By Jay Hoberecht
Samantha Cheatham is in her 32nd year of teaching! As a veteran of the classroom, she teaches sixth grade math at Oklahoma Bible Academy. Plus, she is the Educational Therapist for the Discovery Program, Academic Support Services Director and Varsity Cheer Coach. Add-in 34 years of marriage to James Cheatham, four children (Jacob 31, Courtney 27, Jett 22 and Jud 18) and two grandchildren and you have a lady that leads a full, rewarding life.
Samantha wanted to major in business and follow her parents who owned an electrical contracting business. But, two weeks at summer camp before she went to college changed everything. She went to summer camp for special needs kids. She has spent 29 years in special education. I asked Samantha about special education and she told me it involves “those students who are identified through a comprehensive evaluation process that qualifies them for additional individualized services.” The team (parents and teachers) determine what is best for the student.
The Discovery Program is for any child needing assistance and is not subject specific. She called it “physical therapy for the brain.” It involves the process of thinking. The Discovery Program is twice a week for 80 minutes.
Finally, but not last, is varsity cheer. Samantha is in her 12th year of being a cheer coach. She smiled and told me one of the reasons she stays involved in cheer is that it is not academic. It is fun! She gets to see a different side of the kids.
Oklahoma Bible Academy Headmaster Andy Wilkens, called Samantha “the epitome of effective professional classroom educator.” He added, “Her years of special education experience and expertise allows more students to be successful in OBA’s aggressive college prep curriculum.” “Her godly wisdom permeates her employment at OBA and it is much appreciated.”
So, what does Samantha Cheatham do for fun? Well, she likes watching football. Her two sons play football at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas. She never turns down an opportunity to babysit her two grandkids. The ages and stages of life!Samantha Cheatham is a teacher that changes lives every day!
