Kayla Hester, Secretary

Kayla brings more than a decade of experience in education and behavioral health. She has taught at the elementary, middle, and high school levels and currently serves as a high school history educator. Well connected within Oklahoma’s education and youth development community, Kayla combines her classroom experience with a passion for student growth and well-being.

Alongside her teaching role, Kayla leads an after-school enrichment program that promotes youth engagement, academic achievement, and scholarship opportunities. She has also collaborated with nonprofit organizations to design and lead volunteer programs that strengthen community involvement.

In addition to her background in education, Kayla has served as a Behavioral Health Case Manager and Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Specialist, providing psychoeducational support in coping, social, and anger management skills. She has also worked with parents to strengthen parenting practices and promote family stability.

Kayla earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government and her Master of Science in Criminology from Oklahoma City University, where she focused on contemporary issues in criminal justice, theory, research, and applied practice.

Kayla brings to CSF:

• Deep experience in child and youth development, classroom management, and educational leadership.

• Expertise in behavioral health, case management, and family support, aligning with CSF’s mission to prevent child cruelty and strengthen protective systems.

• Proven ability to design and lead programs that foster youth engagement, resilience, and community connection.

• A holistic understanding of how education, mental health, and public safety intersect in child welfare systems.

• Strong collaboration and communication skills that support cross-sector partnerships and community-based initiatives.