MAPLE BEAR CZECHIA | BRNO | The best of Canadian education for a global future.

Our team

At Maple Bear Brno, we are proud of our dedicated team of educators and staff who care for our children every day, inspire them and support their first steps on the path to discovery. We are passionate about creating a safe, stimulating and kind environment where children can explore the world, develop their skills, gain confidence and grow naturally. Meet the people who help create a place where children feel good and can develop their full potential every day.

Kindergarten management team

Maple Bear Brno Základní soukromá česko-anglická škola

Martin Drnek

School Principal

Maple Bear Brno Základní soukromá česko-anglická škola

Marissa McNaughtan

Academic Coordinator

Maple Bear Brno Základní soukromá česko-anglická škola

Lucie Chlubná

Manager for Marketing and Communication with Parents

Back Office Team

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Markéta Pokorná

Administrative Assistant and Receptionist

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Michaela Slavíková

Administrative Assistant and Receptionist

Are you interested in who is behind Maple Bear Brno? We will be happy to introduce you to our team and everyday life at the school

Principal Martin Drnek

Martin Drnek

Principal

I have dedicated my entire professional career to education. I began as a teacher and later contributed to the development of textbooks for secondary schools. For more than eleven years, I worked at Scio, where I led the innovative digitalisation of university entrance examinations using artificial intelligence algorithms. I have also gained experience through international research and commercial international projects. I am the author of a successful tool designed to support the development of emotional intelligence in preschool children, and I have repeatedly shared my expertise on this topic in the media.

At Maple Bear Brno, I bring to life my vision of high-quality, modern, and meaningful education. I believe that a school should be a place where children not only gain knowledge, but also grow as individuals, learn to think critically, collaborate, and better understand themselves and others. The opportunity to help move Czech education forward in a thoughtful and respectful way is both a strong motivation for me and a responsibility I value deeply.

Marissa McNaughtan

Academic Coordinator

I hold degrees in English Language and Early Childhood Education, and my professional path has been closely connected with working with children from the very beginning. I come from Winnipeg, Manitoba, where I grew up and attended public schools, which gave me a strong foundation in the Canadian approach to education. Since childhood, I have had a deep love for literature, language, and storytelling, and this passion naturally became part of my work as a teacher. In my teaching, I focus on developing children’s reading, writing, and communication skills, and I believe that children learn best when they are actively involved, engaged, and encouraged to explore the world in their own way.

At Maple Bear Brno, I bring not only my knowledge of the Canadian education system, but also creativity, enthusiasm for learning, and a caring, thoughtful approach to each child. I see education as much more than academic achievement alone, and I place great importance on children’s social, emotional, and physical well-being as well. What fulfills me most is creating an environment where children feel safe, confident to try new things, and gradually discover both their own strengths and the joy of learning.

Lucie Chlubná

Marketing & Enrolment Manager

I have been working in marketing for nearly ten years and, throughout my professional journey, I have gained extensive experience, including on international projects. In the past, I led the entire marketing team at Oscar Senior, which gave me valuable expertise in strategic leadership, communication, and brand building. My professional background has also led me to speak at a number of prestigious Czech and international conferences, including Engage Conference and DEX Innovation Conference.

At Maple Bear Brno, I lead marketing with a focus on meaningful and authentic communication that reflects the values of the school. At the same time, it is important to me to be there for children and parents who are considering our school and looking for a place where they can feel comfortable and confident. In my work, I bring creativity, years of experience, and a strong sense for relationships, because I believe that open and human communication is one of the foundations of a strong school community.

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Markéta Pokorná

Administrative Assistant & Receptionist

I have been working in childcare and administration since completing my studies. I studied Social Work at the Secondary School of Industry in Brno. Throughout my professional journey, I worked as a caregiver in a children’s group, where I was responsible for daily childcare, supporting children’s development, and contributing to their learning. At the same time, I was also involved in the administrative side of the centre, which gave me valuable experience not only in working directly with children, but also in organisation, coordination, and the smooth running of everyday operations.

At Maple Bear Brno, I bring together experience in working with children, strong organisational skills, and a natural sense for communication. What fulfills me most is being part of a school where I can help create a welcoming, professional, and well-functioning environment for children, parents, and colleagues. I look forward to supporting the school’s marketing and communication, helping organise visits and events, and contributing to the everyday life of the community. I believe that open communication, thoughtful organisation, and a friendly atmosphere play an important role in how families experience school life. In my free time, I enjoy sports, travelling, and spending time with my family and friends.

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Michaela Slavíková

Administrative Assistant & Receptionist

I graduated from the Faculty of Sports Studies at Masaryk University with a degree in Physical Education and Sport. After completing my studies, I gained extensive experience as a physical education teacher at both primary and secondary schools, where I was also involved in school projects and administrative support. I further developed my experience through coaching in a gymnastics club, managing club administration, and working in a kindergarten. These roles have given me a broad perspective on school life and have shown me how important it is to connect teaching, organisation, and everyday support for children.

At Maple Bear Brno, I bring experience from both working with children and the administrative side of school life, and I value the opportunity to contribute to a high-quality and well-functioning educational environment. What fulfills me most is being part of a place where children can grow in a safe, inspiring, and respectful atmosphere. I believe that the combination of movement, structure, kindness, and reliable support helps create a school where both children and adults feel comfortable and supported.