What makes us different from other centers
At Mama Bear Learning Center, we go beyond traditional childcare by combining exceptional education, individualized attention, and a nurturing environment. As a family- and veteran-owned center, we bring a unique blend of discipline, care, and community values to every classroom. Our certified teachers use well prepared lesson plans to create engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences for children from 6 weeks to 10 years old. With a Level 4 Texas Rising Star rating, we prioritize both academic and emotional growth, ensuring each child feels safe, valued, and inspired to explore their full potential. At Mama Bear, we don’t just care for children — we invest in their future, celebrate their individuality, and build strong partnerships with families to create a true home-away-from-home.
Mr. Chuk Atum (AKA Papa Bear)
Vice President/COO/Owner/Certified Director
Mr. Chuk Atum (Papa Bear) is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse background in military service, law enforcement, counterterrorism, leadership, business, and real estate investing. A proud U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, Mr. Atum went on to serve as a Gangs and Narcotics Detective, Certified Juvenile Detective, and Counterterrorism Specialist, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to protecting communities and mentoring youth.
He holds an MBA in General Business, a BA in Human Resource Management, and an AA in Computer Science, and is also a Certified Child Care Director. With exceptional leadership experience, he has successfully led teams ranging from small units to large groups of over 300 personnel, earning a reputation for his integrity, discipline, and strategic vision.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Mr. Atum is a dedicated business owner, real estate investor, and published author. He has a deep respect and admiration for the child care industry, recognizing its importance in shaping the next generation.
A passionate lifelong learner and adventurer, Mr. Atum enjoys spending time with family and friends, working with children, and engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and traveling. His hobbies also include shooting, art, music, cooking, martial arts, web development, meditation, and playing the Native American flute. He is conversational in Japanese and has traveled to over 35 countries, including several in active conflict zones.
During his six years in the combat zone — three in Iraq and three in Afghanistan—Mr. Atum contributed to counterterrorism efforts, peace restoration and training of international police and military forces to include high threat operations. His global experiences have shaped his compassion for others and his drive to build meaningful relationships.
Mr. Atum is also the author of the children’s book “Mr. Bonz and The School Bully”, available on Amazon in both Kindle and paperback formats, inspiring young readers with messages of kindness, courage, and empathy.
Mrs. Josie Atum (Aka mama bear)
President/CEO/Owner/Certified Director
Mrs. Josie (Mama Bear) is a dedicated Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Staff Sergeant in the Texas Army National Guard (TXARNG), where she proudly serves her country with honor and commitment. In addition to her military service, she is pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and is a Certified Child Care Director, blending strong leadership with a deep passion for early childhood education.
With many years of experience in the child care industry, Mrs. Josie brings exceptional knowledge, organization, resource management, and leadership skills to her work. Her natural nurturing spirit, patience, and genuine love for children make her a positive influence in every child’s learning journey.
Affectionately known as “Mama Bear,” she finds joy in mentoring her Soldiers, raising her children, supporting her husband, and teaching and nurturing the little bears at Mama Bear Learning Center. Her compassion, strength, and dedication shine through in all she does — both in service and in care.
Ms. Stephanie O.
Administrative Assistant/Toddler Teacher
My name is Ms. Stephanie, and I bring 18 years of experience in childcare, combining both personal and professional expertise. For 10 years, I worked with a Child Sitting Service, followed by 8 years at a daycare in Castroville, caring for children of all ages and backgrounds. My passion for nurturing young minds comes from a lifelong love of children and the privilege of guiding them through their early developmental years.
My husband and I are blessed with a large loving family of five children, including four wonderful stepchildren and my biological daughter, who was born prematurely at 28 weeks weighing only 2 lbs. 3 oz. She is truly my miracle child and is now 25 years old and thriving, inspiring me every day in my work with children.
Over the years, I have had the joy of watching little ones grow into active, bright young people, and one of my greatest rewards is reconnecting with former children I cared for, now grown into adults, and seeing the positive impact I’ve had on their lives. I truly believe that God has blessed me with the gift of nurturing children, and I consider it an honor to serve families in this meaningful way.
Mrs. Araceli C.
Certified Infant Teacher
Hello!
My name is Ms. Araceli. I am happily married, a proud mother of three children, and a devoted pet parent to a miniature poodle named Biscuit. I bring over 10 years of experience in childcare, where I focus on learning through play, fostering emotional growth, and building strong partnerships with both parents and coworkers. I am a big kid at heart and genuinely enjoy creating a fun, nurturing environment for children.
In my spare time, I love spending quality time with my family, watching drama and suspense shows, and pampering myself by getting my nails done. Some of the things that bring me joy include family, food, music, sleep, nails, and coffee. I look forward to working with your children and making their learning experiences both fun and meaningful.
Ms. BIanca C.
Certified Toddler/Pre-School Teacher
Hello There!
I am Ms. Bianca. I graduated from W.B. Ray High School in Corpus Christi and bring a wide range of experience, including work as a security officer and hairstylist. Creative and hands-on, I enjoy arts, crafts, and DIY projects, which I incorporate into engaging activities for children. At home, I love cooking and spending time with my two cats and my dogs, Cinnamon and Butters. Having lived in many places, I’m excited to grow roots in San Antonio and create a positive, nurturing environment for children to learn and thrive.
Ms. Leslie R.
certified Infant/Toddler Teacher
Hi There!
I am Ms. Leslie. I graduated from East central high school in 2024. My freshman and sophomore year of high school I took classes to help guide me for my junior year and senior year going off campus to work with children. I started my early childhood hands on career my junior year of high school shadowing in a pre k classroom. I continued this path my senior year as well as after high school.
Helping and engaging children to grow is my goal as a teacher. Every new accomplishment a child makes I like to make them feel encouraged to do it again. What children learn and achieve today will shape who they grow up to be.
Ms. Olivia W.
Certified Toddler/Pre-School Teacher
Hello,
I am Ms. Olivia. A high honor, high school and college graduate with much ambition to help shape and better prepare future generations!
Growing up as a military brat, adjusting to new opportunities comes naturally. I am delighted to have the opportunity to teach at Mama Bear Learning Center, as my ultimate goal is to create a positive space, leave great impressions, and produce positive impacts on these little minds.
Ms. Esperanza M.
Certified Toddler/Preschool Teacher
Hi!
My Name is Ms. Esperanza. I’m a Mother of three beautiful girls. I graduated from Frank M Tejeda Academy. I’m super excited to join The Mama Bear Learning Center Team and getting to know all the new friends assigned to my classroom.
In my free time I’m at home with my babies, spending time with my family making memories.
My Favorite Things and Hobby’s:
* Favorite Color: Blue
* Favorite Food: Seafood
* Favorite Hobby: Reading
* I love to read
* Favorite Animal:
* Butterflies
*Favorite Drink: Big Red
Ms. Sydney G.
Certified Infant Teacher
Hello!
My name is Ms. Sydney and I am excited to be part of the bear family. I graduated from East Central High School in 2017. I had originally pursued nursing for my secondary studies but realized that it wasn’t a right fit for me and instead continued my learning in music to become a music teacher, hoping to share the magic that it brings. At Palo Alto College I had the honor of performing in the marching mariachi band as a clarinetist and a saxophonist in their jazz band. I was able to gain teaching experience by subbing and working alongside the middle/high school director at Somerset (formerly Brooks) Collegiate Academy in 2022-2023 by assisting with the woodwind section as well as working with the 1st and 4th graders in the school’s aftercare.
I had to take a pause in this journey due to becoming a mother but still am able to share the joy that it brings from raising my daughter and accepting the opportunity that Mama Bear Learning Center had graciously offered. I look forward to helping nurture these young saplings and boost their self confidence through the wonders of the arts.
Ms. Mariah G.
Certified Toddler/Preschool Teacher
Hello!
My name is Ms. Mariah, and I’m excited to be part of the classroom community. I graduated from Sam Houston High School in 2016 and earned my bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University–San Antonio in May 2025. I am currently working toward my master’s degree in Instructional Design and Technology while also completing my teacher certification.
I grew up with an older brother and a younger sister, which helped me learn the importance of teamwork, patience, and communication—skills that are also valuable in the classroom.
Outside of school, I enjoy a variety of creative hobbies. I create resin art and am currently learning 3D printing, which allows me to explore new ways of designing and making things. I also enjoy anime and horror movies, and I love writing short stories in my free time. One of my long-term goals is to write and publish books in the future.
I’m also hoping to get a pet hamster soon, which I’m very excited about!
I look forward to sharing my enthusiasm for learning, creativity, and technology with my students
Ms. Nina Z.
Head Nutritionist
Hello There,
My name is Ms. Nina and I bring along a diverse background in nutrition and home health care, combining expertise in wellness with a deep respect for serving others. I worked for 13 years as a home health care provider, where I developed a strong passion for helping people, before transitioning into the hotel industry as a nutritionist.
Family is at the heart of my life. I am a proud mother of four children (three daughters and one son) and grandmother to sixteen grandchildren. I cherish weekends spent with the grandchildren, enjoying activities like playing Spanish Bingo and teaching them how to cook, sharing my lifelong love of cooking.
In my personal time, I enjoy listening to music, cooking, and trying new dishes. My favorite dish to prepare is my signature “Menudo”, and my favorite color is maroon. My warmth, dedication, and love for teaching others shine through in all that I do.
Ms. Liliana H.
Nutritionist
Hi There!
I’m Ms. Liliana, a Child Care Nutritionist who loves helping little ones grow strong with healthy, tasty meals. When I’m not planning kid-friendly menus, you can find me fishing, dove hunting, doing nails, enjoying music, or checking out truck shows.
I’m all about creating a fun, caring space where kids feel happy, safe, and excited to learn about good food!
•Fueling little bodies and big smiles 😊
ms. Jenesis O.
Toddler/Preschool Teacher
Hi There,
I'm Ms. Jenesis! I'm curious by nature and driven by purpose, I’m someone who enjoys learning, creating, and pushing boundaries. I value meaningful conversations, new experiences, and continuous growth-both personally and professionally. Whether I’m tackling a challenge or exploring something new, I bring a thoughtful, determined approach and a genuine passion for what I do.
I enjoy the simple things-getting outside for a good hike, going on bike rides, and unwinding with a well-earned nap. I like staying active but also appreciate slowing down and recharging. Whether I’m exploring a new trail or just taking it easy, I’m all about balance and enjoying the moment.