Tým základní školy 2. stupeň (MYP)

Jan Švihálek
jan.svihalek(zavinac)isob.cz

I was born in Brno, where I live now together with my family. Both my parents and some of my grandparents are teachers, so my professional path was quite clear. I earned my Master's at the Pedagogical Faculty of Masaryk University specialising in German and Physical Education and I have been teaching PE and German language at various schools since I was a universtity student. I have been working as Head of School at the International School of Brno since it's founding in 2008. I speak English, German, Spanish, Russian and Czech. I am also an active musician, with passion for literature and art.

Sara Akbari
sara.akbari(zavinac)isob.cz

Creating inspirational educational environments has always been an ongoing passion for me. I received my master's degree and teaching degree from London and after working a few years in England, I decided to travel further afield and broaden my horizons. Once I was in Dubai I started my leadership career in an MYP/DP school and decided then that this was the path I would continue, as the IB curriculum truly embodies what education is about, sparking the natural curiosity of students through challenging yet significant inquiry. From Dubai I continued onwards to the German Embassy School of Tehran a PYP school with very high academic standards and diverse cultures, that continued to develop my skills for creating meaningful actions in a global community. I feel very honored to be starting my new career at the International School of Brno with an outstanding group of educators. I was very warmly greeted by the school community in March and I would like to take this opportunity ahead of time to thank my team for fostering, what I know will be, an inspirational, caring and an intellectually stimulating academic year for our students.

Jerbylyn Agtutubo
jerbylyn.agtutubo(zavinac)isob.cz

Hi! I’m Ms Bing. I graduated with a degree in Secondary Education majoring in Mathematics from the Philippine Normal University and completed my Master’s degree in Educational Measurement and Evaluation from Miriam College. I am from the Philippines but have lived in several countries, teaching IB MYP/DP Mathematics to Secondary students for the last 12 years. I taught at a Cambridge IGCSE school in Indonesia, and IB Continuum schools in the Philippines, Mexico, Japan and most recently in Albania. I enjoy traveling and meeting people from different cultures, and working with students from different cultural backgrounds is something I have grown accustomed to. This is my first year at Brno and also at ISOB and I am really excited to be part of this school community.

Dylan Vance
dylan.vance(zavinac)isob.cz

I grew up in Thunder Bay Canada on the north shore of Lake Superior. I have a BA in Philosophy and am currently working towards a Master's in Education specialising in Administrative Leadership. I have been teaching for over ten years and am very proud to see how far ISB has come as I've been here since the beginning. Along with spending time with my family, I love cooking, photography and playing music. I can speak English, Czech and French.

Sean Fogarty
sean.fogarty(zavinac)isob.cz

Hello! My name is Sean and I'm from Ireland! I've been teaching for the past 8 years, so it's something that I am really passionate about. I have a Bachelor's in English Literature and History, a Masters in Training and Education, and I will be studying a Masters in Literature and Language here in Brno! I have worked in a few different countries, but I'm really excited to add the Czech Republic to that list. In my spare time I like playing guitar, travelling and reading.

Paul Guerin
paul.guerin(zavinac)isob.cz

I moved from London to Brno with my family in 2022, having enjoyed a 27 year career teaching a range of subjects at secondary level, leading on IT and business studies, as well as spending the best part of two decades in educational management and leadership as assistant or deputy headteacher. I studied geography with a focus on political and economic geography, and Information Technology at the College of St Mark and St John - Exeter University - before completing my teacher training at the University of Wales.

Sonia Bueno-García
sonia.garcia(zavinac)isob.cz

I am Spanish, from the centre of Barcelona. Initially an Art Historian, I began very soon to teach my language abroad and eventually, after many language courses and collaboration with the Instituto Cervantes, I did my Master’s degree on Applied Languages. I enjoy my time doing many different things but I definitely enjoy travelling, reading and swimming.

Kurt Bonser
kurt.bonser(zavinac)isob.cz

Hi! I am from Livonia, Michigan, U.S.A. I have a bachelor’s degree in Zoology with a minor in Spanish from Northern Michigan University. After that I obtained a teaching certificate in Integrated Science from Madonna University and am qualified to teach all sciences at the secondary level (grade 6 to 12). I am currently working towards my masters in Education Leadership through Madonna University (online of course). I have taught internationally in China for the past 4 years, before that I had taught in American for 2 years. In my spare time I like doing anything outdoors in nature, hiking, running, biking, swimming, and camping.

Chris Quarrie
chris.quarrie(zavinac)isob.cz

I am originally from Canada and have been an international educator for over 25 years, teaching in schools across Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and Malaysia. My teaching experience includes MYP Design, DP Chemistry, and Environmental Systems and Societies, as well as a variety of international science programmes. I am passionate about helping students develop curiosity, creativity and a deeper understanding of the world around them through inquiry and hands-on learning. Outside of school, I enjoy travelling, visiting art museums, painting, watching movies, listening to music, and spending time with my family. I am excited to join the International School of Brno community and look forward to learning and growing together with our students and families.

Tamara Penn
tamara.penn(zavinac)isob.cz

Originally from New York, I have spent most of my adult life living overseas and teaching mathematics at international schools in Asia, Latin America and Europe. My passion is to help students see the beauty and relevance of mathematics in their world. I have a Master's degree in Math and Technology and have worked with the IB for the past 15 years as an MYP/DP mathematics teacher and examiner. In my free time, I enjoy travel adventures, nature photography, learning auto mechanics, and reading mystery novels.

Ondřej Kala
ondrej.kala(zavinac)isob.cz

I am from Brno and I work at ISB from September 2021. I finished my bachelor’s degree in Czech and History at Masaryk University in the summer 2013. Now I study Master’s degree in Palacky University in Olomouc. Before teaching Czech at ISB, I was employed in big worldwide corporates where I worked in several managerial and coordinating positions. I spend my free time with my family, reading and meeting friends while drinking a good coffee.

Borek Čermák
borek.cermak(zavinac)isob.cz

I was born in Bruntál, Czech Republic. Ever since I can remember, I have found the world a fascinating place and wanted to get to know it better. That led me to the UK, where I earned my Bachelor's and Master‘s. I worked on a research project in Tunisia, travelled and volunteered in East Africa, taught in Kenya. Teaching and learning have always been a big passion of mine. I am a strong believer that knowledge needs to be shared. It is the best way to make the world a better place. My other passion is my family and if I am not with them, you will find me either cycling or hiking.

Matthew Keating
matthew.keating(zavinac)isob.cz

Ahoj! My name is Matthew and I’m originally from England. I’ve been teaching in Prague for the past two years, and I’m excited to be starting my first year at ISB!
I have a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (MEng) and, before moving to the Czech Republic, I taught at state and private schools in England, where I completed my PGCE in Secondary Education. This is my seventh year of teaching, and I specialise in Maths and Physics, with additional experience in Design. I’m particularly passionate about bringing engineering and creative problem-solving into the classroom.
Outside of school, I enjoy running, music and travelling.

Martina Hrdá
martina.hrda(zavinac)isob.cz

I am from the South Moravia region in the Czech Republic. My whole life is related to Brno, where I achieved 3 stages of teacher education training: High school of Education, Master´s degree in Upper Secondary School Teacher training with specialization in Czech and Music, and Higher Education in doctoral degree programme in Education at Masaryk University. I have been interested in teaching Czech as a second / foreign language over 10 years. My teaching practise involves the wide range of nationalities and social environments. I worked in asylum centers, Kindergartens, High school, Music school and in many Language schools and was a member of the committee for state examinations in the Czech language. I love to teach Czech in Czech and help people to feel nice in the Czech Republic. The most important things in my life are my daughter, classical music, singing, dancing and playing the piano.

Lara Mayer
lara.mayer(zavinac)isob.cz

I am Australian and have a Bachelor of Education (Primary) from the University of New England. I taught in government schools in Sydney and London, and PYP schools in Kyiv and Ulm (Germany). I love gardening, crafts such as cross stitch and crochet, and visiting new places. I am excited to be here in Brno and am looking forward to learning more about Czech culture.

Vojtěch Bastyan
vojtech.bastyan(zavinac)isob.cz

Hi, my name is Vojta and I am from Kromeriz, Czech Republic. I have a master‘s degree in Education of Biology and Physical Education from Palacky University in Olomouc and doctoral degree in Kinesiology from Masaryk University in Brno. I have lived and worked in Anchorage, Alaska during my studies and worked as a ski instructor in South Lake Tahoe, California after I graduated. I have taught internationally in Tanzania for the past 3 years, before that I had organised and supervised the leisure time activities for children from kindergartens and elementary schools here in Brno. I like sports, outdoor activities and reading travel books. I can speak Czech, English, Swahili and little German.

Petra Doležalová
petra.dolezalova(zavinac)isob.cz

Dobrý den/Hello, my name is Petra Dolezalova. I was born in Brno and recently returned home after 25 years of living and teaching in Australia. During that time, I gained invaluable experience as a high-school teacher and university printmaking lecturer, while also running my own art-therapy practice supporting children with disabilities. On a personal note, I am a practicing artist with a deep passion for exploring various mediums, including painting, ink drawing, ceramics, and printmaking. My work has been widely exhibited and recognised across Australia and Europe. I am excited to bring my expertise in both art and education to the International School of Brno. I believe my diverse background, blending international teaching experience with a deep passion for visual creativity, will enable me to contribute positively to the ISB community. I look forward to connecting with students, parents, and fellow colleagues. If you see me around the school, please don’t hesitate to come and say hello.

Elyce Brady
elyce.brady(zavinac)isob.cz

My name is Elyce Brady and I'm from Ireland. My bachelor's degree was in Religious Education and Music Education (secondary school teaching), awarded by Dublin City University. My master's degree was in Piano Performance and Musicology, awarded by Maynooth University. Now, I am doing my PhD in Musicology at Masaryk University. In the past, I've worked as a music teacher, piano + voice tutor, and an English language educator. I enjoy working with kids and being part of their academic journey.

Gizem Oyman
gizem.oyman(zavinac)isob.cz

My name is Gizem. I have a background in biochemistry with research experience in cell biology and microscopy. I am excited to join ISOB as a Science Laboratory Technician, and I look forward to supporting teachers and students with practical science activities while helping to maintain a safe, organised and engaging laboratory environment. Outside work, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, creative activities and being in nature.

Phoo Myet Chel
phoo.chel(zavinac)isob.cz

Mingalarpar (hello in Burmese)! My name is Phoo Myet Chel, and I’m from Myanmar. I’m currently studying Politics, Media, and Communication at Masaryk University. I also hold a diploma in English from Wall Street English Myanmar and previously worked as a freelance English teacher in Myanmar. I’ve been working at ISB for the past year and really enjoy supporting students in their learning and development and being part of the school community. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, cooking, travelling, and learning about different cultures.

Šárka Kovaříková
sarka.kovarikova(zavinac)isob.cz

I was born in Vyškov and moved to Brno when I was ten. I spent a year of high school in the United States, where I also graduated, which was my first real experience of living and studying in an international environment. During my university studies, I spent a semester in the Netherlands as part of the Erasmus programme. I studied at Hogeschool van Utrecht and also completed part of my teacher training there. I later graduated from Masaryk University with a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education, majoring in Special Education and English Language and Literature. I also have a Bachelor’s Degree in Teaching Foreign Languages, specialising in French. I really enjoy working at ISB because every day brings the opportunity to learn from different people and see various approaches to teaching and learning. Outside of school, I like to spend as much time as possible with my family. I am a big ice hockey fan, but I also enjoy playing and watching other sports, especially volleyball, cycling, skiing and snowboarding.

Lenka Caine
lenka.caine(zavinac)isob.cz

Hi, my name is Lenka Caine. I’m originally from Namest nad Oslavou. I have studied Social Work at Vocational School of Social Matters in Brno. After finishing my studies as a social worker I moved to Uk, where I lived till last year. In Uk I completed Diploma for the Young People’s Workforce and attended many other courses to further progress my knowledge in this field.

Marianna Suarez
marianna.suarez(zavinac)isob.cz

My name is Marianna Suarez, and I was born and raised in Maracaibo - Venezuela, coming from an Italian family, I´ve always carried that multicultural layer that makes ISB the perfect place to develop professionally. I hold a BA in Business Administration but luckily learning and teaching have always been a part of my life. Apart from my professional side, I enjoy discovering the world by traveling and honoring its culture by recreating their typical dishes.

David Jirman
david.jirman(zavinac)isob.cz

Hello, I'm David and I've spent most of my life in Brno. I earned my master's degree in Computer Science from Masaryk University in Brno. My aim is to assist your digital natives in becoming responsible digital citizens with a solid foundation in ICT. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, cooking, spending time in nature, and being in good company.

Corona Čermák
corona.cermak(zavinac)isob.cz

Hello! My name is Corona Čermák. I am from Tanzania and I have lived in Brno for ten years now. I have Bachelors in Laws from the University of London, England. I have been teaching English in the kindergarten and after school clubs for 9 years. I teach Swahili at Masaryk University and online since 2015. I speak Swahili and English and intermediate Czech language. I am an author of children's books. I have so far published 3 children’s books. I enjoy reading, writing, travelling and meeting new people. I have lived and worked in Tanzania, the United Kingdom and the Czech Republic. I have visited Kenya, USA, France, Germany and the Netherlands. I always look forward to new experiences and I am ready for this new adventure with the ISB community.

Jan Navrátil
jan.navratil(zavinac)isob.cz

Hi, my name is Jan and I am from Brno, Czech Republic. I am professional musician and I play the guitar with variety artists. I work for musical theatre (Mestske divadlo Brno) and occasionally I collaborate with the opera or philharmonic orchestras for different shows. I studied at B.I.B.S. (Brno International Business School) for Bachelor's programme and Master's degree in Strategy and Leadership in English. I am looking foward to sharing and exploring world of music with all the students!

Jazmin Herrera
jazmin.herrera(zavinac)isob.cz

Hello! My name is Ms. Jazmin Herrera, and I am one of the new After School Club teachers. I am from the United States of America and am a second year student at Masaryk University working towards a Medical Degree. Some of my hobbies include pottery, reading and learning new languages. With this, I hope to bring a good mixture of science and art into the After School Club for your child(ren) to enjoy. I am honored to be a part of ISB and excited to have the opportunity to work with all of the incredible students at the International School of Brno.

Giulia Zilotti
giulia.zilotti(zavinac)isob.cz

My name is Giulia Zilotti, and despite what my name might suggest, I’m originally from Brazil! Sports have always been a big part of my life and even took me to the United States on a volleyball scholarship. I joined the school in 2024 and have since worked across different areas of Early Years, where I currently teach Physical Education. I also coordinate our outdoor programs, including Adventure Club and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, combining my love for movement, nature, and a good adventure. Outside of school, you’ll often find me playing padel, reading a good book, listening to music, or simply enjoying time outdoors. I’m very happy to be part of our school community and to share my enthusiasm for being active, exploring, and learning through new experiences with our students.

Tereza Straka
tereza.straka(zavinac)isob.cz

Hi, I’m Miss T!
I’m the School Psychologist, and I’m passionate about supporting children and helping them feel safe, heard, and understood.
I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Masaryk University and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Sigmund Freud University in Vienna. I’m also currently completing certified psychotherapy training with Dalet.
Outside of school, I love travelling, surfing, painting, good music, deep conversations, and spending time with my husband, friends, and my dog Ollie.
I believe that sometimes, having someone who truly listens can make all the difference.