PRESCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Ms. Joanna Rechnio-Haciuk
I have had the privilege of serving as the Preschool Principal for the past 16 years.
I hold an MA in French Philology with teacher training from the University of Warsaw, as well as postgraduate qualifications in Early Years Education in English from the Faculty of Pedagogy at Warsaw University. Additionally, I completed postgraduate studies in Educational Management and Early Years and Elementary Education (ages 3-9), including Special Educational Needs.
My professional journey includes four enriching years in London, where I taught in multicultural preschools, including Parsons Green Prep School in Fulham & Chelsea. During my time in the UK, I completed several professional development courses, such as Food Safety, First Aid, Effective Use of Interactive Whiteboards, and the comprehensive Using the New Early Years Foundation Stage course. In 2006, I was awarded Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) by the General Teaching Council for England.
Since returning to Poland in 2008, I have been part of The Canadian School of Warsaw, a place I’ve grown deeply connected to. To support our transition into the IB PYP (Primary Years Programme) community, I have successfully completed six IB workshops:
- Making the PYP Happen
- Teaching and Learning in the PYP
- Pedagogical Leadership in the PYP
- Action in the PYP
- Concept-Based Learning
- Approaches to Learning
It has been an incredible journey to help shape one of the few IB PYP preschools in Poland, where children are nurtured holistically and encouraged to develop essential life skills both inside and outside the classroom.
As educators, we strive to embody the PYP Learner Profile, serving as role models and guiding young minds with care and intention. We take our responsibility seriously, ensuring that every child feels safe, supported, and inspired. Whether it’s their emotional well-being, cognitive development, friendships, or sense of fairness, we are committed to making sure that every child enjoys their preschool experience every single day.
PRESCHOOL OFFICE COORDINATOR
Ms. Kamila Kozicka
My name is Kamila Kozicka and I am the proud Preschool Office Coordinator at The Canadian School of Warsaw. I am a graduate of the English Institute at Warsaw University, with a specialization in translation and additional pedagogical qualifications.
My professional journey began in the world of publishing, where I worked as a proofreader and editor. Yet it was joining The Canadian School of Warsaw in 2006 that truly allowed me to spread my wings and make full use of my skills and passions.
I first served as the Elementary School Office Coordinator, where I had the privilege of participating in the inspiring IB training Making the PYP Happen. Later, I continued my adventure as the Middle School Office Coordinator. Since 2013, I have had the immense joy and honor of being part of our Canadian Preschool team – a place that I consider not only my workplace, but also a second home filled with energy, warmth, and children’s laughter.
TEACHERS
Teacher: Ms. Monika
My name is Monika and I am very excited to be joining the CSW team as the Smilies Homeroom teacher!
I worked as an ESL teacher for eight years before deciding that I wanted to make the change to Preschool, which I did last (academic) year, teaching at an international preschool in Warsaw.
I am originally from London, England and have lived in Poland, Warsaw, for around fifteen years. I completed a BA in Graphic design at the University of the Arts London and later both the TEFL and CELTA qualifications, and taught students of all ages and levels.
Teacher: Ms. Basia
My name is Basia, I was born, raised and educated in Florida, USA, and I am a native speaker of English. I graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences in 2022.
I hold a Teaching English as a Foreign Language certificate and have worked with children as an English tutor and ballet teacher. I have always been involved in theater and dance, and I love incorporating the arts in all I do.
I enjoy helping students learn about themselves and the world around them, and creating a positive environment that feels safe, accepting, and fun.
Teacher: Mr. Brent
My name is Mr. Brent and I was born and raised in the USA. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism from West Virginia University, a U.S. teaching license in Early Childhood–Grade 4 with English as a Second Language certification, and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. I have also completed the Making the PYP Happen in the Early Years: Implementing Agency course, which has helped me to create engaging, inquiry-based lessons that foster literacy, language development, and curiosity.
I taught kindergarten for eight years, pre-K for two years, and first and second grade for a year each, in addition to teaching ESL to students as young as 3 and those nearing retirement age. Most of my teaching career has been in Asia and Europe, but before moving abroad I taught in Austin, Texas for four years.
My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and inspiring classroom environment that celebrates diverse cultures, nurtures kindness, and partners with families to inspire children to become lifelong learners.
Teacher: Ms. Olivia
My name is Olivia. I was raised bilingual in an English-Polish family and spent most of my childhood in Oxfordshire, England. I have also lived in Poland and Bosnia, where I attended a Montessori school, an experience that shaped my appreciation for multicultural education. I completed my A-levels in English Literature, Sociology, and Drama before earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Acting from Bath Spa University in 2024.
After returning to Warsaw, I began combining acting projects with teaching English to children. I am currently completing a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) qualification to further develop my teaching skills. My background in acting, dance, and singing allows me to bring creativity and energy into the classroom and create engaging, dynamic lessons. I am passionate about helping children grow in confidence, express themselves freely, and believe in their own potential.
Teacher: Ms. Natalia
I am originally from Poland, but I have lived in London since I was four years old. I graduated from the University of West London with a degree in Criminology with Policing and Forensic Investigation, and I also hold a certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language. I have had the opportunity to teach English to children in a variety of settings – from local homestays in Asia during my travels, to online lessons with Japanese students. These experiences gave me a deep appreciation for how children learn best when they feel supported, encouraged, and engaged.
I look forward to bringing my creativity, enthusiasm, and dedication into the classroom. Most importantly, I am excited to get to know your children, celebrate their individuality, and help them thrive this year.
Teacher: Ms. Paulina
I was born and raised in Warsaw and I joined our Preschool team at the beginning of 2017. However, this year will be my seventh year as a co-teacher in Seniors Advanced groups, where I’m taking a role of a Polish teacher, as well.
I graduated from Maria Grzegorzewska Academy of Special Education in Warsaw with a Master’s degree in Early Years Education and a Bachelor’s degree in Special Educational Needs, specialization: Pedagogy of Blindness and Visual Impairments and Pedagogy of Creativity. I also took part in additional lectures such as Society, Social Inequality and Social Change, and Child Protection. I am a trained camp counsellor, as well. During my studies, I had an opportunity to work with children in many different schools and institutions, from kindergartens to junior high schools, also in special needs schools.
I have completed the IB workshop: Making the PYP Happen in the Early Years.
Recently I have completed a workshop: Helping Children with Learning Disabilities.
I’m very excited about this school year and more than ready to help our little heroes make discoveries and let their creativity thrive!
Teacher: Ms. Kate
I am a happy Team member of CSW since 2015. I started my educational journey as an assistant for all Preschoolers. I have lived in Warsaw since I was six years old, and my nationality is Ukrainian.
I graduated from the Warsaw University with pedagogical qualifications. Being a driven educator, I decided to study at the Academy of Special Education in Warsaw, where I carefully studied child’s behaviour and psychology. I achieved a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education.
I completed the IB workshop Approaches to Learning and also obtained an international TEFL course (Teaching English as a Foreign Language).
This preschool year, I will be the Seniors’ Polish Teacher and a co-teacher with Ms. Kari, whom I had a pleasure to work with at CSW in the past.
I am also Juniors, Seniors, and Seniors Advanced Chess teacher. It will be my greatest pleasure to help develop your children’s logical skills and co-lead them to a wonderful holistic education experience.
Teacher: Ms. Małgosia
I was born and raised in Warsaw. In 2021, I graduated from the University of Warsaw with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Education and Teaching English to Young Learners, followed by a Master’s Degree in Teaching English to Young Learners with a focus on intercultural learning environments. During my studies, I gained experience as a private tutor, completed teaching practice in both public and private schools, and participated in the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program in Slovenia, where I explored PYP-based early education.
I joined The Canadian Preschool of Warsaw in November 2023 as an assistant, and last year I became Juniors’ co-teacher and Common Room supervisor. This year, I will continue as Juniors’ co-teacher, supervise the Common Room, and take on the new role of Coding teacher.
Teacher: Ms. Paulina
I hold a degree in Pedagogy with a specialization in Early Childhood and Preschool Education from the Higher School of Social and Economic Studies. My professional background includes working in an integrative preschool with a strong focus on English language immersion, where I gained extensive experience in supporting children with diverse developmental needs. I am committed to creating an inclusive classroom environment built on mutual respect, cooperation, and the individual growth of each student. Working with children is my true passion, and I find great joy in observing their natural curiosity and creativity as they explore the world around them.
Teacher: Ms. Mariana
I was born in Ukraine, where I received my pedagogical education with a specialization in teaching English. I also earned a Master’s degree in International Economics and after graduating, I had practice in teaching at school, also working as a private tutor, and caring for young children.
After moving to Poland, I decided to continue this path and was delighted to join the team at the Canadian School in Warsaw last year, where I am currently working as a Teaching Assistant. To further develop my skills in working with children, I am also interested in child psychology and attend seminars and webinars on topics related to children’s development.
I am grateful for the opportunity to support your child during each step of their day at preschool, and I am honored to be a part of your children’s educational journey.
Teacher: Ms. Natasha
My name is Natasha and I am originally from Zimbabwe. I have had the pleasure of living in Warsaw for the past three years.
I recently graduated from Vistula University, where I developed a strong foundation in education, and I am currently completing my TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification to further enhance my teaching skills. My journey as an educator began almost two years ago when I first started working at The Canadian Preschool of Warsaw part-time, while studying. This experience deepened my love for working with children and inspired me to pursue a career in early childhood education.
This year, I will be an assistant to the Smilies group.
Teacher: Ms. Angie
My name is Ms. Angie, and I am delighted to be re-joining the Juniors classroom this year as an Assistant Teacher. I bring two years of experience working with Juniors, along with certifications in the Callan Method for English Teaching and Callan for Business, which have strengthened my skills in communication and learning strategies. Originally from Zimbabwe, I have been living in Poland for almost five years.
I am very excited to get to know my students and their families, and I look forward to a joyful and productive school year together!
SPECIALIST TEACHERS
PSPE – Mr. Kris
My name is Krzysztof and I graduated from Academy of Physical Education and Sports in Gdańsk with a Master’s degree.
I used to play for Polonia Bydgoszcz and Brda Bydgoszcz (Junior football teams).
I have been a Physical Education teacher at The Canadian School of Warsaw and The Canadian Preschool of Warsaw since 2015. I have completed a pediatric first aid training, I am also a Lacrosse instructor and skiing instructor.
French – Ms. Margot
My name is Margot and I am from Fribourg, a picturesque town in Switzerland.
I am a graduate of the University of Warsaw, Center for Foreign Language Teacher Training and European Education.
I have accumulated considerable experience in teaching French to children: I taught at the Franco-Polish Society and, as a former lead teacher at the public school, I was responsible for the education of over a hundred children at all levels.
I create projects to promote French language and culture to stimulate the children’s creativity. As a former French teacher at the Canadian School in Warsaw, where I worked since 2011, I followed IB teacher trainings like Action in the PYP, Concept-Based Learning and Assessment in the PYP, and also the IB Certificate in Teaching and Learning which provided me with a rich learning experience, continuous professional development, and the flexibility to follow the learning model that best suits my own career path.
As a teacher, I am very communicative, and I am able to ensure that my lessons are entirely in keeping with my students’ linguistics abilities. French language is learned through culture and creativity, each lesson has a goal to achieve so that students learn naturally and acquire knowledge quickly while having fun, being curious and seeing their progress. I am therefore confident that I will be able to effectively encourage your child to learn a language, as well as provide a suitable context, in which he or she can discover the value of such an endeavor.
Music – Mr. Tommy
I am a professional trombonist, arranger, session musician, and qualified music teacher with pedagogical training. I graduated from the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw and the Academy of Music in Katowice, where I specialized in jazz and popular music in the trombone class.
Throughout my career, I have performed with renowned ensembles and artists including Jazz Band Młynarski-Masecki, Rey Ceballo & Tripulación Cubana, Dagadana, Andrzej Smolik, Mrozu, and Ray Wilson (Genesis). For many years, I have also been associated with the Dramatic Theatre in Warsaw.
I have participated in numerous recordings of classical, contemporary, pop, and jazz music, as well as television and festival productions. I bring my stage and studio experience into the classroom, sharing my passion for music with students in an engaging and inspiring way.
PRESCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST
PRESCHOOL SPEECH THERAPIST
Ms. Grażyna
My name is Grażyna and I am a speech therapist here in The Canadian Preschool of Warsaw. I am a member of the staff since 2015. I graduated from the University of Warsaw.
For the past 10 years I have worked in several schools, preschools and clinics, where I’ve aquired many valuable skills.
Besides speech therapy I also run additional classes with children with various learning difficulties, as well as teaching swimming to babies and older children.
I constantly develop my skills and knowledge by taking part in different courses.
NURSE
Anna Wysocka
My name is Anna Wysocka and I am the school nurse. I have worked at The Canadian School of Warsaw since 2005 in both preschool and elementary school.
I have a Master’s degree in Nursing from the Medical University of Warsaw and also a Master’s degree in Pedagogy from the University of Humanities and Economics in Łódź.
I have also completed postgraduate studies in Psycho-Dietetics at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities in Warsaw.