YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Five high school students were chosen to represent the Youngstown City School District by attending the American Legion’s Buckeye Boys State program.
The immersive weeklong program, held at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, educates young men about the rights, privileges, duties and responsibilities required for effective self-governance.
“We are incredibly proud of our scholars for being selected to attend Buckeye Boys State,” said YCSD Superintendent Jeremy Batchelor. “Their dedication to academics and commitment to community involvement embody the values we strive to promote at YCSD. Participation in Buckeye Boys State not only enriches their educational journey but also prepares them to be informed and engaged citizens.”
The YCSD students selected are De’Shawn Dawson, Derrick Hayes and Sir’Von Taylor, all of East High School, and Jaysean Hermilus Garcia and William Wallace, both of Youngstown Rayen Early College High School.
Buckeye Boys State participants have the chance to run for various elected positions, including mayor, treasurer, auditor and other appointed seats. Those seeking to be elected participated in party nominating caucuses at the city, county and state levels. They prepared and delivered speeches, engaged with fellow Buckeye Boys State delegates, invested in campaign materials and digital advertisements and campaigned to win the necessary votes for their nominations. Once elected or appointed, all delegates worked collaboratively to pass legislation, debate pressing issues, and hear court cases, among other activities.
“A city cannot function without collaboration. Communication is key,” said Hermilus Garcia, who was elected mayor.
Wallace, who served as the school district’s superintendent, shared a similar perspective. He found the experience to be both enjoyable and enlightening.
“It was eye-opening to realize how many individuals it takes to run a school district and how vital it is for everyone to work together,” he said.