The Des Moines Public Schools superintendent, taken into custody by U.S. immigration officials, had HBCU athletic ties.
Ian Andre Roberts was arrested by ICE on Friday on an accusation of being in the country illegally despite living and working in America for more than 30 years, according to various reports.
Roberts, a native of Guyana and Coppin State’s first Olympic athlete, graduated from the HBCU in 1998 before launching a distinguished career in education.
He competed in the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games in track and field for Guyana as a mid-distance runner. He ran in the fourth heat of the 800-meter race with a time of 1.52.32. He placed seventh in his heat, according to Olympedia.
He previously served as principal in Baltimore City Schools, including as the founding principal of the Friendship Academy of Science and Technology, and held leadership roles in Washington, D.C., schools.
ICE officials cited a previous weapons charge and reported Roberts was found with a loaded firearm after fleeing police. A final order of removal was issued by a judge in 2024.
Roberts’ arrest has sparked protests in Iowa and deep concern among school officials.
“What we do know is Dr. Roberts has been an integral part of our school community since he joined more than two years ago,” said Jackie Norris, chair of the Des Moines school board, during a press conference Friday.
Interim superintendent Matt Smith echoed the distraught mood of the school community, stating, “We stand firm with our community. Many of whom are feeling sad, outraged, and helpless. We understand, as we too are devastated by the news of his detainment.”
Roberts, whose inspirational leadership made him a role model for many, remains in ICE custody with his future uncertain.
