My name is Katie Olson and have been with the Wildcats since the Fall of 2022. I was raised in Eastern South Dakota and graduated from the University of South Dakota in 2011. I received my Social Work Degree with a minor in Alcohol and Drug Studies. I then became employed at an adolescent inpatient group care facility. I worked with individuals who had been been involved with the juvenile court system or had been placed for other services. Not long after that, I took a position as a correctional officer at the SD State Penitentiary. During my nearly ten years at SDSP, I promoted to Unit Coordinator and then Unit Case Manager.

As the School Liaison Officer, I act as a bridge between the school district, students, families and certain community organizations. I assist with providing support for at risk-students, by connecting them with necessary resources and advocating for their success, within the school district. I also work with local law enforcement and social services agencies to assist students facing challenges such as truancy, behavioral issues, substance use concerns/incidents and family adversity. In addition, I partner with Juvenile Court Officers to track and provide support to youth in the school district, who are involved with Iowa Juvenile Court Services.