Ryan and Markéta Goodwin – With over 30 years of combined experience in the field of education and childcare, we are fulfilling our dream to build a school that successfully prepares young children for the challenges of higher learning and becoming compassionate and intelligent human beings in our rapidly changing world.
Ryan – Originally from Littleton, Colorado, USA, I moved to Prague in 1999 as an exchange student. Before returning to the Czech Republic in 2000, I graduated Cum Laude with a degree in business and marketing at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado.
I began teaching at the University of Economics in Prague before finding my first preschool position in 2005. Teaching children at this age is so rewarding because of their desire to learn, their unique way of seeing the world, and the laughter we share in observing it. In addition to designing fun, challenging lessons and worksheets for our students, I have enjoyed writing and directing over 30 school plays.
Sustaining meaningful relationships with our students and their families is so important that I continue to teach former students privately; the oldest is already in university studies! I also enjoy sharing my passion for history, reading, and logic puzzles with our students. Raising our children, Ryley and Zara, have only strengthened my commitment to giving children a lasting education and a memorable childhood.
Markéta – Raised in Příbram, I studied civil engineering before leaving to live and work in England as an au pair. For two years, I cared for children ranging in age from 4 to 11 years old before taking a position caring for patients with muscular dystrophy. Throughout my time in England, I studied English language and Linguistics at Canterbury College.
In 2005, I was given the opportunity to become the manager of a newly-opened English language preschool in Prague. Having the opportunity to share my passion for art and design with children has been an immensely rewarding experience. After our son, Ryley, was born, I continued to work in a limited capacity designing background sets and costumes for the school theater as well as decorative art for seasonal displays and celebrations. The opportunity to continue guiding children through their educational development is a constant source of inspiration and fulfillment.
The Academy at Marina 