COOPERSTOWN – The Cooperstown Central School District Board of Education has appointed Thomas Olsen, of Troy, New York, as the District’s new Director of Special Education, effective Sept. 1, 2026.
Olsen is a certified School District Leader who has worked in public education since 2017. He also holds certifications as a School Building Leader and school psychologist.
Olsen began his career as a school psychologist and Committee on Special Education (CSE) chairperson at Jefferson Central School District before serving as a 7-12 school psychologist and CSE chairperson at Altmar-Parish-Williamstown Central School District. Most recently, he served as Director of Pupil Personnel Services at Berlin Central School District, a position he held for three years.
Olsen has been active in the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) and the New York Association of School Psychologists (NYSAP), including presenting on various topics at state and national conferences. He remains connected with both organizations.
“The opportunity to work in Cooperstown, a district well-known for its robust programming, exceptional achievement, community focus and strong, committed educators, provides an opportunity to build upon the successes of the District and expand opportunities for all students,” Olsen said.
Olsen added that he has been impressed by the community’s warm welcome since joining the District.
“The community has been so welcoming to me in such a short time, as everyone helps me settle in and offers their assistance as I work to relocate to the area,” he said. “I cannot wait to see all the great things we can do for students and the community through our work together.”
With extensive experience in special education and a background working in rural school districts across New York, Olsen is excited to join the Cooperstown school community and build upon the District’s successes while expanding opportunities for all students.
