Dr. Romules Durant: Transforming Urban Education Through Visionary Leadership
A visionary leader and home-grown champion for urban education, Dr. Romules Durant is the current CEO and Superintendent of Toledo Public Schools (TPS). Now in his 13th year leading Ohio’s fourth-largest urban school district, Dr. Durant is the longest-serving superintendent in the Council of the Great City Schools’ national network, a testament to his enduring impact, stability, and strategic foresight.
In recognition of his work, Dr. Durant was awarded the prestigious Green-Garner Award in 2024 naming him the Urban Educator of the Year, the nation's highest honor in urban public education.
A proud graduate from Waite High School, Dr. Durant earned three degrees, including a doctorate, from the University of Toledo, which also awarded him an honorary doctorate in pedagogy in 2024.
Under his leadership, TPS has become recognized as a national model for specialized, career-connected learning for students. Dr. Durant has championed the creation of seven specialized magnet high schools, all of which are designed to ignite a dedicated learner’s interest and build direct pipelines to employment for students upon graduation. In August of 2026, he participated in a panel discussion at an international conference about workforce development and the district’s efforts to expand career prep programs.
His boldest project to date is the redevelopment of the Scott Park campus. Upon completion, this vibrant community hub will integrate educational programs for students in grades 7 – 12, college-level courses for adult learners, a sports dome, and residential housing.
Driven by an unwavering belief in public education as an engine for economic and social mobility, Dr. Durant has been featured on the Discovery Channel’s Courageous Leaders series and has secured historic community backing, leading eight successful levy campaigns.
He has also has been inducted into five Halls of Fame and serves on a dozen regional boards. There is never a doubt that Dr. Durant is now, and forevermore, TPS Proud.
MEDIA DOWNLOADS
Dr. Durant Professional Bio
Dr. Durant Resume - Updated January, 2025
Dr. Durant Downloadable Photo