MAPLE BEAR CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE | The best of Canadian education for a global future.

We grow together!
April 18th, Prague, Czechia

Program

April 18th Saturday

Dress code: Business casual

Location: Vienna Hall

08:30 – 09:00

Welcome and Registration

09:00 – 09:30

Welcome to the We Grow Together Conference

by Yann Bidan and Justin Nichols

09:30 – 10:30

A Deep Dive into the New Curriculum:
The A’s Framework - Activate, Acquire, Apply, and Assess and Inquiry Based Learning Core

with Martine Lewis

A look at how inquiry is intentionally embedded and supported within the new Maple Bear curriculum, guided by Martine’s global expert perspective. Teachers will gain clarity on curriculum structures, expectations, and classroom practice shifts that enable inquiry-based learning to be both rigorous and purposeful.

10:30 - 11:00

Coffee Break and Networking

Location: Vienna and Valleta Halls

11:00 – 12:00

Shifting the Balance:
Incorporating the Science of Reading into a Balanced Literacy Program

with Tammy-Lynne Peel

Collaborative session which explores the global, research-based shift toward the Science of Reading and what it means for literacy instruction in bilingual Maple Bear classrooms. Educators will leave with a clear understanding of the research foundations, instructional implications, and practical shifts needed to support all students in becoming skilled readers.

12:00 – 13:00

Lunch Break and Networking

Location: Restaurant Bohemia

13:00 – 13:40

Scholastic & BookFlix:
Supporting Your Classroom

with Alissa Valiante from Scholastic

This session shows teachers how to seamlessly integrate Scholastic and BookFlix into daily lessons to enhance literacy instruction and student engagement. Teachers will focus on assigning targeted resources, differentiating reading experiences, and extending learning beyond the classroom to support home-school connections. 

13:45 – 15:00

Jumping into the Maple Bear Maths curriculum:
Activity based learning

with Martine Lewis and Tammy-Lynne Peel

This interactive conference session explores how activity-based learning builds deep conceptual understanding, strengthens problem-solving skills, and fosters a love for mathematics in learners.

15:00 - 15:30

Coffee Break and Networking

Location: Vienna and Valleta Halls

15:30 – 16:30

Global Connections:
Ways We Partner – Intro by Martine Lewis and Tammy-Lynne
Show and tell led by schools in the Maple Bear CEE Network

Location: Vienna Hall

Through a dynamic “Show and Share” led by schools member, participants will explore real examples of cross-school projects, cultural exchanges, and innovative teaching initiatives that strengthen our community and enrich student learning. Come ready to be inspired, connect with peers, and discover new ways to partner across our network.

15:30 – 16:30

What’s New in Kinderpedia:
AI, Transparency & Connected School Communities

with Evelina Necula & Daniel Rogoz

Location: Valleta Hall

This session explores the latest Kinderpedia features designed to simplify school operations and strengthen the connection between teachers, families, and school leaders. From AI tools that support clearer communication and more personalised learning, to new modules that bring transparency and shared motivation, Incidents & Accidents and Rewards & Sanctions, participants will discover practical ways to enhance daily workflows.
The session will also introduce the new Admissions Module, designed to seamlessly integrate the family journey into Kinderpedia. The final part of the session is dedicated to an open “Ask Me Anything” with Daniel Rogoz, co-founder and CEO of Kinderpedia

16:30 – 17:30

Assessment to inform Practice

with Justin Nichols

Location: Vienna Hall

This interactive session emphasizes practical, classroom-ready strategies that middle school teachers can implement immediately. Attendees will leave with tools and protocols for turning raw numbers into actionable steps that support student growth, engagement, and achievement.

16:30 – 17:30

How do we build an incredible unit:
Unit planning – Building a unit using the new curriculum.

with Trisha Pospisil

Location: Valleta Hall

Collaborative session during which participants will focus on how to structure lessons, integrate cross-curricular connections, and design activities that promote critical thinking, creativity, and student engagement. Leave with actionable insights and a step-by-step approach to crafting units that inspire both teachers and learners.

17:30 - 18:00

Closing and Take aways

20:00 – 22:30

Gala Recognition Dinner and Networking

Location: Vienna Hall
We grow together!
April 18th, Prague, Czechia

Speakers

Martine Lewis

Chief Academic Officer
Maple Bear Global Schools

Dr. Martine Lewis is a distinguished education leader with over 30 years of experience in the field. She holds a PhD in Educational Leadership from the University of Toronto, OISE College and has dedicated her career to improving educational outcomes for students of all backgrounds. Dr. Lewis was a teacher, principal and most recently a Superintendent of Education for a large school board in Ontario, before joining Maple Bear Global Schools in 2023. She holds certificates from Harvard University’s Creating Cultures of Thinking program, Educating Global Citizens and from John Hattie’s Visible Learning.

Her expertise lies in curriculum design and implementation, educational policy, systems thinking and collaboration. She has published numerous articles in educational publications and continues to research best practice around the globe. As an educational leader, she is recognized for her skills in building trust, developing relationships and fostering a culture of collaboration while upholding equitable and inclusive values.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Dr. Lewis is passionate about mentoring the next generation of educators and leaders. She is committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and lifelong learning at Maple Bear Global Schools.

Tammy-Lynne Peel

Director of Training and Professional Development
Maple Bear Global Schools

Tammy-Lynne Peel is a leader and educator with over 30 years of experience in Ontario schools. She earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University with a focus on mentoring and training, and holds certificates from Harvard University’s Creating Cultures of Thinking program, and from John Hattie’s Visible Learning Institute.

Tammy-Lynne has led professional development initiatives in classroom management, literacy instruction, mathematics, and equitable education. As a Superintendent of Education, she directed professional learning communities focused on Teaching and Learning Critical Pathways and chaired system-level improvement teams. Her responsibilities included developing mentoring and professional development opportunities for educators and leaders and establishing performance appraisal criteria.

Justin Nichols

Regional Academic Director Middle and High School
Maple Bear CEE

Justin Nichols is an experienced school leader specialising in startups, accreditation, compliance and change management.

Overseen expansion of schools, building construction and project management, management of EU funding.

As an active classroompractitioner, I lead from the front.Experienced with Cambridge and Pearson IGCSE/A-Levels, and the IB.Sucessfully led schools through BSO accredidation and COBIS Patreon Awards

Trisha Pospisil

Regional Academic Director Kindergarten & Elementary
Maple Bear CEE

Trisha Pospisil is an experienced international K–12 school leader with over 23 years’ experience in accreditation, teacher development, and secondary leadership. 

Skilled in designing coherent instructional programmes, aligning admissions and advancement with compelling communications, and building high-performing teams. Evidence-informed and data-driven, I strengthen school culture, improve outcomes, and promote student agency. 

Experienced in boarding leadership, safeguarding, and pastoral systems, and adept at leading cross-school initiatives and accreditation, including IB, BSO, and Cognia. 

Known for collaborative leadership, strong community partnerships, and a commitment to ensuring every student and colleague is seen, valued, and thriving.

We grow together!
April 18th, Prague, Czechia

Conference Location

Panorama By Verdi Hotel

Panorama By Verdi is located only four metro stops from the city centre, which boasts a number of architectural and cultural treasures such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge and The Church of Our Lady Before

Conference hall: Vienna

We grow together!
April 18th, Prague, Czechia

Accommodation

Panorama By Verdi Hotel

Panorama Hotel Prague offers all the comfort and quality service of a first-class international hotel. With easy transport to the historic centre and more (approx. 10 min, only 4 metro stops), it’s the ideal base to meet, relax and explore.

Panorama By Verdi is located at 7 minutes walking distance from the Maple Bear Prague School!

Single room (breakfast included)*

135 EUR

Double room (single beds, breakfast included) *

145 EUR

Address

Milevska 7 14063 Prague

*The above rates are inclusive of breakfast, Wi-Fi Internet connection, VAT. City tax of CZK 50 / EUR 2 is excluded. VAT and city tax are subject to change.

We grow together!
April 18th, Prague, Czechia

Travel

Traveling to Prague by Plane

Prague is a highly accessible European destination, offering excellent connections from Central and Eastern Europe and beyond. Václav Havel Airport Prague serves as a major international hub, with direct flights from numerous European cities and convenient connections worldwide. Located approximately 17 kilometers from the city center, the airport provides easy and efficient access to Prague’s historic core.

For assistance with visa arrangements, please don’t hesitate to contact the Maple Bear CEE team. We are happy to support you in making your travel experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.

We look forward to welcoming you to Prague!

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Traveling to Prague by Car

Prague’s central location makes it easily reachable by road from many countries across Central and Eastern Europe. Modern highways and well-developed infrastructure ensure a comfortable journey.

From Poland

  • Enter the Czech Republic via border crossings near Wrocław or Katowice.
  • The drive to Prague takes approximately 4–6 hours, depending on the starting city and route.
  • Main routes include the D11 and D8 highways.

From Ukraine

  • Travel via Poland or Slovakia, depending on your point of departure.
  • The journey typically takes 12–16 hours, depending on border crossing times.
  • Border crossings: Ukraine → Poland/Slovakia → Czech Republic.
  • Ensure you carry a valid passport, vehicle documents, and Green Card insurance.

From Bulgaria

  • Travel via Serbia and Hungary, or alternatively via Romania and Slovakia.
  • The drive to Prague takes approximately 14–16 hours, depending on the route.
  • The journey offers diverse landscapes and well-maintained European highways.

From Romania

  • The most common route passes through Hungary and Slovakia.
  • The drive from Bucharest to Prague takes approximately 12–14 hours.
  • Major highways provide a smooth and efficient journey through multiple countries.

Please note that motorway vignettes are required for driving on Czech highways and can be purchased online or at border crossings.

Whether you are traveling from the north, east, or south, Prague’s excellent road connectivity ensures a safe and enjoyable journey to the conference.

Maple Bear CEE Academic Conference
April 18th, Prague, Czechia

Experience Prague

Prague, Czech Republic

A Living Fairytale of Europe

Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, is a city where centuries of history unfold against a backdrop of stunning architecture and timeless charm, seamlessly blended with a vibrant modern spirit.

Set along the winding Vltava River, Prague is one of Europe’s best-preserved historic cities, with a legacy spanning more than a thousand years. Its story is written in cobblestone streets, majestic bridges, and spired skylines that have inspired generations.

This rich heritage makes Prague a true open-air museum, filled with iconic landmarks, artistic treasures, and the echoes of Europe’s cultural past.

Cultural Heritage

Prague’s historic center is a masterpiece of architectural and cultural heritage.

From the awe-inspiring Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world, to the iconic Charles Bridge with its baroque statues, the city offers unforgettable views at every turn. The Old Town Square, with its famous Astronomical Clock, brings medieval history vividly to life.

Prague’s cultural landscape is equally rich, featuring world-class museums, art galleries, classical music venues, and historic theaters that reflect the city’s deep artistic roots.

European and Bohemian Gastronomy

Prague delights food lovers with a cuisine that combines hearty Czech traditions with contemporary European influences.

From traditional dishes such as svíčková, goulash, and freshly baked kolach, to modern restaurants reimagining Bohemian flavors, the city offers a diverse and welcoming dining scene. Renowned for its beer culture, Prague is home to historic breweries and cozy beer halls, alongside elegant cafés and fine dining experiences.

Local Czech wines and craft beers add a distinctive character to every meal.

A City of Contrasts

Historic Prague harmoniously blends with a dynamic modern lifestyle.

Elegant avenues, contemporary architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods complement the city’s medieval core. Peaceful green spaces like Letná Park and Petřín Hill offer panoramic views of the city, while lively districts such as Malá Strana and Wenceslas Square pulse with cafés, shops, and cultural life.

A Gateway to Discovery

Prague is more than a destination – it is a gateway to discovery.

Just beyond the city, visitors can explore picturesque castles, charming towns, and scenic countryside. Whether you are drawn by history, captivated by culture, or inspired by its atmosphere, Prague offers an experience that is both enriching and unforgettable.

A city of beauty, stories, and inspiration — Prague invites you to explore, connect, and return again and again.

Maple Bear CEE Academic Conference
April 18th, Prague, Czechia

Registration

Registration Fee

What Does the Registration Fee Include?

Your registration fee for the Maple Bear CEE Teachers Conference covers a truly enriching and memorable experience, including:

PARTICIPATION FEE:

for Teachers: 0 EUR

PARTICIPATION FEE:

for Administrative, Management Staff, Coordinators, Principals: 49 EUR*

* Fees may be subject to VAT and other applicable taxes.

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM

Registration is closed.

Ask your questions in Slido

During the conference you can ask questions in our Slido.