Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS) interim superintendent Matt Smith recently addressed the district's ongoing challenges and future plans. This discussion comes after the arrest of former superintendent Ian Roberts, which led to significant public scrutiny. Smith emphasized the need to restore confidence among families and staff while focusing on student success.
Key Takeaways
- Matt Smith is serving as interim superintendent through the 2026-2027 school year.
- The district is facing scrutiny after the arrest of former superintendent Ian Roberts on federal gun charges and issues regarding his work authorization.
- DMPS is pursuing legal action against the search firm that recommended Roberts.
- A $265 million bond referendum, the 'Reimagining Education Plan,' is crucial for district improvements and avoiding staff cuts.
- Governor Kim Reynolds issued an executive order requiring state agencies, including schools, to use E-Verify for employment eligibility.
Leadership Transition and Community Trust
Matt Smith, who has served DMPS for over 15 years, stepped into the interim superintendent role following Ian Roberts' detainment. Smith previously held the interim position in 2022. His appointment aims to provide stability during a period of uncertainty for Iowa's largest school district.
The arrest of former superintendent Ian Roberts on federal gun charges, coupled with revelations about his work authorization and resume discrepancies, has shaken public trust. Federal immigration authorities stated Roberts lacked legal work authorization when hired. The school board reported Roberts provided a driver's license and Social Security card claiming U.S. citizenship.
"Clearly, the systems that we have in place have not been the best, and that's what we need to change," Smith stated, acknowledging the need for systemic improvements within the district.
Addressing Public Concerns
During a recent school board meeting, community members expressed a range of emotions. Some offered support and gratitude to board members, while others voiced frustration and called for accountability. Critics argued the board was responsible for Roberts' hiring and the subsequent issues.
The district is now suing the search firm responsible for vetting Roberts. However, some community members are demanding a third-party investigation into what the board knew about Roberts' background. Board members could not directly respond during the public meeting but later acknowledged the need for self-reflection and change.
Fast Fact
Ian Roberts is currently held in Polk County Jail, facing federal gun charges. His arrest triggered an investigation into his employment eligibility and past records.
The Reimagining Education Plan and Its Stakes
Amidst leadership changes, DMPS is preparing for a critical $265 million bond referendum. This initiative, known as the 'Reimagining Education Plan,' seeks to modernize school facilities, expand preschool access, and enhance career and technical training programs over the next five years.
The bond requires 60% voter approval to pass. If approved, the average household would see an increase of approximately $200 per year in property taxes. District leaders argue this investment is vital to reverse declining student enrollment, which has seen a loss of over 2,000 students in the past seven years.
Potential Consequences of Bond Failure
Interim Superintendent Smith highlighted the severe repercussions if the bond fails. "There's a lot at risk here," he warned. The district's budget is 83% dedicated to staffing. Without the bond, significant staff cuts would become necessary, potentially increasing annually.
Additionally, more school buildings would need to be taken offline. Smith stressed that the plan is not just about infrastructure but also about improving student outcomes through enhanced programming. This includes offering students experiences with clear pathways to the workforce, industry-recognized credentials, and advanced placement coursework.
"If nothing changes, then nothing changes in terms of student outcomes and student results," Smith emphasized. "This is a generational input for us as a community, but it also is a value add for homeowners. Investments like this tend to actually improve and increase property values. It spurs on economic development in our city."
Enrollment Decline
DMPS has experienced a loss of more than 2,000 students over the last seven years. This trend underscores the urgency for initiatives like the bond referendum to attract and retain families within the district.
New State Requirements for Employment Verification
In response to the Roberts situation, Governor Kim Reynolds issued an executive order implementing new requirements for employment eligibility verification. All state agencies, including school districts, must now use E-Verify when hiring new employees.
E-Verify is a system that allows employers to check an individual's employment eligibility with the Department of Homeland Security. Additionally, the executive order mandates the use of the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program, which is exclusively for government agencies to verify immigration status.
Impact on Des Moines Schools
Smith confirmed DMPS would comply with the new state law. "We will absolutely take in the Governor's new law and we will apply," he stated. The district is working with its attorneys to ensure compliance with both federal and state audits.
While E-Verify generally works well, experts like employment attorney William Hale note it is not foolproof. False documents or stolen identities can still bypass the system. Hale recommends that districts, even if the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners runs E-Verify, conduct their own verification processes.
- E-Verify: Checks employment eligibility with the Department of Homeland Security.
- SAVE Program: Verifies immigration status, available only to government agencies.
- Current Enrollment: Approximately 45 districts in Iowa are currently enrolled in E-Verify.
Prioritizing Students and Staff Well-being
In his interim role, Matt Smith's immediate focus is on the students and the district's dedicated staff. He acknowledged the emotional toll recent events have taken on the community, particularly on students who viewed Roberts as a role model.
Smith urged students to lean on staff, who are trained to help process complex emotions. He emphasized the importance of continuous improvement within the organization, reflecting on practices to enhance processes regardless of the challenge.
"The continuity that matters the most is what's happening in our schools," Smith explained, referring to the consistent efforts of educators, leaders, and support staff. He aims to ensure staff members feel supported through professional development and mutual encouragement.
Smith has not yet decided if he will apply for the permanent superintendent position after his two-year interim term. His current priority remains leading the district through its immediate challenges and focusing on student outcomes.
Staffing is Key
83% of the DMPS budget is allocated to staffing. Any significant budget cuts due to the bond referendum failing would heavily impact personnel.
The Legacy of State Senator Claire Celsi
The interview also touched upon the recent passing of State Senator Claire Celsi at age 59. Celsi, a Democratic state senator from West Des Moines, was known for her outspoken advocacy for women, the elderly, and public education.
Colleagues and friends remembered Celsi as a "fearless advocate and truth teller." Republican State Representative Eddie Andrews noted that "you never had to worry about where she stood." Her commitment to public schools and her constituents left a lasting impact on Iowa politics.
A special election is scheduled for December 30th to fill Celsi's seat in State Senate District 16, which covers parts of Clive, Windsor Heights, and West Des Moines.
Iowa Farmers Face Soybean Trade Challenges
The broader economic context affecting Iowa was also discussed, specifically the challenges faced by farmers due to the ongoing trade dispute with China. China, a major buyer of U.S. soybeans, has halted purchases due to tariff policies.
Farmer Mike Brailsford, who farms 6,000 acres, described the situation as the worst for farmers since the 1980s farm crisis. Many farmers are investing in additional grain storage, like Brailsford's $1.2 million project, to avoid selling soybeans at a loss.
Farmers hope to store their crops until prices rebound, preferring to earn through market sales rather than taxpayer handouts. The soybean crisis highlights the interconnectedness of global trade and its direct impact on local economies.
