Our Team

At Maple Bear Brno, we are proud to have a dedicated team of educators and staff who inspire, nurture, and empower our students every single day. Our passionate team is committed to fostering bilingual education and creating an environment where every child can grow, thrive, and succeed. Meet the people who make this possible

School Leadership Team

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Martin Drnek

Principal

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Marissa McNaughtan

Academic Coordinator

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Lucie Chlubná

Marketing & Enrolment Manager

Academic Team

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Markéta Alexová

Grade 0 Teacher

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Lorraine Lourens

Grade 0 Teacher

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Barbora Anna Velčovská

Grade 1 Teacher

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Maddy Rasmussen

Grade 1 Teacher

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Tereza Kondrátová

Special Education Teacher

Anna Janebová - základní škola Maple Bear Brno

Anna Janebová

Teaching Assistant

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Kate Taylor

After School Educator

Back Office Team

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Markéta Pokorná

Administrative Assistant & Receptionist

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Michaela Slavíková

Administrative Assistant & Receptionist

Curious about who we are? Reach out, we’re happy to share more about our team and school life

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

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.

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

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.

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

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 Alexová

Teacher Grade 0

I hold a degree in Teaching and Special Education from Masaryk University. Throughout my professional journey, I have gained teaching experience in both Czech and international environments, including a placement at a British school. These experiences have given me a broader perspective on education and have strengthened my belief in the importance of adapting learning to the needs of each individual child while creating a supportive and stimulating environment.

At Maple Bear Brno, I find great meaning in helping children build their confidence and communication skills. My goal is for children to come to school with joy and to feel comfortable, safe, and happy there. I believe that in such an environment, children can grow naturally, discover their strengths, and develop a positive relationship with learning. In my free time, I enjoy travelling, learning languages, and making music, as these interests continue to inspire me and enrich the way I work with children.

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Lorraine Lourens

Teacher Grade 0

I hold a degree in Education from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa, and I also have a TEFL qualification. I joined Maple Bear as a Grade Zero teacher, building on my previous experience teaching first-year students. Education has always been close to my heart, both professionally and personally, and throughout my journey, I have come to value how important it is to guide children with care through their first experiences at school.

At Maple Bear Brno, I find great meaning in supporting children on their educational journey and helping them discover the world with joy, confidence, and a love of learning. I care deeply about creating a classroom where every child feels safe, actively engaged, and able to grow at their own pace in a positive and stimulating environment. I also look forward to working closely with parents, because I believe that an open and respectful relationship between school and family plays an important role in a child’s development. In my free time, I enjoy painting, bouldering, and playing board games, which bring creativity, joy, and fresh inspiration into my work with children.

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Barbora Anna Velčovská

Teacher Grade 1

I studied Elementary School Teaching at the University of Ostrava. Throughout my professional journey, I have gained experience in both Czech and international school environments, including a Montessori school and the Czech School Without Borders in London. I also found valuable inspiration for my work with children in New Zealand, where I was able to broaden my perspective on education and on the many different ways children can explore the world around them.

At Maple Bear Brno, I bring energy, openness, and a willingness to explore new approaches that help children grow with joy and confidence. I believe that every child should have the opportunity to discover, experiment, and learn at their own pace. I feel deeply connected to the motto Help me do it by myself, because independence, trust in one’s own abilities, and natural curiosity are, to me, an essential part of a child’s development. In my free time, I enjoy dancing, travelling, doing sports, and enjoying a good cup of tea, as these moments also bring me inspiration and joy that I carry into my work with children.

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Maddy Rasmussen

Teacher Grade 1

I am originally from Minneapolis, USA, and I have four years of teaching experience, primarily in third grade. Throughout my teaching practice, I have worked with children from a variety of cultural backgrounds, which has deepened my passion for supporting multilingual learners and creating an environment where every child can grow naturally. In my work, I see education as not only about academic learning, but also about building relationships, trust, and a sense of safety that allows children to truly thrive.

At Maple Bear Brno, I bring creativity, openness, and a genuine joy for discovery. I enjoy planning meaningful and engaging projects and excursions, such as museum visits, that help children learn through real experiences and deeper connections. I believe that when children feel safe, accepted, and part of a supportive classroom community, they are able to reach their full potential. In my free time, I enjoy photography, running, travelling, and spending time with my family, all of which bring inspiration into my work with children.

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Tereza Kondrátová

Special Education Teacher

I hold a degree in Special Education from Palacký University Olomouc. Throughout my professional journey, I have worked with children in the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and Uganda, where I was involved not only in teaching, but also in training local teachers. These experiences have given me a broader perspective on education and strengthened my belief in how important it is to see each child as an individual and to approach them with respect, understanding, and openness.

At Maple Bear Brno, I bring a strong focus on individual support, a sensitive understanding of children’s needs, and a commitment to creating an environment where every child feels safe and accepted. I believe that the key to supporting children lies in truly understanding them and building relationships based on trust. What fulfills me most is guiding children in a way that helps them develop their strengths, experience joy in learning, and grow at their own pace. In my free time, I enjoy travelling, sports, baking, and playing the violin, as these activities also bring me inspiration and energy for my work with children.

Anna Janebová - základní škola Maple Bear Brno

Anna Janebová

Teaching Assistant

I studied Social Pedagogy and Counselling with a focus on working with children and young people, social risk prevention, and supporting education in inclusive settings. At Maple Bear Brno, I work as a teaching assistant, where I bring together my academic background and a naturally caring, empathetic approach to children every day. I believe that a safe, supportive, and respectful environment is an essential foundation for children to learn well, grow with confidence, and truly feel happy at school.

At Maple Bear Brno, I bring kindness, sensitivity, and a genuine interest in the needs of each child. What fulfills me most is being a steady source of support for children in their everyday classroom life and helping to create an atmosphere where they feel accepted and able to grow with trust and confidence. I come from Choceň, and in my free time I enjoy dancing, low-cost travel, backpacking, and spending time in nature, which helps me recharge and find inspiration.

Maple Bear Brno Elementary Private Czech-English School

Kate Taylor

After School Educator

I studied Medicine, which gave me a strong foundation in understanding people with sensitivity and in paying attention to their individual needs and overall well-being. I come from Wales and moved to the Czech Republic because I wanted to experience a new culture and become part of a different environment. I am also currently learning Czech, which I see as an important part of my life here and of my everyday communication with children and colleagues.

At Maple Bear Brno, I am excited to be part of the after-school club and to help create a safe, joyful, and stimulating environment for children after the school day ends. What fulfills me most is getting to know each child as a unique individual and discovering the small things that make them special. I look forward to all the activities planned throughout the year and to spending time with children in a way that supports their curiosity, relationships, and joy in everyday experiences. In my free time, I enjoy horse riding, reading, and exploring nature through hiking.

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.