Name: Olivia Grant

Degree: ‘00 B.S.Ed. Elementary Education

Current Employer: Clark County School District / Peterson Elementary School

Are there any valuable lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?

One of the biggest things I’ve learned in my 26 years of teaching is that everyone deserves a reset. Every child deserves a clean slate and the opportunity to start fresh each day. Sometimes we are the only adults these students consistently connect with. Students need to see teachers who understand them and believe in them.

What advice would you give current students hoping to pursue a career in education?

One piece of advice I always give is to get as much hands-on experience as possible. If your schedule allows, I strongly recommend getting a substitute teaching license and working in classrooms while you’re still in school. That exposure will make such a difference when you begin your career.

What are some hobbies you enjoy that people may not know about you?

Something people don’t know about me is that I was an amateur boxer early in my career. I also ran track and field for many years and participated in races like 5Ks, 10Ks, and Spartan races. I love kickboxing, yoga, Pilates, and really any type of fitness class. I also love to dance.

Are you a COE alum? Let us know what you’ve got going on by submitting a Class Note or getting involved!