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 is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse background in military service, law enforcement, leadership, and business. 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 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. 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 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 Ortega
Assistant Director
My name is Stephanie Ortega, 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.
Ms. Diamond D.
Certified Toddler teacher
Ms Diamond is thrilled to be teaching children and working with Mama Bear Learning Center. She graduated from Highlands High School in 2019.
In her free time, Ms. Diamond enjoys watching movies and gong to events. She especially loves family time with her kids.
Here are a few of her favorites:
* Favorite Color: Black
* Favorite Food: Spaghetti
* Favorite Hobby: Going to the movies
* Favorite Animal: Horse
* Favorite Drink: Coffee
Ms. Araceli Cabrera
Certified Infant Teacher
Hello! My name is Araceli Cabrera (Mrs. C.). 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. Nina Zarate
Head Nutritionist
Ms. Nina brings a diverse background in nutrition and home health care, combining expertise in wellness with a deep respect for serving others. She worked for 13 years as a home health care provider, where she developed a strong passion for helping people, before transitioning into the hotel industry as a nutritionist.
Family is at the heart of Ms. Nina’s life. She is a proud mother of four children (three daughters and one son) and grandmother to sixteen grandchildren. She cherishes her weekends spent with her grandchildren, enjoying activities like playing Spanish Bingo and teaching them how to cook, sharing her lifelong love of cooking.
In her personal time, Ms. Nina enjoys listening to music, cooking, and trying new dishes. Her favorite dish to prepare is her signature “Menudo”, and her favorite color is maroon. Her warmth, dedication, and love for teaching others shine through in all she does.
Ms. BIanca Chavez
Certified Toddler/Pre-School Teacher
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. Loina Cruz
Certified Infant/Toddler Teacher
Hello my name is Loina Cruz from the Philippines archipelago, married to a respiratory therapist and we have one adorable son. I was a day care and a kindergarten teacher in the Philippines for 10 years, and a childcare assistant in Fort Sam Houston for almost a year before I became pregnant with my wonderful son, Sealtiel.
Teachers come in many forms and there is no profession more noble than teaching, the backbone of everything. During my leisure time, I love to hike, cook, watch asian dramas, and travelling with my family.
Ms. Olivia Williams
Certified Toddler/Pre-School Teacher
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. Juliee Rodriguez
Certified Toddler/Pre-School Teacher
Bio coming soon!