DOJ Investigates Des Moines Public Schools Over Alleged Discriminatory Hiring Practices

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated an investigation into Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS) to assess whether the district's employment practices discriminate based on race, color, or national origin, potentially violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This federal probe coincides with the recent resignation of Superintendent Ian Roberts, who stepped down following his detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to alleged immigration violations.

The DOJ's investigation focuses on several DMPS initiatives aimed at increasing diversity among its teaching staff. These include an affirmative action plan that sets specific quotas to boost the number of teachers of color in elementary grades, a staff retention strategy emphasizing the amplification of voices from people of color, and the "3D Coalition," a recruitment and hiring program targeting aspiring minority teachers.

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon stated, "DEI initiatives and race-based hiring preferences in our schools violate federal anti-discrimination laws and undermine educational priorities." She urged school districts to cease these programs and restore merit-based employment practices.

DMPS has acknowledged receipt of the DOJ's letter and is currently reviewing the matter.

This investigation is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to scrutinize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in educational institutions. Similar probes have been launched into DEI programs in schools and universities nationwide.

The situation is further complicated by the recent resignation of Superintendent Ian Roberts. Roberts, a native of Guyana, was detained by ICE due to a prior deportation order. He entered the U.S. on a student visa in 1999 and was given a final removal order by an immigration judge in May 2024. At the time of his arrest, Roberts was found in possession of a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a fixed blade hunting knife. Following his detention, the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners revoked his education license, stating that he no longer possesses legal presence in the United States. Roberts resigned to prevent distractions within the school system.

The DOJ's investigation into DMPS's hiring practices highlights the ongoing national debate over DEI initiatives in education. Supporters argue that such programs are essential for addressing historical inequities and promoting a diverse educational environment. Critics contend that race-based hiring practices may violate federal anti-discrimination laws and undermine merit-based employment. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for how school districts nationwide implement DEI policies.

Des Moines Public Schools is the largest public school district in Iowa, serving a diverse student population. In recent years, the district has faced challenges related to teacher recruitment and retention. For instance, during the 2023-2024 school year, DMPS experienced around 300 daily teacher absences, an increase from 250 the previous year. In response, district leaders planned to be more "creative" in their recruitment efforts, including targeting historically Black colleges to recruit more candidates of color.

The DOJ's investigation into DMPS's employment practices and the circumstances surrounding Superintendent Roberts' resignation underscore the complexities school districts face in balancing diversity initiatives with compliance to federal laws. As the investigation unfolds, it will be closely watched for its potential impact on educational policies and practices nationwide.