STAFF AND BOARD
Heather Chatem
(She/Her)
Founder, Executive Director, Lead Teacher
As an administrator, special education teacher, writer, researcher, and speaker with ADHD and dyslexia superpowers herself (with a few corresponding challenges), Heather Chatem is inspired daily by being part of students' journeys as they find their individual pathways to success. She has a B.A. in Psychology, M.A. in Special Education & Rehabilitation with a Specialty in Learning Disabilities, Autism Authorization Training, Special Education Teaching Credential PreK-12, and her Administration License. She has worked in general education, inclusive, resource room, and all-day special education school settings. In addition to her roles at the Samara Learning Center, she is also a co-facilitator for two information and support groups (Central Oregon Attention Deficit Disorder - COADD and Decoding Dyslexia Central Oregon). She also continues her work with Bend Roots Revival, which raises money for children’s music and art programs. Heather feels lucky to be part of the amazingly collaborative and supportive community of Central Oregon.
Sarah Compton
(She, Her)
Lead Teacher, Special Education Tutor, Executive Assistant
Sarah aims to enrich the lives of both neurotypical and neurodivergent youth. She holds a B.A in Biology with a minor in Psychology. Her M.S. is in Education. Sarah has ample experience working in public and charter schools as well as private tutoring. These make her ideal for the positions of Lead Teacher and Special Education Tutor at Samara Learning Center. Sarah's previous roles include science classroom teacher, Substitute Teacher for HDESD, Executive Functioning Coach, Orton Gillingham Tutor, and Exceptional Children's Department Assistant.
Tony Taylor
(He/Him)
PE Instructor, Tutor, Enrichment Program Lead
Tony is experienced in teaching Physical Education and tutoring children of all ages. He has a B.S at Humboldt State University in Kinesiology, and is currently pursuing a degree in Nursing. While living in Bend, he has taught a PE class at the Bend Athletic Club and worked with Soccer Shots, which uses soccer as a tool to teach life values and skills. At Samara Learning, Tony is expanding his knowledge of helping children grow and develop life skills that will help them achieve their goals and dreams.