About Kathleen O’Connor 

Kathleen O’Connor is a specialist teacher of students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing with nearly twenty years of diverse teaching experience supporting students with a variety of needs. She is known for her warmth, dedication, and the belief that every learner deserves a classroom where they feel welcomed and included.

Drawing on her background in special education, Kathleen specializes in creating personalized education plans that support the use of hearing assistive technologies, the development of language and literacy skills, and the promotion of self-advocacy and student agency. She is passionate about student engagement and confidence-building, always centering empathy in her work.

She holds a Master of Applied Disabilities Studies from Brock University and a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University. Kathleen is certified in Deaf and Hard of Hearing education, special education, and is pursuing her Principal’s qualifications. She currently serves as a specialist itinerant teacher with the York Region District School Board, mentoring educators and leading community events to promote equity and inclusion.

Beyond her professional role, Kathleen enjoys volunteering, organizing family-focused events, and celebrating the success of her students. Her commitment is clear: championing accessible, empowering education so every child and family has the opportunity to thrive.