Chalene Harshman (Infant Toddler Specialist)

Chalene Harshman was born and raised in Baker City, where she still resides and is raising her family. Chalene is very excited and grateful to serve the surrounding communities in this role. Prior to this role, she was a Substance Use Disorder Counselor for New Directions Northwest, Alternative Incarceration Program at Powder River Correctional Facility. Chalene had the privilege to work with individuals who wanted to better themselves as a father, husband, son and friend. Before working for New Directions Northwest, Chalene served her community as a Teller and Banker for Wells Fargo for 6 years until the location was closed. During this time, she was attending college and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Development. Ever since she was a child, her passion for helping others has always been important, and as she grew older, helping children became her focus. Chalene loves deepening her knowledge around early learning and the impact of trauma.

Kyla Emerson (Quality Improvement Specialist )

Kyla Emerson grew up in the rural town of Monument, Oregon.  Kyla graduated from TVCC with her Associate’s in Early Childhood Education.  Prior to this role, Kyla worked at a daycare in Meridian, Idaho where she was the lead teacher of the two year old classroom. Working with children has always been a passion of Kyla’s, so the opportunity to work with the providers and early childhood educators is very important to her!  

Outside of work, Kyla enjoys spending time with her family and friends.  Kyla’s favorite thing to do is spend time cooking with her grandmother back home in Monument.  When Kyla is not doing these things, she is spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, or hiking.