معرفی
Kathleen VanTol serves as Professor of Education and Director of the Master of Special Education program at Dordt University. With over 35 years of experience in education, she specializes in special education, TESOL, and Applied Behavior Analysis (BCBA certification). Her work bridges academic instruction, disability advocacy, and Christian theology.
- Education: B.S. in Biology (Calvin University), M.A. in Special Education (Calvin University), Ph.D. in Special Education with TESOL focus (Western Michigan University)
- Key affiliations: The Thrive Center for ABA (Northwest Iowa), Tesoros De Dios (special needs school in Nicaragua)
Her research focuses on special education program development, TESOL pedagogical strategies, and disability justice in religious contexts. She authored the open-source textbook Foundations of Special Education, addressing IDEA disability categories and instructional strategies, available in English and Spanish.
VanTol’s recent article critiques exclusionary practices in church communities through the lens of Amy Kenny’s book My Body Is Not a Prayer Request, analyzing ableism and advocating for inclusive church spaces that recognize disability as integral to the body of Christ.
- Scientific Awards: Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Board Certified Advocate in Special Education
She provides training/consultation for schools and families internationally, develops special education curricula, and serves on Iowa’s Special Education Guidance System task force. Her work emphasizes interdependence and dismantling systemic barriers for disabled individuals.
