Solon Schools Install New Security Director

SOLON, OH — Jason Bender was officially introduced as the new security director for the Solon Schools this week.

Bender will replace Jeff Pedicino, who plans to retire at the end of the month. The duo have been working together for weeks to transfer knowledge of facilities and security plans. Bender is already a familiar face in all Solon Schools buildings, district officials said at this week's Board of Education meeting.

"As anticipated, the transition has been smooth. We look forward to Jay building onthe strong foundation Jeff has established for us in the Solon Schools," officials said in a statement.

Bender was first appointed as Pedicino's successor in November. He has a long history with the district, having graduated from Solon High in 1985. He then earned a degree in journalism from Ohio University in 1989. He then worked as a reporter from 1989 to 1993 before changing career paths and joining the Solon police department.

He began work as a patrol officer with the Solon police department in 1993. He has advanced through the ranks as an intelligence liaison officer, juvenile officer and he began work in the detective bureau in 2020.

Bender retired from the police force so he could transition to his role with the school system.