Story perspectives
Des Moines Schools Choose Charismatic Leader for Change
10/5/2025
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Story summary
- In 2023, Des Moines Public Schools sought a superintendent to boost reading and math scores.
- The district sought a leader aligned with an affirmative action plan and post-Covid racial justice concerns.
- Ian Roberts applied, citing urban-education experience and reputation as a charismatic administrator.
- Roberts is a Guyana-born immigrant and Olympic competitor who authored books and earned degrees from universities.
