Al Olson

(by Louis-Jérôme)

Just another history teacher or basketball coach to most, but to us boys in Duxbury House Mr. Olson is the most valiant member of our brotherhood — the one who keeps us together when times are rough, like during the Winter Term.

Hailing from Burns Lake, BC, teaching is in his blood, both his mother and brother were teachers. Mr. Olson always knew that he wanted to teach and with his family’s encouragement, he succeeded. Inspired by his love of helping young people develop into adults, he arrived at Shawnigan six years ago and quickly adjusted from life as a part-time, public secondary school teacher to Assistant House Director of this School’s greatest House.

Having taught everything from Kindergarten to AP classes for the last 25-plus years, Shawnigan represented an interesting change for Mr. Olson and his wife (Mrs. Holly Olson). The Olson’s decided to make the move from Asst. House Director to House Director because they wanted the best for Duxbury and wished to make a difference in our lives. They took it on, and we are all grateful. For him the most rewarding part of his job is that even on a terrible day upon entering Duxbury his spirits are immediately lifted.

Whether he’s working with a member of the House staff or laughing with one of us, just being a part of us maturing is what for him is the true prize. Some of you may already know that Mr. Olson is leaving his position as Duxbury House Director next year; although this greatly saddens every single one of us, we know that this Queen’s Scout is truly 100% Duxbury.

With more time on his hands he intends to focus on his professional development as an AP teacher, be a more devoted coach, and most importantly, improve his golf swing. Mr. Olson, we will miss you, but remember Duxbury’s heart will always be open to you.