Katie Olsen is a dedicated board member of New Dimensions Charter School, where she combines her passion for education, child development, mental health, and community service. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Social Work and is the owner of a human services agency that provides support to individuals with co-occurring intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and mental health needs.

In addition to her service with New Dimensions Charter School, Katie serves on the board of directors for Brighter House in Morganton and is a member of the Burke County Opioid Advisory Committee, where she works alongside community leaders to improve behavioral health outcomes and strengthen resources for individuals and families throughout the region.

Katie’s motivation for serving on the New Dimensions Charter School Board is rooted in her belief that a child’s mental health and behavioral health are critical components of academic success. She is passionate about ensuring that every student is recognized as an individual with unique strengths, challenges, and learning styles. She believes that education is most effective when schools support the whole child and provide an environment where all students can thrive.

Katie is also a strong advocate for educator well-being, recognizing that teachers’ mental health plays a vital role in their ability to be the best educators possible. She believes that supporting teachers ultimately supports students. Additionally, she is committed to promoting school safety and helping create an environment where parents can confidently send their children to school each day, knowing they are safe, supported, and able to focus on learning.

Katie has been married to her husband for 12 years, and together they are raising three children. As both a parent and community leader, she is deeply committed to ensuring that every child has access to meaningful educational opportunities that foster academic success, character development, and lifelong learning.

Outside of her professional and volunteer roles, Katie and her family enjoy spending time outdoors exploring the mountains, rivers, and natural beauty of North Carolina. She believes that some of life’s most valuable lessons happen beyond the walls of a classroom and that education can take place anywhere curiosity, exploration, and growth are encouraged. Katie is a dedicated advocate for education, mental health, and school safety and is honored to serve the students, families, and staff of New Dimensions Charter School.