Becca Smith Is New SMS Assistant Principal

The tradition of Solon Schools excellence runs deep for Rebecca Smith, who was approved as Solon Middle School's new assistant principal during today's Solon Board of Education meeting. Mrs. Smith will begin her new role effective August 1, joining the administrative team in providing leadership for the middle school community.

"Becca exemplifies what it means to be a lifelong Solon Comet," said Solon Schools Superintendent Fred Bolden. "As a graduate who has grown up in our community and now has dedicated her professional career to our students, she brings a keen understanding of our district's values and commitment to excellence. She is an inspiring teacher who makes strong and authentic connections with students to propel their learning.  She has an exceptional ability to serve as both an instructional and collaborative leader among her peers.  We feel she is positioned perfectly for this new role."

Mrs. Smith's journey with Solon Schools spans her educational and professional life. A 2008 Solon High School graduate, she went on to earn her Bachelor's degree in Integrated Social Studies Education from Miami University in 2012, followed by a Master's in Mild to Moderate Special Education from Cleveland State University in 2015. Most recently, she completed her Certificate in Principal Preparation from American College of Education in 2024.

Her nine-year career in the Solon Schools has showcased versatility and leadership growth. Beginning as an intervention specialist at Solon Middle School from 2015-22, she demonstrated insight and skill in data-driven instruction, and excelled at curriculum adaptation and mentoring of fellow educators. Since 2022, she has been a social studies teacher and professional learning community team leader and collaborator at Solon High School, building strong relationships across the school community.

During the 2023-24 school year, Smith completed an Educational Leadership Internship at Solon High School that prepared her for administrative responsibilities. She implemented school-wide professional development on data-driven practices, developed curriculum templates, participated in professional learning communities across all subject areas, and assisted in creating the master schedule. Her experience overall spans multiple grade levels and roles, from coaching Solon Middle School girls soccer to advising Student Council at the high school.

"I'm incredibly excited and honored to step into the role of assistant principal at Solon Middle School," said Mrs. Smith. "After spending the past nine years here as a teacher, I've seen firsthand the dedication of our staff, the strength of our community and the potential of our students. It's an honor to continue serving in a new capacity and to support every student, every day."

Mrs. Smith and her husband Clay, a 2006 Solon High School graduate, have three children and reside in Burton.

Solon High School Administrative Changes

Two additional administrative changes have been announced to build on the leadership team at Solon High School. Carla Rodenbucher is transitioning into the assistant principal role leading curriculum and instruction implementation at Solon High School. Suzi Chin is moving from Solon Middle School to Solon High School to serve in the same assistant principal role.

Both of these changes were precipitated by the resignation of Erica Kosiorek, who resigned her Solon High School assistant principal position to become principal of West Geauga Middle School.

"We congratulate all of these outstanding staff members on their new positions," said Mr. Bolden. "We are confident that their skill sets and proven track records will enable them to excel in their new roles and continue advancing our mission of educational excellence for all Solon students."