Young Men of Excellence (YMOE) and Young Women of Excellence (YWOE) were established by Dr. Romulus Durant in May 2011 to empower young men and women in grades fifth through 12thto form a brotherhood/sisterhood in Toledo Public Schools. The purpose is to connect a diverse group of males to one another in the pursuit of excellence in a variety of contexts, including, but not limited to, social interactions, academic and moral development, community engagement and leadership.
YMOE/YWOE members are engaged in many activities that include planning, implementing and leading community service projects, morning announcements, peer tutoring, open discussions, career exploration, field trips, multicultural events and financial literacy activities.
The long-term purpose of the program is to increase the graduation success of male students in the Toledo Public School District, as well as expose members to post-secondary access options.
YMOE/YWOE groups are referred to as “Chapters” which are made up of a unit of young men, typically from the same school, who meet regularly following the predetermined monthly theme. Each Chapter is customized to meet the individual needs and interests of the young men. Chapters are supported by two or more volunteer advisors who adhere to the YMOE/YWOE mission, goals, purpose and nine pillars of brotherhood.
Individuals interested in becoming an advisor in their school should discuss this opportunity with their school’s administration. Advisors must be willing to attend an orientation and ongoing training on the tools and resources used to implement the YMOE/YWOE program.
YMOE/YWOE are financially supported by several community partners for administrative expenses however, each Chapter may be responsible for identifying their own financial support for uniforms and specific extracurricular activities they choose to participate in. Advisors are encouraged to work closely with their school administrators to identify funds to support their Chapter. Groups can also participate in money earning activities throughout the year to cover their own costs. Chapters must follow all Toledo Public School fundraising policies and procedures.