Dr. Kayla Hostetler is a writer, educator, and curriculum specialist whose work is rooted in culturally responsive pedagogy, youth empowerment, and literacy as a tool for justice. With over 15 years of experience in secondary and post-secondary education, she currently teaches English and education courses at Aiken High School, Aiken Technical College, and Augusta University. She is also a frequent presenter at national and regional conferences, a mentor for emerging educators, and a teaching fellow at the Bread Loaf School of English. Dr. Hostetler holds a Ph.D. in Language and Literacy from the University of South Carolina. She also holds an M.A. in English from Middlebury College’s Bread Loaf School of English. An advocate for youth voice and social justice, Dr. Hostetler’s publications include work in English Leadership Quarterly, The Bread Loaf Teacher Network Journal, and We Be Loving Black Children, winner of the 2022 Society of Professors of Education Outstanding Book Award. She serves on multiple educational committees, including SCCTE and Better World Studios, and has received honors such as the Golden Apple Award for Teaching Excellence (2024), SCASCD Emerging Leader (2023–2024), and National Council of Teachers of English High School Teacher of Excellence (2020). Outside of the classroom, Dr. Hostetler is a seasoned global traveler and passionate youth mentor, leading international student trips and directing leadership and writing camps. Her teaching, writing, and research center storytelling as a powerful means of connection, healing, and change.