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New Story Schools Circleville continues to be a place where students receive individualized support in a nurturing, student-centered environment. Guiding that work is Principal Olivia Hollis, whose collaborative approach, deep commitment to special education, and belief in every student’s potential help shape a school community where students, staff, and families feel supported and valued. 

What brings you to New Story Schools? 

I was first introduced to New Story Schools through my previous role at a speech therapy clinic. When I realized it was time for a change, the speech therapist position at the Columbus location immediately stood out to me. From the moment I interviewed, I felt a strong sense of belonging and knew this was a place where I could truly grow. 

What impressed me most was New Story’s genuine focus on the whole child, meeting each student where they are and honoring the unique way they learn. The collaborative, team-centered environment made it clear that this is a community deeply committed to supporting students and one another, and I’m grateful to be part of it. 

How would you describe your leadership style? 

My leadership style is rooted in collaboration and trust. I believe the best outcomes happen when everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute their strengths. I see leadership as working alongside my team, not above them. 

I strive to lead by example, showing up with integrity, consistency, and a willingness to do the work myself. When people feel supported and respected, they’re able to do their best work, and that’s the environment I aim to create every day. 

What do you like most about working in the special education field? 

What I love most about working in special education is witnessing meaningful growth in our students. Not just typical milestones, but progress that truly matters to them and their lives. I value celebrating the small wins, because those moments often represent huge accomplishments. 

I also enjoy the creativity the field calls for. Every student is different, so the work requires us to think flexibly, adapt, and keep searching for what works best for each individual learner. I love being part of a collaborative team that works together to support and advocate for our students. 

What makes you excited about working at New Story Schools? 

I love seeing the growth in both our students and the organization as a whole. In just the three years I’ve been here, I’ve seen New Story open new locations and expand services across Ohio, bringing critical support to families who previously didn’t have access. 

Being part of an organization that continues to grow while staying focused on students and families is something to be proud of. That mission-centered growth is one of the things that makes New Story such a meaningful place to work. 

Where do you see Circleville a year from now? 

In a year, I see Circleville continuing to bloom and grow while reaching more students and expanding our ability to provide meaningful support to families who need it. I envision our current students making genuine progress and achieving goals that matter to them and their families. 

I also see our team continuing to grow in confidence, knowledge, and strength, building on the foundation we’ve created together and supporting one another as we move forward. To me, success means strong student outcomes, a positive and inclusive school environment, and a team that feels equipped and encouraged in the work they do each day. 

How would you describe New Story Schools Circleville? 

The Circleville campus is a welcoming, resilient, and loving place to learn. We proudly embrace our identity as the Otters (our school mascot) by working together, looking out for one another, and staying flexible when the current gets a little rough. Just like otters, we believe in teamwork, problem-solving, and supporting every member of our raft community. 

Our focus is always on doing what’s best for our students, helping them grow, build confidence, and develop the skills they need to thrive both in school and in their community. At Circleville, students are supported, celebrated, and encouraged every step of the way, and our team shows up each day with heart, dedication, and purpose. We show up every day ready to give it our otter best! 

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