INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Olivia Vix, Castleview Elementary School

Olivia Vix is a school assistant at Castleview Elementary School. She helps prepare and administer all district and statewide tests, maintains all students’ cumulative records, assists the registrar with data management, helps to cover the front office duties, assists the nurse with students in the clinic, supervises the cafeteria during all lunches and provides breaks to teachers as needed. 

“She is a positive influence on every single student at Castleview Elementary and works with many of our parent volunteers who come in each day to assist us with lunches,” Principal Jonathan Rasmussen said. “When it is not lunch time, she is all over campus doing a million tasks to help the teachers and students. It is hard to imagine Castleview without her.”

What brought you to your school?
I returned to the workforce after taking 12 years off to raise my two children.

What do you love most about your school?
I love that the teachers and staff make a great team and create a positive learning experience for all the students.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Watching the students grow every year and seeing all the ways they have succeeded.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?
I would have liked to have been a veterinarian.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?
I would pick my dad any day over a famous person. My dad was not just my father; he was my best friend and biggest supporter. If I had to pick a famous person, it would be Jeff Dunham. He always makes me laugh.

Who influences you?
My father inspires me daily. He instilled in me a very strong work ethic at a very young age.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?
My eighth-grade Honors History teacher. He made learning fun and interesting.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?
“Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White. It’s about empathy and compassion.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy trying new recipes and taking my two dogs on long walks.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
I would love to be able to fly. I wouldn’t have to pay for gas or sit in traffic ever again.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?
Brooks and Dunn, George Straight, and Reba. I love country music.

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?
Rectangle pizza from the school cafeteria.

What is your favorite holiday and why?
Thanksgiving. I love getting together with family and sharing good food.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?
Terri Tarnecki. We’ve been friends since we were 2 years old. We still keep in touch through Facebook.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?
I was in band. Played the clarinet for eight years. Placed superior at solo and ensemble competitions.