Central Oregon Early Learning Hub
Our mission is to walk alongside community partners and families to create a thriving early education community. We focus on systems that ensure all kids, birth to five, have a strong start for their future.
Rooted in Central Oregon, Krissa spent much of her professional career providing leadership and support for student services, academic programs and community partnerships for Central Oregon Community College. Her passion for supporting early learners and their families brought her to the Early Learning Hub in January 2025.
Watching his two children grow and learn fostered Zach’s interest in early education. Seeing a need for expanded access, he changed careers and began working for the Early Learning Hub in 2024. Zach works to increase participation in, and awareness of, early childhood education programs throughout Central Oregon.
Paola is an immigrant and a passionate supporter of families. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in marriage and family studies, which enabled her to work with families of school-age children and adults seeking higher education. She joined the Early Learning Hub as part of the Family Connects Central Oregon team and later transitioned to a manager role within the home visiting field.
Diana is originally from Colombia and first came to the United States through a cultural exchange program in 2018. Throughout her time in that program, Diana had many opportunities to connect with children and their families while embracing a new culture, language, and environment. Diana brings a unique blend of experience, passion and dedication, with the goal of providing families and children with the necessary resources to grow and succeed.
Joen
Early Learning Family Engagement Specialist
joen.santamaria@hdesd.org
(541) 241-8744
Before joining the Early Learning HUB, Mary worked for 12 years in public education as a classroom teacher, intervention specialist and MTSS administrator. Her passion for equitable education and systems now drives the work she does at the Early Learning HUB to advance regional projects.
Born in Guadalajara, Mexico and raised in California, Joen moved to Central Oregon six years ago and is proud to call it home. As a bilingual English and Spanish speaker, she is passionate about helping families feel connected, informed, and supported. Her background includes family support, case management, community outreach, and helping individuals and families navigate complex systems and access important resources. Inspired by her own experiences growing up in an immigrant family, Joen is honored to be part of a team dedicated to helping children and families thrive. Outside of work, Joen enjoys spending time with her family, supporting her son in the U.S. Air Force, and spoiling her Yorkie, Coco.
Address
2363 SW Glacier Place
Redmond, Oregon 97756
Stop by and visit us
Monday thru Friday 10 AM - 2 PM
Appointments also available!
