Popular Retired Solon High Principal Dies After Fall

A popular former Solon High School principal who helped build one of the best high schools in the state and country died Tuesday. 

Edward James Kotora, of Solon, died from injuries related to a recent fall. He was 75.

“The Solon Schools lost a true friend with the passing of Jim Kotora,” said Solon Superintendent Joe Regano in a news release. “As principal, Jim bridged the gap between the ‘70s and the ‘90s, which culminated in Solon High School being named a National Blue Ribbon School. He was truly a students’ principal, who always worked with students to achieve the best outcome. They loved him and the community embraced his leadership while he was with us. We send our deepest condolences to his family.”

According to a news release from the school district, Kotora worked for the school district from 1972 to 1994. Before becoming a principal, Kotora taught music. He was the vocal music director in Garfield Heights and Vermilion from 1958 until 1972.

A 1954 graduate of Steubenville High School, Kotora earned a degree in music from Muskingum College in 1958 and a master’s in education from the University of Akron in 1972.

Funeral arrangements are private. The family will hold a memorial service in the Solon High School auditorium at a date to be announced.