DES MOINES, Iowa – Dr. Elias Vance, the superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials, school district officials confirmed late Tuesday, sending shockwaves through the community and the state’s largest school district.
The detention reportedly occurred early Tuesday morning. Details surrounding the reasons for Dr. Vance’s apprehension remain scarce, with school officials stating they have received limited information from federal authorities.
Ms. Eleanor Hayes, President of the Des Moines School Board, addressed reporters in an impromptu press conference Tuesday afternoon.
“We are utterly blindsided and deeply concerned by this development. Dr. Vance has been a dedicated and respected leader in our district for the past five years. Our immediate priority is to understand the full circumstances of his detention and to ensure the continued smooth operation of our schools.”
Ms. Hayes indicated that the district was working to gather more information and provide support, though specific actions were hampered by the lack of official communication from ICE regarding the nature of the detention.
A spokesperson for ICE declined to comment on the matter, citing agency policy not to discuss individual cases. However, federal immigration authorities typically detain individuals based on suspected violations of immigration law, which can range from overstaying a visa to entering the country without authorization, or other enforcement actions.
Dr. Vance, a prominent figure in Iowa education, joined Des Moines Public Schools in 2020 and has been widely credited with several initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes and equity within the district. His sudden absence leaves the district grappling with an unforeseen leadership void.
The school board has announced that Deputy Superintendent Dr. Sarah Chen will assume duties as interim superintendent effective immediately, ensuring continuity in leadership as the situation unfolds.
The detention has sparked a flurry of reactions from local politicians, community advocates, and parents, many of whom expressed confusion and concern over the well-being of the superintendent and the potential implications for the district.
Source: Read the original article here.
