When it comes to expanding educational opportunities across South Carolina, few have had as direct an impact as Ms. Kristin Olcott. As Director of Authorization for the Charter Institute at Erskine, she has been instrumental in opening charter schools statewide, creating hundreds of jobs, and bringing quality education to thousands of children. In recognition of her work, Ms. Olcott has been named on the Columbia Business Monthly’s 2025 Best and Brightest list.
The Institute’s mission to transform the next generation is made possible through the work of its Authorization Department. In the three years that Ms. Olcott has been with the Institute, her leadership and dedication have established a strong foundation for continued growth and lasting impact.
Transforming Authorization Through Relationships
Her approach extends far beyond the paperwork. Ms. Olcott closely collaborates with the Office of School Facilities and other state agencies to ensure schools meet facility and operational standards. Her ability to foster trust has been credited with encouraging new charter applicants to persist through an otherwise daunting process, directly impacting the prevalence of school choice options in communities across South Carolina.
Ms. Olcott also manages charter contract amendments and supports schools in navigating board-level approvals. Her credibility with both schools and decision-makers has made her a critical link in ensuring charter schools can adapt and thrive to best serve their communities. In fact, her work has been cited as a model that other authorizers in the state have sought to replicate in their own Authorization departments.
Impacting Underserved Communities
A former elementary school teacher, Ms. Olcott has built her career around improving educational outcomes for students in a variety of roles. Her current work has been especially significant in South Carolina’s I-95 “Corridor of Shame,” where she supports the development of high-quality charter schools in historically underserved regions.
Her efforts help provide families in these areas with access to educational opportunities that might not otherwise exist, contributing to long-term community revitalization and improved student outcomes. Under Ms. Olcott’s authorization, in just one year the Institute has opened two brick-and-mortar schools in the Corridor, which are currently serving almost 700 students.
Exemplifying Leadership and Service
Ms. Olcott is often described as approachable, dependable, and supportive. In addition to her official job responsibilities, she is known for her willingness to lend a hand and help with Institute initiatives and events. She consistently shows the meaning of servant leadership and sets the standard for culture within the Institute.
Her leadership style is characterized by humility and collaboration, earning her widespread respect among peers, school leaders, and partners across the state.
Ms. Kristin Olcott’s recognition as one of the Columbia Business Monthly’s Best and Brightest reflects both her professional excellence and her lasting impact on public education in South Carolina. We are grateful to have her as part of our team!
