Amanda Osmoe has spent her life connected to the Mount Olive community, first as a student and now as a dedicated educator. A 1997 graduate of Mount Olive High School, Mrs. Osmoe returned to her roots in 2013 after gaining over a decade of experience as a teacher at Chatham Glenwood High School. Today, she wears many hats in the district, serving as a PE teacher, health teacher, driver’s education instructor, athletic director, volleyball coach, and sponsor for the sophomore class of 2027.

Reflecting on her journey, Mrs. Osmoe shares that her path to teaching became clear during her second year of college at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where she pursued a degree in kinesiology. Initially considering nursing, Mrs. Osmoe pivoted to education, drawn by her love of sports and a desire to stay active and engaged in different environments. “I’m not someone who likes to stay in one room all day,” she says. “I like the variety and the busy schedule that teaching brings.”

Mrs. Osmoe’s career began in 2003, and she quickly found her stride in physical education. Over the years, she added endorsements in health and driver’s education and earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Illinois Springfield in 2008. Though qualified to step into administrative roles, Mrs. Osmoe feels most at home in her current multifaceted position. “I think about it, but right now, I’m happy where I’m at,” she says.

One of Mrs. Osmoe’s most fulfilling roles is serving as Mount Olive’s athletic director. While many may see the position as merely scheduling games, Mrs. Osmoe describes it as much more: “It’s about building relationships—with coaches, officials, workers, and even other athletic directors. Without those connections, we wouldn’t have a team, a game, or a successful program.” Her dedication to fostering these relationships ensures that Mount Olive’s athletic programs run smoothly and thrive despite the challenges that can arise.

As a physical education teacher, Mrs. Osmoe’s philosophy centers on making fitness accessible and enjoyable for all students. She recognizes the barriers many face in adopting active lifestyles and works to expose students to a variety of exercises, hoping they’ll find something they love—or at least tolerate enough to incorporate into their lives. “You don’t have to play a sport or like the weight room to stay healthy,” she explains. “My goal is to help students discover activities that fit their preferences and schedules.”

Mrs. Osmoe’s passion for health and fitness extends beyond the gym. During her time at Chatham Glenwood, she taught strength training courses, further fueling her dedication to helping students understand the importance of physical well-being. This passion has remained a central theme throughout her career, and it’s one she continues to emphasize at Mount Olive.

For Mrs. Osmoe, Mount Olive offers a unique sense of community that contrasts sharply with her experiences at larger schools. At Chatham, with its 1,500 students, she often didn’t know students unless they were in her class. “Here, we’re so small that even if you don’t have a kid in your class, you know them—and you probably know a little bit about their background, too,” she says. This closeness allows for deeper relationships and a stronger sense of connection with students and their families.

Mrs. Osmoe also values the camaraderie among her colleagues, describing the Mount Olive High School staff as adaptable, supportive, and filled with good humor. “I love their sense of humor and the way they approach teaching,” she says. “Even on bad days, I can talk to them and walk away smiling. We have a great high school staff here.”

As both an educator and a parent of two daughters attending Mount Olive Schools, Mrs. Osmoe has a unique perspective on the district’s strengths and challenges. She appreciates the community’s support and recognizes the value of organizations like Focus Five and the Academic Foundation, which help provide resources and opportunities for students.

Reflecting on the importance of her work, Mrs. Osmoe sees physical education as a critical component of a well-rounded education. “Unfortunately, obesity rates and type 2 diabetes are rising among kids, and for some, PE might be the only physical activity they get,” she explains. “It’s about more than just exercise—it’s about setting them up for healthier lives.”

Amanda Osmoe’s dedication to Mount Olive Schools is evident in every role she takes on. Whether she’s coaching volleyball, teaching life skills in driver’s education, or scheduling athletic events, Mrs. Osmoe’s impact is felt throughout the district. Her story is a testament to the power of educators who are deeply invested in their communities and committed to helping students grow in every aspect of their lives.