Allison taught for 16 years in a Montana rural school, which happened to be the same rural school she attended as a child. She taught grades Kindergarten - 6th, as well as Title I, Gifted, and Art education. She has 11 years of experience as a principal and curriculum director. She holds degrees in Art, Teaching and Educational Leadership along with a Superintendent Licensure.
Allison is heavily involved with rural education and has been an active member of the National Rural Education Association since 2006, after winning the Montana Rural Teacher of the year. She has sat on the Executive Board since 2010 and was the President of the association twice (2016 & 2022).