School Social Work Team

Holly Merkle is dually licensed as a Licensed Independent Social Worker and an Ohio School Social Worker. She is a graduate of the College of Wooster with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and earned a Master’s Degree from Case Western Reserve University in Social Science Administration (Social Work).  Holly has over 15 years experience working with children and families with a specialization in helping youth dealing with traumatic events. Holly oversees the School Social Work Department and enjoys playing with her Labrador Retriever Penelope when not at work.

To contact Holly, call 330-926-3800 ext. 502103 or email at cf_merkleh@cftigers.org. 

Sierra Oden is a Licensed Independent Social Worker. She is a graduate of Lee University, where she completed a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Case Western Reserve University, earning a Master's Degree in Social Service Administration specializing in Children, Youth and Families. Sierra has worked in social services for over 10 years, with a strong focus on supporting youth and families. On weekends, you can find her outdoors hiking, running, volunteering, and spending time with her family.

To contact Sierra, call 330-926-3800 ext. 502009 or email at cf_odens@cftigers.org. 

Becky Matheny, MSW, LISW

School Social Worker

Roberts Middle, DeWitt, Price, & Preston Elementary Schools

Becky is a Licensed Independent Social Worker. She attended The University of Akron where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Organizational Communication and a Master’s degree in Social Work.  Becky has more than 12 years experience working with children and adults with developmental disabilities and most recently worked for a state psychiatric hospital. She is excited for the opportunity to return to working with children. In her free time, Becky enjoys spending time with her family and cheering on her kids at band competitions and volleyball games. 

To contact Becky, call 330-926-3800 ext. 502017 or email at cf_mathenyr@cftigers.org. 

Esther Harsh is a Licensed Social Worker and serves the district as one of the elementary school social workers. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Intervention Specialist from Malone University and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Akron. Her life and professional experiences are broad including service in Ukrainian orphanages, refugee resettlement, treatment foster care, and children services. Esther is an avid traveler and enjoys hiking, kayaking, and amusement parks.

To contact Esther, call 330-926-3800 ext. 502012 or email at cf_harshe@cftigers.org.