling.
Adding to the controversy, Roberts also claimed to have been named George Washington University’s “Principal of the Year.” But a university spokesperson said on Sept. 30 that no such award exists, and that the institution never recognized any D.C. principal with that title.
Arrest and Immigration Allegations
The revelations came just days after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrested Roberts, a native of Guyana, on Sept. 26. Authorities said an immigration judge had ordered his removal in May 2024, citing that he was not authorized to live or work in the United States.
Roberts’ arrest came about a year after he was hired as Des Moines’ superintendent, a position he has since resigned from following unpaid leave and the revocation of his administrator’s license by state officials.
District Acknowledges Gaps in Background Check
Des Moines Public Schools spokesperson Phil Roeder said the district’s background check included criminal, civil, and academic credential reviews — but did not verify honors or awards. He added that district officials “took him at his word” for accolades like the “Principal of the Year” title.
The district hired JG Consulting to lead the superintendent search, with a separate firm, Baker-Eubanks, handling background reviews. JG Consulting CEO James Guerra said “all required employment procedures” were followed, but emphasized that the school board had final hiring authority.
Board: ‘We Were Victims of Deception’
In an Oct. 1 statement, the Des Moines School Board said it was “also a victim of deception by Dr. Roberts” and vowed to improve its hiring process.
The board noted that Roberts had identified himself as a U.S. citizen on documentation in 2023. Although officials knew at the time that Roberts did not possess a Morgan State doctorate, they were unaware of the depth of inconsistencies in his background.
Community Divided Over Roberts’ Legacy
As news broke, about 20 supporters gathered outside the Neal Smith Federal Building in downtown Des Moines. Some acknowledged the questions surrounding Roberts’ credentials but argued that he had been a positive influence on students and families.
“He’s certainly been an asset to the community,” said Urbandale resident Gwyn Bertocki, adding that even if there was a “glitch” in his immigration paperwork, Roberts had “shown up for our kids.”
Legal Background and Immigration Proceedings
According to ICE, Roberts’ work authorization was revoked in May 2024 following a 2020 firearm charge filed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The case was sealed, but he later pleaded guilty to a 2021 Pennsylvania gun citation involving a loaded rifle in his vehicle.
Despite the immigration judge’s removal order, Roberts continued working for 16 months as superintendent. His lawyer, Alfredo Parrish, said Roberts believed he was authorized to work after receiving a March letter from an immigration attorney stating his “case had reached a successful resolution.”
Possible Doctorate from Online University
Roberts may hold a doctoral degree from Trident International University, an online, for-profit institution. A paper attributed to him in 2021 indicates he presented his dissertation there while serving as superintendent in Erie, Pennsylvania.
Trident officials have not confirmed whether Roberts received the degree. Similarly, Harvard and Georgetown — universities Roberts also claimed affiliations with — have not responded to verification requests.
Parrish maintained that Roberts holds a Trident doctorate but downplayed discrepancies in his résumé:
“Your resume can get all screwed up out online and with social media,” he said.
The unraveling of Ian Roberts’ educational claims and immigration status has left Des Moines Public Schools grappling with credibility concerns and calls for greater oversight.
The scandal underscores the importance of rigorous background checks — especially for top education leaders entrusted with shaping public trust and student success.
