Heather Chatham

Heather Chatham is the Founder and CEO of Chatty Learners LLC, where she leads educational consulting and advocacy initiatives dedicated to transforming learning through reading instruction, play-based strategies, and family engagement. She is passionate about empowering every child to reach their full potential by creating joyful, inclusive learning environments that honor each child’s unique strengths. Heather bridges cutting-edge educational research with practical classroom applications, partnering with schools, districts, programs, families, and communities to implement evidence-based literacy practices and play-centered learning approaches.

With over two decades of experience in early childhood and K-12 education, Heather has served in leadership roles including Early Literacy Coordinator for Grand Forks Public Schools, Education Specialist with the Department of Defense Education Activity, and Special Education Teacher at Woodfield Academy. Her work has included co-authoring state literacy frameworks, leading professional development for educators, and implementing research-based interventions to improve outcomes for diverse learners. Heather is actively involved in addressing early childhood education challenges in North Dakota, advocating for community involvement, supporting children with ADHD, and creating programs that expose youth to diverse career pathways. She also emphasizes neurodiversity, encouraging children and educators to understand and embrace unique learning differences as a strength.

Heather holds a Master of Science in Reading Instruction, with graduate certificates in Instructional Coaching and Reading Science from the University of North Dakota, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Central Washington University. She is certified in LETRS, Active Parenting, Conscious Discipline, SEEDS, and Family Engagement, blending both heart and science in her approach. Whether leading statewide literacy initiatives, mentoring educators, fostering community connections, or advocating for policies that put children first, Heather is committed to ensuring every child has access to joyful, engaging education that celebrates their potential and lays the foundation for lifelong success.

• Instructional Coach Graduate Certificate
• Reading Science Graduate Certificate
• LETRS
• LETRS Early Childhood Facilitator
• Family Engagement Specialist

• University of North Dakota - MS
• Central Washington University - BA
• Central Washington University - BEd
• Bellevue College - AAS

• NEACTE

• European PTA - President Elect
• Aviano Elementary PTA - Treasurer
• USA Girl Scouts Overseas - Board Council Member
• USA Girl Scouts Overseas - Troop Leader
• BioGirls - Mentor