Des Moines Public Schools Settles Legal Battle With Executive Search Firm
Des Moines Public Schools has settled its legal dispute with JG Consulting, the search firm it hired to recruit former Superintendent Ian Roberts. The settlement comes after the district sued the firm for negligence and breach of contract, claiming it…
Des Moines Ames, IA, November 10, 2026 — Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS) has reached a settlement in its legal dispute with JG Consulting, an executive search firm previously engaged by the district. The resolution brings an end to the litigation that stemmed from the recruitment of former Superintendent Ian Roberts.
The legal proceedings involved dueling lawsuits between the school district and the search firm. Des Moines Public Schools had initiated legal action against JG Consulting, alleging negligence and breach of contract. The district’s claims centered on the assertion that the firm failed to adequately vet candidates considered for the superintendent position.
In response to the district’s lawsuit and subsequent events, JG Consulting filed a countersuit. The search firm alleged defamation. This claim arose following the arrest of Ian Roberts, the former superintendent recruited by JG Consulting, on immigration violation charges. The specifics of the settlement agreement, including financial terms and other conditions, were not immediately disclosed.
DMPS had hired JG Consulting to find a candidate to fill the role of superintendent. The district’s subsequent lawsuit against the firm highlighted concerns regarding the hiring process and the background checks conducted on potential candidates. The firm’s countersuit brought forth allegations of reputational damage in the wake of public scrutiny following Mr. Roberts’ arrest.
The settlement marks the conclusion of this protracted legal conflict, allowing both Des Moines Public Schools and JG Consulting to move forward without the ongoing burden of litigation. Further details regarding the terms of the settlement have not been made public at this time.
Story summarized from the original created by Isabella Luu on www.iowapublicradio.org, see more information here.
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