Karla Kirkling

Karla Kirkling is a progressive leader with close to 20 years of experience within the public sector education industry. She holds a Master of Science in Public Service Management from DePaul University and has extensive experience working in a fast-paced, unionized environment with ongoing engagement and partnership with internal and external stakeholders. Karla worked her way up from an entry-level position to earn her current seat as the Executive Director of Healthcare and Benefits at Chicago Public Schools, the third largest school district in the country. She is passionate about promoting holistic health and wellness as well as increasing access, equity, and education within the healthcare ecosystem to help improve the quality of life for all CPS employees. Her most recent accomplishment was recognized by national industry leaders for her commitment, leadership, and innovation to drive successful outcomes for participants through the redesign of the CPS 403b and 457 Tax-Deferred supplemental retirement plan platform and administration. In her spare time, Karla enjoys traveling, spending time with loved ones, dancing, and engaging in self-care activities such as yoga and meditation.