There’s a new sheriff in town at Clyde-Savannah Central School, and his name is Jared Panek.
Clyde-Savannah CSD named Officer Panek as its new school resource officer over the summer. He is responsible for ensuring the safety of students and staff throughout the district and maintaining a secure school environment.
Panek brings a wealth of experience in school security roles to his new position, having previously served in the Williamson Central School District and the Newark Central School District, his alma mater. Though he has worked law enforcement and security roles in a number of different settings, Panek is most fond of working in schools.
“I really enjoy building relationships with kids,” says Panek. “I think it makes a big difference when you tell them good morning, and greet them with a smile.”
Panek also spent two years in the Village of Newark Police Department, where the relationships he forged at Newark CSD served him well.
“I would interact with former students who knew me when I worked at [Newark Central School]. Because they saw me as a positive role model when they were kids, I think they felt less intimidated.”
Panek is an avid Chicago Bears fan, and also enjoys playing video games in his spare time. He lives in Newark with his wife and two pets, a dog and a cat.
Panek looks forward to connecting with the students and staff at Clyde-Savannah CSD.
“When I was in school, I didn’t have a school resource officer to look up to,” Panek explains. “I try to be the role model who shows kids that being in law enforcement can be a good thing.”