Olson Elementary: A Fresh New Look for a School Rooted in Legacy

When students returned to Olson Elementary this fall, they were welcomed by a campus that felt both brand new and unmistakably familiar. The walls shimmered in shades of sea green and coastal blue. The ceilings flowed in wave like patterns. Wooden accents added a natural warmth, and throughout the building, sea otter motifs reminded everyone of the school mascot and the playful spirit it inspires. But beyond the aesthetic transformation, this renovation marked a renewed commitment to the school’s mission, developing empowered learners who are exemplary in character and future ready.

A Vision Brought to Life

The renovation, completed in time for the 2025 to 2026 school year, is part of Allen ISD’s broader effort to modernize its campuses through voter approved bond funding from the 2024 Bond election.

Construction work was carefully timed:

Geothermal well installations began in February
Full scale demolition and redesign took place over the summer
Completion was achieved by early August

Inspired by the Sea Otter

The design team drew early inspiration from the school’s mascot, the sea otter, and the Pacific Northwest shoreline environment. This vision came to life through thoughtful details:

River rock tile at restroom entrances
Driftwood toned wall accents
Curved ceiling features that mimic ocean waves
School colors, green and blue, woven throughout the interior

One stairwell is accented in green tones, while the other is finished in blue, a subtle yet effective element that reinforces school identity.

Modern Spaces for Future Ready Learners

Students now enjoy flexible, technology forward learning environments, including:

An updated immersion lab
A reimagined library with reading nooks and learning stairs
A redesigned cafeteria with wood trimmed accents around the stage
Collaboration spaces throughout the building
And much more

From the new vestibule with its metal sea otter emblem to the wave inspired art corridor and upgraded media spaces, the building now reflects the energy and creativity that lives inside it. Infrastructure upgrades, such as geothermal systems and LED lighting, also enhance sustainability and reduce operating costs.

Aligned with Olson’s Mission and Beliefs

All of these enhancements support the school’s mission, to develop empowered learners who are exemplary in character and future ready. They also reflect Olson Elementary’s guiding beliefs:

A safe, student focused environment for all
High expectations and respect for self and others
Relevant, engaging, and differentiated learning experiences
A positive climate that empowers students, parents, and staff
Strong community involvement and open communication

The new environment makes these ideals tangible, offering spaces that invite curiosity, creativity, and connection.

A Legacy of Leadership

Olson Elementary opened in 2009 and was named in honor of longtime Allen educators and community members David E. Olson and Lynda F. Olson. David came to Allen ISD in 1980 as principal of Boyd Elementary and later became Director of Curriculum and Instruction. Lynda joined Allen ISD in 1983 as a counselor and later served at Allen High School. Both began their careers in Richardson ISD in 1965 and retired from Allen ISD in 1995.

Their story spans decades and continents. The Olsons met in high school in Lamesa, Texas, and later married after college. David’s military service brought them to Augsburg, Germany, where he served in the U.S. Army, and Lynda taught for the Department of Defense school system. When they returned to Texas, they pursued careers in education, always emphasizing community, character, and connection.

When they arrived in Allen, it was much smaller, but the couple quickly fell in love with the town, attending Allen football games and watching the community spirit in action.

“We never dreamed we would have a school named after us,” David said. “It has truly been an amazing honor and privilege.”

“We are so proud of Olson Elementary,” Lynda added. “It has amazing teachers, great staff, and wonderful students. I would feel reassured and blessed to send a child to this school.”

Looking Ahead

Today, the freshly renovated Olson Elementary continues to embody the values the Olsons helped shape. It is a place where students feel safe, supported, and inspired. A place where community involvement and strong communication are not just encouraged but expected. A place that looks boldly toward the future while honoring the past.

With its upgraded spaces and renewed energy, Olson Elementary is, as always, making a splash.

Olson Elementary: A Fresh New Look for a School Rooted in Legacy