The Des Moines School district hires Ian Roberts as its first Black superintendent

After a nationwide search, the Des Moines School district has announced Ian Roberts will become its 15th superintendent. This is the first time the district has hired a Black person as its superintendent, a district official said. He begins the position on July 1, according to a district press release. The state’s largest school district has 31,000 students, of which 20.6% are Black, according to 2021-2022 district data.

“When considering candidates, the board was looking for educational experience, academic excellence and a passion for innovation and inspiration, and we found those qualities and more in Dr. Roberts,” said Des Moines Public Schools Board Chair Teree Caldwell-Johnson, in a press release. “Dr. Roberts’ focus on creating equitable experiences for students to thrive, paired with his commitment to continuous improvement, creates an exciting opportunity for our students, staff and community.”

Roberts, 52, born to immigrant parents from Guyana, has served as superintendent of Millcreek Township School District, located in northwest Pennsylvania, the press release stated. He holds numerous degrees and certificates including a doctorate in Urban Educational Leadership, master’s degree in education from St. John’s University and the Harvard University Improving Schools: The Art of Leadership certificate, the district stated. 

Photo of Roberts courtesy of the Des Moines School District press release.