Karla Brooks-Hartsfield is a 2026-2027 Teach Plus Philadelphia Affinity Group Network Facilitator. She is a program coordinator, and social emotional learning (SEL) specialist at Crossroads at Hunting Park in Philadelphia, leading Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports initiatives and coaching staff on classroom SEL practices. Karla has over 20 years of experience, including roles as a special education assistant, camp director, and certified K–5 classroom teacher. She founded Joy Giving Solutions, created the “BRIDGE” training framework, earned her school a nomination for Philadelphia’s inaugural SEL Innovative Practices Award (2024), serves on the Philadelphia City Council’s Parent and Family Engagement Task Force, and is a Philadelphia Surge Academy alumna. Karla earned a BS in early childhood education and MEd in special education from Eastern University. She holds a certificate in entrepreneurship and innovation from Alvernia University.
