DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The largest school district in Iowa has issued a report indicating serious errors in the hiring of its former superintendent Ian Roberts, who currently faces federal charges for falsely claiming U.S. citizenship. The investigation uncovered that an abbreviated background check was conducted and that a transcript provided by Roberts appears to be forged.
Roberts was hired by Des Moines Public Schools in 2023, facilitated by JG Consulting, a national firm that recommended him among other candidates. However, the investigation led by attorney Melissa Schilling revealed that the school board relied heavily on JG Consulting to properly vet Roberts, suggesting the firm failed to disclose any limitations in their vetting process.
Roberts was arrested by federal agents on September 26 and has since resigned, currently awaiting trial on charges that include unlawfully possessing firearms while being in the country illegally. His upcoming trial is scheduled for March 2024.
According to Schilling's report, the background check conducted by JG Consulting, through a subcontractor, only examined records from the past seven years, which is notably insufficient for positions with salaries exceeding $75,000. While certain state laws may limit accessibility to arrest records if they didn't result in a conviction, Roberts' history includes a 2012 reckless driving conviction and drug charges dating back to 1996, neither of which was disclosed in his vetting.
Additionally, Roberts has claimed to hold a doctorate in urban educational leadership from Morgan State University, a claim that is unverified. Schilling indicated confidence that the transcript provided by Roberts was likely forged.
In response to the findings, Des Moines Public Schools is pursuing legal action against JG Consulting, arguing that the firm is attempting to deflect responsibility. JG Consulting, however, maintains that the school district was obliged to properly verify Roberts' immigration and work authorization status, asserting that the firm could not confirm these as a non-hiring entity.
The ongoing fallout from this case raises critical questions about the accountability of hiring firms and schools in ensuring qualified and legally compliant personnel.
