Friday, June 13, 2025

Despite resignations by Olsons, Amy Olson seeks re-election to K-M Board

In a bizarre set of circumstances, the current school board at Kasson-Mantorville is facing turmoil and a vacancy as two members of the same family with different roles within the district have resigned. However, one vows to come back after seeking re-election in next month’s election.

Kasson-Mantorville School Board member Amy Olson resigned from the board last week, eight days after her husband, Joel, resigned his position as a science teacher at the school. Olson also said she is not withdrawing from the upcoming school board election.

Longtime Kasson-Mantorville middle school teacher Joel Olson resigned from his position on Oct. 8, which was officially accepted by the School Board on Oct. 21.

Then, citing personal reasons, his wife Amy Olson abruptly resigned from the School Board on Oct. 16, eight days after he resigned from his position.

“I am writing today with a heavy heart and a humble mind. Recent events in my family have prompted me to reflect deeply on my priorities and responsibilities,” Amy Olson wrote in a letter. “It is never easy to step back, especially from a role I cherish, but I believe it is necessary at this time. As of 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, I am officially resigning from my position on the Kasson-Mantorville school board.”

Superintendent Ted Ihns in a statement said “Pursuant to Minnesota Statute 13.43 this is private data, and I am not able to comment anymore on this.”

Other efforts by the DCI to confirm reasons behind the resignations, including seeking information and comments from school board members and representatives of the teacher’s union, have been unsuccessful.

In her letter, Olson explained that due “to a recent family crisis, I find it necessary to prioritize my family during this challenging time and step back from my position on the board.”

“This decision was not made lightly, as I have greatly valued the opportunity to serve on the school board and contribute to our community,” Olson said.

“It has become clear that my situation is distracting the board during a critical time when focus is essential. I want nothing but the best for our board as we prepare to welcome a new group in January. It’s important that you can dedicate your efforts to this transition and continue supporting our district in the way it truly deserves.”

Olson, who will be on the November ballot, said she would still be running for School Board.

“Over the next 8-9 weeks, my focus will be on my family as we navigate this difficult situation and seek peace and stability,” Olson said. “I believe that taking this time will ultimately equip me to serve our district more effectively, should the community desire my continued involvement.”

Asked if she thinks her family situation will carry over if re-elected, Olson said, “I want to assure everyone that I am fully committed to my role should the community see fit, and I am not concerned about any recent events impacting my ability to serve. My family is my priority right now, and I need to be there for them,” Olson said.

“However, I am confident that with the new board in place, I will be able to effectively fulfill my duties as a board member and navigate any challenges that may arise should the community see that I am right for the position.”

Asked what distractions are coming from her family crisis Olson wrote, “That is something that I am not able to comment on.”

When asked what the distraction was, Olson declined to comment citing “data privacy.”

Olson said she is grateful “for the support and collaboration I have experienced while working with each of you. I will ensure a smooth transition and am happy to assist in any way I can during this process. To the community, I urge you to continue supporting K-M as you always have, offering your unwavering commitment to our students and staff. What makes K-M unique is your steadfast support; without it, our students would struggle to find a true home here,” Olson said.

Olson added: “To the superintendent, I challenge you to continue being the leader I know you are. Stay present, engaged, and communicate often with the community, staff, and students. To the board, now is not the time to coast—many of you are nearing the end of your terms and play a crucial role in the smooth transition for the new board. Thank you for the hard work you’ve done; please continue to lay the groundwork for the incoming board’s success. Attend meetings, engage with students and staff, and strive for excellence in every way possible. Remember the importance of empathy for our students, staff, administration, and each other. Together, we can ensure that K-M remains a place where everyone thrives.”

 

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