Dr. Ian Roberts is an American educator and former Olympic athlete, currently serving as the 15th Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools since July 1, 2023. With more than two decades of experience in education, he is admired for his culturally responsive leadership and strong focus on equity. Born in Guyana and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Roberts blends his immigrant background with athletic discipline from his Olympic career to guide his work in schools.
He has built a reputation as a transformative leader, but in September 2025, he faced controversy following an ICE arrest that brought his immigration status under scrutiny. Despite this, he remains a respected voice in American education.
Dr. Ian Roberts Wiki/Bio
| Full Name | Ian Andre Roberts |
| Date of Birth | December 18, 1973 |
| Age | 51 years (as of 2025) |
| Profession | Educator, Superintendent, Former Olympic Athlete |
| Hometown | Georgetown, Guyana (raised in Brooklyn, New York, USA) |
| Current Residence | Des Moines, Iowa, USA |
| Nationality | American (born in Guyana) |
| Zodiac Sign | Sagittarius |
Dr. Ian Roberts Early Life
Dr. Ian Roberts was born on December 18, 1973, in Georgetown, Guyana, before moving to Brooklyn, New York, with his family. Growing up in an immigrant household, he learned resilience, discipline, and the importance of education. In Brooklyn, he also discovered his passion for track and field, excelling as a mid-distance runner. These early experiences—combining athletics with his family’s values—shaped the character that would later drive his educational leadership.
Dr. Ian Roberts Education
Roberts began his higher studies at Coppin State University in Baltimore, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He then obtained a master’s degree from St. Louis University and later completed a doctorate from Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business. His academic journey focused on equity, culturally responsive practices, and leadership, laying the foundation for his superintendent roles.
Dr. Ian Roberts Career Highlights
Dr. Ian Roberts’ professional career reflects both athletics and education. As a runner, he represented Guyana in the 800 meters at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, a major achievement that showcased his discipline and resilience.
Transitioning into education, he began as a special education teacher before moving into school leadership. He was recognized as Principal of the Year by George Washington University in 2013 for his transformative work in Washington, D.C. Over the years, he served in leadership roles across St. Louis, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and the South Bronx.
From 2020 to 2023, he served as Superintendent of Millcreek Township School District in Pennsylvania, and in July 2023, he was appointed Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools. His focus on equity and culturally responsive practices has been central to his career. In early 2025, he launched the Reimagining Education plan, aimed at reshaping instruction and student support.
Career Milestones
| Milestone | Details |
| Olympic Debut | Competed in the 800m for Guyana at the Sydney Olympics (2000) |
| Principal of the Year | Honored by George Washington University (2013) |
| Superintendent Role | Led Millcreek Township School District (2020–2023) |
| Des Moines Superintendent | Appointed 15th superintendent (July 1, 2023) |
| Reimagining Education | District-wide equity plan (early 2025) |
| ICE Arrest | Detained amid immigration questions (September 2025) |
Dr. Ian Roberts Net Worth and Income
- Estimated Net Worth: $1–5 million (as of 2025)
- Annual Income: $250,000–$350,000 as superintendent
- Income Sources: Superintendent salary, possible athletic earnings, speaking engagements
His financial stability comes mainly from his roles in education, with his Des Moines salary averaging around $300,000 annually.
Dr. Ian Roberts Controversies
The major controversy in Roberts’ life emerged on September 26, 2025, when he was arrested by ICE at his Des Moines home. Authorities questioned his U.S. citizenship status, alleging he was born in Guyana in 1970, despite Roberts identifying as a naturalized American raised in Brooklyn.
The arrest has sparked public debate, especially given his leadership role in education and his work on equity. Supporters see it as a political distraction, while critics call for clarification. Prior to this, Roberts had no significant controversies attached to his career.
BREAKING: A senior ICE official tells @FoxNews that today, ICE arrested the Superintendent of Des Moines, Iowa Public Schools, Dr. Ian Andre Roberts, who ICE says is an illegal alien from Guyana & and active ICE fugitive with a deportation order since May 2024. Fox is told Dr.… pic.twitter.com/623WGDpqZb
— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) September 26, 2025
Dr. Ian Roberts Recent Updates
- ICE Arrest: Detained at his Des Moines home on September 26, 2025.
- District Response: Interim Superintendent Matt Degner assured continuity in leadership.
- Reimagining Plan: Early 2025 rollout gained attention but was overshadowed by the arrest.
- Olympic Legacy: Media highlighted his 2000 Sydney Games appearance amid coverage.
- Community Support: As of late September 2025, many educators and community members are rallying for clarity on his case.
Also Read this:
- Russell Henley Biography – Age, Height, Wife, Family, Net Worth and More
- Howard Rubin Biography – Early Life, Age, Career, Controversies and More
- Hannah Palmer Biography – Age, Height, Career, Family, Relationship and More
- Shotaro Odate Biography – Age, Early Life, Career and More
- John Stapleton Biography – Age, Wife, Career, Family and More
- Dimitri Vorbe Biography – Early Life, Career, Family and More