August 29, 2024 -- For the sixth graders at Columbus City Preparatory School for Boys (CCPSB), the tie-tying ceremony on Aug. 28, 2024, marked a fresh start. Seventh-grader Malachi Dudley, who had participated before, was again eager to be part of the annual tradition.
“I loved all the motivation that was given and I love all the community support that was shown to my school,” Dudley said. “I get to see all these motivational speakers and know that I will be one of them one day.”
The tie-tying ceremony is a significant rite of passage at CCPSB. Every scholar wears the school uniform of white or maroon Oxford shirts with the CCPSB crest and black pants, but ties distinguish the students by grade level.
Dudley’s black tie signified his advancement to seventh grade, while sixth graders wore maroon, and eighth graders sported maroon and black striped ties.
Since the school’s inception in 2010, CCPSB kicked off each school year with this ceremony, where community leaders and family members teach the young men how to tie a tie.
Representatives from organizations like 100 Black Men of Central Ohio, My Brother’s Keeper, and the National Pan-Hellenic Council attended in their best suits and ties. CCS staff, City of Columbus and Franklin County employees, and other community leaders, also showed up showcasing their commitment to unity, brotherhood, and school pride. Even former Ohio State, NFL, and XFL quarterback Cardale Jones showed up to deliver a keynote address and tie some ties.
“The idea is not just that we are teaching them how to tie a tie but the idea is that we are committing to their academic success, and their social success,” said CCPSB principal Dr. Michael Warren.
As they tied the ties, community members could be overheard offering advice on everything from tie length to coordinating the colors of ties with shoes and belts. They also questioned the boys about their lives and future plans.
"Today was impactful for [our students] because it gave them hope and unification,"Safety and Security Specialist Dearro Edgington said, as he highlighted the importance of the day’s event. "Having this event showed students that people care. Seeing the reactions and knowing they were getting the help and tools needed from various people showed them a different pattern in a different light."
Eighth-grader Jaylon Graves, who honed his tie-tying skills since sixth grade, appreciated the value of the annual ritual.
“As young men, we need to know how to tie our ties to stand out for opportunities like college,” Graves noted. “These men cared enough to teach us that.”
Sixth-grader Kareem Lipson enjoyed his first tie-tying ceremony, particularly the community's spirit.
“I loved how everyone came together,” Lipson shared. “I liked seeing these men, who were once in our shoes, show us that we can become like them one day.”
Area Superintendent Stephanie Patton felt proud at the event as the community and CCS showed love for the boys.
“I just think that it means a lot that our boys know that they are cared for and nurtured,” Patton said. “A lot of times we don’t show that affection to our boys so this offers an opportunity to show that not only does their school care, but so does the community.”
Columbus City Schools Superintendent/CEO Dr. Angela Chapman echoed that sentiment.
"Our students are at the heart of everything we do, and Columbus City Schools serves as a space where they are nurtured and supported," Dr. Chapman said. "Today demonstrates our deep commitment to preparing the next generation of leaders. No matter the challenges they face outside of school, we ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed."
