About Bright Quest Learning
Pioneering the future of personalized education through innovative AI-driven learning experiences that unlock every child's unique potential.
Our Mission
To help every child unlock their unique potential through personalized, adaptive learning powered by natural curiosity, compassion, and cutting-edge technology.
Our Story
Born from the values and vision of the Discovery School, Bright Quest Learning brings individualized education to children everywhere. We believe that every child deserves an education tailored to their needs, interests, and talents.
Our Core Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Innovation
Continuously pushing the boundaries of what's possible in education technology.
Child-Centric
Every decision we make puts the child's learning experience and well-being first.
Excellence
Committed to the highest standards in educational content and platform reliability.
Collaboration
Working closely with educators, families, and communities to create better outcomes.
Equity
Ensuring all children have access to high-quality, personalized learning opportunities.
Impact
Measuring success by the positive impact we create in children's lives and learning outcomes.
Leadership
Meet the visionary behind Bright Quest Learning
Jackie Maes
Co-Founder and CEO
Jackie's passion for education reform began in 2009 when her children started school. She quickly realized their need for educational intervention and obtained her Master's degree in Gifted Education.
She was a High School Science teacher for 7 years before becoming Chief Learning Officer of the Discovery Center, a children's museum and science center in downtown Springfield, MO. Jackie is the co-founder of Discovery School at the Center, the 2021 Yass Prize winner from the Center for Education Reform and Forbes.
In 2023 Missouri Governor Mike Parson declared April 4 as Innovation in Education Day in recognition of her team's commitment to academic excellence. She is part of the VELA founder network, the nation's leading community of entrepreneurs providing alternatives to conventional schooling.
Jackie serves on the Institutional Review Board of Missouri State University. Her most coveted role is that of mother to a large family of talented young adults who have benefited from academic acceleration and individualized instruction. Her grandchildren are her joy and have further ignited her mission to revolutionize education for all children.
Our Team
Dr. Earl B. Maes
Co-Founder and CEO
Earl B. Maes is a serial entrepreneur, practicing radiologist, and lifelong learner with a deep passion for both medicine and innovation. His journey began at the University of Colorado, with a bachelors of science, then to the University of Iowa where he earned his medical degree, followed by a residency and fellowship at the University of Iowa Hospitals and clinics that laid the foundation for his career in diagnostic imaging.
Before radiology, Dr. Maes spent the first three years of his medical career as an emergency room physician, where he gained invaluable experience treating patients in high-pressure, fast-paced settings. That chapter shaped his clinical instincts and reinforced the importance of accuracy and efficiency in medical decision-making—qualities that continue to guide his work today.
His formal training includes an internship in family medicine, a radiology residency, and an advanced musculoskeletal (MSK) radiology fellowship, equipping him with a broad and nuanced understanding of both general and specialized imaging.
In addition to his medical career, Dr. Maes has always been drawn to building, creating, and solving problems—leading him into entrepreneurship. Through BrightQuest Learning, he aims to combine his medical expertise with his entrepreneurial mindset to empower others through knowledge, strategy, and practical tools.
Whether you're here to learn, grow, or collaborate, he is excited to be part of your journey.
Hayden Smith
Senior Developer
Hayden Smith is a GenAI engineer and full-stack software developer.
As Senior Developer of BrightQuest Learning, Hayden oversees the platform's design and development.
With 8 years of experience in the industry, Hayden has had the opportunity to work on business problems spanning multiple sectors, although the bulk of his research/work has been in AI-assisted knowledge management and multi-agent systems.
Apart from work, Hayden enjoys playing the saxophone and trumpet.
Rachel Lambert
Marketing Director
Rachel Lambert brings over a decade of experience in strategic communications, brand development, and community engagement to her role at Bright Quest Learning. With a background that spans nonprofits, education, and the arts, she is passionate about using storytelling and design to foster meaningful connections.
As Marketing Director at Bright Quest Learning, Rachel leads branding, outreach, and engagement efforts that reflect the organization's mission and values. She also serves as Marketing Director for other Maes family companies, including MF Moo Ranch, Health Guardian Imaging Center, and the Health Hub Clinic.
Prior to joining Bright Quest Learning, Rachel served as Director of Marketing and Communications at the Springfield Regional Arts Council, where she elevated the visibility of arts and education initiatives across southwest Missouri. Her career has included leadership roles in design, event production, and content development, always with a focus on purposeful, people-centered communication.
Outside of work, Rachel enjoys reading, attending local arts events, and spending time with her husband, two daughters, and their very charming Bernedoodle puppy.
Ready to Transform Education Together?
Connect with our team to learn more about how Bright Quest Learning can make a difference.
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