Inspired by the wonderful teachers she had growing up, Janet E. Olson-West set out to make her own mark in academia. She started by earning a Bachelor of Education from Central Missouri State University in 1973, after which she became an elementary school teacher at Lakeland R-3 School. Mrs. Olson-West then took her talents to Kingsville R-1 School, where she served as an elementary school teacher from 1977 to 2005 and as an elementary communication arts teacher from 2005 to 2009. She really enjoyed her career, and loves when former students reach out. Seeing how they have developed and grown is really fulfilling.
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Olson-West held a variety of leadership positions with prominent professional organizations. She was the president of DKGSI from 2009 to 2011, the chair of the research committee of DKGSI from 2004 to 2008, the secretary of the West Central Unit Council of the Missouri NEA from 2002 to 2008, and a member of the education advisory committee at Powell Gardens from 2002 to 2008. Additionally, she is a life member of the Missouri NEA and a member of the International Literacy Association.
In recognition of her efforts, Mrs. Olson-West was honored with the Above and Beyond Award from the Kingsville R-I School District, the You Showed Us Award from the Missouri NEA, and the Excellence in Education Award from DKGSI. Her achievements were highlighted in three editions of Who’s Who in America and two of Who’s Who of American Women.
When Mrs. Olson-West has free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, quilting, camping, and flower and vegetable gardening. She is also active as a chaplain and recording secretary for the Gilead Rupe Chapter of the Missouri State Society Daughters of the American Revolution.
