Staff Profile
Child Development Specialist Rachel O’Connor

About Rachel
Rachel grew up in the mountains of North Idaho where she learned the value of place-based learning and authentic connections in education.
After studying social work and violin performance she began pursuing a Masters in Teaching. In the midst of teaching K-8th grade special education in Chicago, Rachel happened upon the world of Outdoor Education through a summer leading youth on wilderness trips with Outward Bound California. This summer turned into 9 years of working in experiential and alternative education which shaped her passion for supporting kids and teens as well as their families through the challenging parts of learning both within and outside of the classroom.
Since moving to Central Oregon in 2019 Rachel has remained closely involved in education and youth and teen behavioral health and is pursuing a Master of Social Work with an emphasis in School Social Work at Portland State University. Outside of work you might find her playing with the Central Oregon Symphony, tromping through the woods, or appreciating a community gathering.