Heather Olvey ’94, an English teacher at Mount St. Mary Academy, has been named a Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction by The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) for her outstanding dedication and commitment to excellence in the field of education.
Each year student members of NSHSS are invited to nominate the educator who has made the most significant contribution to their academic career – whose passion and devotion has inspired them to grow and develop as scholars, leaders and citizens – for the honor. Caroline Riley ’25 nominated Mrs. Olvey for this year’s Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction award.
“Mrs. Olvey is the best teacher I have ever had,” Caroline said in her nomination. “She is so knowledgeable in what she teaches and always makes sure her students understand the material. I have never been afraid to raise my hand in her room and speak my mind. She has helped me through so much not only as a student but as a person as well. I feel so lucky to have been taught by Mrs. Olvey and truly believe I would not be the person I am today if it weren’t for her.”
Mrs. Olvey is in her fourth year of teaching at MSM, having previously taught at Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic School from 2016-2021 and Joe T. Robinson High School from 2015-2016. She teaches senior English courses, including AP Literature and Composition, and serves as the senior class sponsor and advisor of the Poetry Club, which she helped form two years ago. In 2023 she was one of only five teachers in Little Rock selected to receive the prestigious Stephens Award by The City Education Trust for her outstanding and inspirational teaching.
“Dedicated educators who exhibit a commitment to excellence deserve our highest praise and appreciation,” said NSHSS President James W. Lewis. “Through our Educators of Distinction program and the grants we provide to support professional development and enrich classroom instruction, we hope to acknowledge and encourage the vital work of the teachers, counselors and administrators who are shaping the intellect and character of our young scholars.”
