What is Cookson Hills?
Since 1957, Cookson Hills has provided home, school, and therapy for kids who are at-risk. We are a children’s home in Northeast Oklahoma, serving kids ages 5-17 who want to write a better story for their lives and have experienced challenges with family life, homelessness, poor peer relationships, abuse, or neglect. Compelled by the love of Christ, our team works together to fulfill our vision – to raise up healthy individuals who are empowered to positively impact future generations.
It’s not fool-proof. It’s difficult. And, it’s worth it.

How We Do Home

How We Do School

How We Do Therapy
“The Lord is near to those who are discouraged;
he saves those who have lost all hope.”
~ Psalm 34:18
The Setting of a Better Story
Pausing to Praise God’s Provision in 2025
By Ron Riley, Executive Director As we close out 2025, I find myself filled with gratitude—and awe—as I reflect on the ways God has moved…
When Seeds Begin to Grow
In my early 20s, I was a day laborer on a construction crew. We did general contracting in private homes. It was hard and arduous…
From the Barn to the Classroom
How Equine Science Is Growing Little Hearts and Big Minds If you had told me a year ago that I’d be in the classroom but…
Where Are They Now? The Inspirational Stories of Jacob & Bailey Spangler
Interview by: Sarah Curry Earlier this year, I sat down with two former students of Cookson Hills, Jacob and Bailey (Asbell) Spangler. They shared their…
Maya’s Better Story
Hi, I am Maya. I am bi-lingual, a classically trained pianist, artist, and child of God. I love my family profoundly. When I came to…
My Better Song
Lexi's story I was born to two drug-addicted parents. By my first birthday, I had been in foster care. It wouldn’t be long before I…
Incredible Combined Concert with OBU
Wednesday, March 6th, the Oklahoma Baptist University Symphonic Winds Ensemble came to our campus and partnered with our band department to host a united concert!…
Using sensory-friendly items for development
Children from hard places often struggle with regulating their emotions and bodies due to deficits in their sensory development. We are all familiar with the…









