Oliver Olsen Appointed to State Board of Education

Oliver Olsen

GNAT-TV News Project

MONTPELIER– Governor Phil Scott has appointed former Independent State Representative Oliver Olsen of Londonderry to the Vermont State Board of Education. The appointment was announced Friday, May 18, in a prepared statement.

“While serving in the Legislature, Oliver demonstrated tremendous attention to detail, a clear understanding of education funding and policy, and a vigorous commitment to the rules and integrity of the process. He also worked on Act 46 and understands this law, in detail,” said Scott  in the press statement. “His knowledge and experience will be a very valuable addition to the State Board of Education as it completes its work on Act 46 and supports our efforts to improve equality and the quality of our public education system.”

Olsen is a former state representative who stepped down from that post last year. He had served as the state representative for Winhall, Stratton, Londonderry, Weston and Jamaica from 2010 to 2012, and then again, from 2014 until last year. During his first term he was a Republican, but ran as an Independent in 2014 and 2016. He  is currently the  moderator of the Taconic and Green School District.

In the press statement, Olsen said he is honored to serve on the State Board of Education. “The Governor has drawn attention to critical challenges facing our education system, including Vermont’s demographics and how we will sustainably fund our schools so that they continue to offer equitable and high-quality education to our kids,” Olsen said. “As a parent of three, I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with the Board to help find solutions to these challenges and build on – and enhance – the state’s strengths.”

The State Board of Education, working with the Agency of Education, provides leadership, support and oversight to ensure the implementation and enforcement of laws governing public education in Vermont.