ISR at the Sunflower Festival in Meerbusch
ISR at the Sunflower Festival in Meerbusch
Sunday, September 29th
Hundreds of yellow sunflowers, joyful visitors, and an exuberant atmosphere – this year’s Sunflower Festival in Meerbusch was once again a resounding success!
Our booth was represented by enthusiastic staff members from all three of our branches—Neuss, Düsseldorf, and Meerbusch—who warmly welcomed families. Our dedicated SLC students managed the children’s program. They offered face painting, crafting of small sunflower pots and demonstrating how we utilize virtual reality headsets in ISR classrooms to the curious young visitors. Our in-house music school, Musicbox Oxana, provided entertainment with excellent music performances, bringing much joy to the visitors.
A major highlight of the event was the performance by our talented ISR Band. The children took the stage in front of several hundred guests, who cheered enthusiastically. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Hannan, Brent, and Gian for their incredible representation of ISR! Equally, we are deeply grateful to Oxana and her Musicbox Oxana team for supporting and preparing the children for this highly commendable performance, as well as to Daniel, who skillfully accompanied our ISR students on the drums.
The event not only showcased our students’ talents but also strengthened community bonds. Visitors had the opportunity to learn about our innovative educational approaches, including how we integrate technology into learning. The event exemplified ISR’s commitment to holistic education, blending academic excellence with great musical talents and community engagement. We are already looking forward to celebrating next year’s Sonnenblumenfest!
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Lisa
Spotlight On Our Student Lisa
ISR Student Spotlight: Lisa
This week, we are delighted to spotlight our exceptional third-grader, Lisa. Since joining ISR in 2021, Lisa has consistently impressed her teachers with her confident demeanor, positive attitude, and dedication to her schoolwork.
Lisa was nominated for the ISR Student Spotlight by her teacher, Ms. Duenas, who praises her as a remarkable role model both in and out of the classroom. Ms. Duenas notes, “Lisa participates actively in class and expresses herself clearly and confidently. She is always eager to learn and stays focused on her tasks. Her kindness towards others and exemplary behavior makes her a joy to teach. She is respectful and always wears a smile.”
Lisa’s second-grade teacher, Ms. Albanese, echoes this sentiment: “Lisa is a dedicated student and a sweet, caring person. She works hard and has a genuine love for learning. Her brilliance shines through in her creative problem-solving and determination. I enjoyed reading her incredible stories and texts, filled with special details and original ideas. She relishes challenges and has a real passion for math and solving complex questions. Additionally, Lisa is very artistic, taking great care with her drawings and paying attention to detail.”
“Above all, Lisa is incredibly caring and humble. She is always ready to help others and is friendly and kind to everyone around her. Her presence exudes calmness and happiness, making it a joy to spend time with her”
Ms. Kilian, Lisa’s first-grade teacher, adds: “Lisa was a kind and helpful child who always came to school with a smile. She was a dedicated learner with an admirable work ethic, making her a true role model in the classroom. Teaching her was a pleasure. She loved solving math problems and was always willing to help others.”
Our Elementary School management team also holds Lisa in high regard. Ms. Ghica, Head of Grades 2 and 3, highlights Lisa’s exceptional qualities: “Lisa consistently demonstrates creativity and innovation in problem-solving. Her unique perspective allows her to tackle challenges thoughtfully and impressively. Her dedication combined with critical thinking skills makes her a standout student.”
Ms. Morris, Head of Grades 4 and 5, adds: “Lisa is a shining star both in and out of the classroom. She contributes insightful perspectives during group discussions and treats her peers with kindness and respect. She embodies our motto, ‘it’s cool to be good!’”
Lisa’s music teacher, Ms. Ewing, remarks: “Lisa is hardworking, kind, and smart—a fantastic role model who respects everyone in class.”
Finally, her sports teacher, Mr. Hoste, shares: “Teaching Lisa in PE has been a pleasure since last year. She is motivated, polite, takes initiative, shows great sportsmanship, and is a real team player!”
We are very proud to spotlight Lisa, one of ISR’s many outstanding students!
The ISR Student Spotlight Project aims to highlight one of our students from the ISR-Community every Friday, who embodies our guiding principle “We Enable Great Minds and Strong Characters” by consistently surpassing themselves. Whether through outstanding academic achievements, exceptional dedication, or remarkable character traits – we take pride in having already showcased hundreds of students – and there is more to look forward to every week!
Our Student Spotlights
Internationale Ausstellung an der ISR International School Neuss
Internationale Ausstellung an der ISR International School Neuss beeindruckt mit 40 renommierten Künstlerinnen und Künstlern aus China bei Vernissage mit Live-Performances
Die zeitgenössischen Kunstwerke reichen von chinesischer Kalligraphie und Malerei über Skulpturen und Keramik aus dem Land der Mitte bis hin zu Zisha-Teekannen / Ursula Platen lobt als Neusser Dezernentin für Schule, Bildung und Kultur als Basis für eine globale Zusammenarbeit / Der Chinesische Generalkonsul Chunguo Du betont die völkerverbindende Wirkung von Kunst / Besonderes Angebot für Kunstinteressierte in der Region sowie ein Stück kultureller Heimat für die mehr als 100 chinesischen Familien an der ISR
40 renommierte chinesische Künstlerinnen und Künstler präsentieren an der ISR International School on the Rhine in Neuss eine vielfältige Auswahl an Kunststilen aus dem Reich der Mitte. Die Ausstellung zeitgenössischer Kunst wurde am Mittwoch mit einer umfangreichen Vernissage eröffnet. Gezeigt wurden Werke, die von traditioneller chinesischer Kalligraphie und Malerei über Skulpturen und Keramik bis hin zu Zisha-Teekannen aus der Region Yixing reichen. Zu den bekanntesten Teilnehmenden der ISR-Ausstellung gehören Ning Qinzhen, einer der international bekanntesten Keramikkünstler Chinas und der preisgekrönte Öl-Maler Wei Guoyin.
Rund 20, und damit die Hälfte dieser Künstlerinnen und Künstler, waren extra aus China für die Vernissage angereist. Im Rahmen der Veranstaltung schufen einige Künstlerinnen und Künstler in einer Live-Performance ganz neue Werke. Zudem überreichten sieben der Kunstschaffenden der ISR feierlich ihre Kunstwerke als Geschenk, um an dieses besondere Ereignis zu erinnern.
Die in Neuss vertretenen Künstlerinnen und Künstler präsentierten ihre Werke bereits auf der ganzen Welt. In Europa beispielsweise gab es bisher etwa die Ausstellungen in Florenz, Mailand, Amsterdam, Bratislava, Kiew oder Brüssel. „Dass sich in diese Auflistung namhafter Kunst-Städte auch der Ausstellungsort Neuss einreihen kann und wir Interessierten aus der Region einen ganz besonderen Genuss ermöglichen, freut uns sehr. Denn in Deutschland war diese Ausstellung ausschließlich in Neuss zu sehen“, betont Peter Soliman, Geschäftsführender Gesellschafter der ISR: „Möglich wurde das durch unsere intensive Kooperation mit dem chinesischen Generalkonsulat sowie der Deutsch-Chinesischen Gesellschaft für Bildung und Kultur NRW e.V. sowie durch den großen Anteil von über 100 chinesischen Familien an der ISR und ihren Standorten Neuss, Düsseldorf und Meerbusch.“
Für das Chinesische Generalkonsulat in Düsseldorf ist eine solche Ausstellung extrem wichtig für das gegenseitige Verständnis: „Mit diesen Kunstwerken wird der Betrachter oder die Betrachterin noch mehr verstehen, was eine andere Kultur bewegt und was für die Menschen wichtig ist“, betont Generalkonsul Chunguo Du: „Gerade die Vielfalt und Unterschiedlichkeit der Kunstwerke ermöglicht bei dieser Ausstellung einen umfassenden Einblick.“
Ursula Platen, Dezernentin für Schule, Bildung und Kultur der Stadt Neuss, sieht vielfältige Vorteile im interkulturellen Dialog: „Solche Veranstaltungen wie hier an der ISR sind eine wichtige Basis, wenn man eine globale, offene, und friedliche Gemeinschaft schaffen möchte.“ Durch aktuelle politische Diskussionen dürfe man dieses große Ziel nicht aus dem Auge verlieren. „Vor allem, wenn man sich zu den großen Herausforderungen wie dem Klimawandel und Menschenrechten über Landesgrenzen hinweg verständigen will, sind solche Veranstaltungen wie hier in Neuss besonders wichtig“, so Platen.
Yuan Ching Hu, Vorsitzender der gemeinnützigen Deutsch-Chinesischen Gesellschaft für Bildung und Kultur NRW e.V., betont: „Wir unterstützen diese Ausstellung, weil wir über Kultur und Bildung die Deutsch-Chinesische Zusammenarbeit auf allen Ebenen verbessern und vertiefen möchten. Wir wollen auch losgelöst von wirtschaftlichen Beziehungen vernetzen, fördern und den Austausch voranbringen“. Rund 60.000 Chinesinnen und Chinesen, schätzt Hu, leben derzeit in NRW; die größte Community in Düsseldorf/Neuss und dem Ruhrgebiet: „Es sind mittlerweile viele deutsche Bürgerinnen und Bürger mit chinesischen Wurzeln, zweiter, dritter oder gar vierter Generation hier in der Region, denen die Traditionen ihrer Vorfahren nicht verloren gehen sollen“, erläutert Hu: „Da kann eine solche Ausstellung einen wichtigen Beitrag leisten“.
Für Peter Soliman, Geschäftsführender Gesellschafter der ISR, ist die Ausstellung deshalb nicht nur ein tolles Angebot für alle Kunst-Interessierten aus der Region, sondern auch ein Stück kultureller Heimat für die mehr als 100 chinesischen Familien an der Schule. „Wir haben seit vielen Jahren eine große chinesische Community an der ISR, auf die wir sehr stolz sind. So können wir mit solchen Ausstellungen und unserer vielfältigen Schulgemeinschaft einen erheblichen Beitrag zum gegenseitigen Verständnis leisten, weit über den Schulalltag hinaus. Denn alle der über 1.200 Familien aus den Standorten in Neuss, Düsseldorf, und Meerbusch sind herzlich zu der Vernissage eingeladen worden und erleben die Kunst heute und auch in den kommenden Tagen hautnah.“
Neben der großen chinesischen Community sind noch 59 weitere Nationen unter den ISR-Familien vertreten.
Disclaimer
Die ISR International School on the Rhine GmbH mit den drei Standorten in Neuss, Düsseldorf und Meerbusch ist eine privat geführte internationale Ganztagsschule. Mehr als 1.000 Schülerinnen und Schüler aus der Region und aus aktuell 60 Ländern aus aller Welt bereiten sich gemeinsam auf international anerkannte Schulabschlüsse vor. Akademische Exzellenz und Charakterbildung stehen im Zentrum der Ausbildung und qualifizieren für ein Studium an führenden Universitäten in Deutschland und weltweilt. Für jüngere Kinder bietet die ISR einen internationalen Kindergarten auf dem ISR-Campus in Neuss, in Düsseldorf-Niederkassel sowie eine deutschsprachige Dependance in Meerbusch-Büderich. Anfragen zu Kindergarten, Grundschule und weiterführender Schule werden ganzjährig entgegengenommen: admissions@isr-school.de.
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Paul
Spotlight On Our Student Paul
ISR Student Spotlight: Paul
This week, we are proud to spotlight our eighth-grader, Paul.
Since joining ISR in 2016, Paul has consistently demonstrated kindness, leadership, and dedication both inside and outside the classroom. He excels academically and is always willing to support his classmates.
Paul was nominated for the ISR Student Spotlight by his teacher, Ms. Chroni, who praises his exceptional presentation skills and natural talent for remaining composed and confident. She notes, “His ability to explain complex ideas clearly and effectively is impressive, and he has the potential to become a leader in any field he chooses to pursue in the future.”
Ms. Megal, another of Paul’s teachers, describes him as “a fantastic student—energetic, with his own opinions, proactive, and well-informed on many topics. If he doesn’t know something, he will undoubtedly seek out information about it, making him a future leader.”
Paul’s sixth-grade teacher, Ms. Freise, fondly recalls him as a remarkable young man who embodies what it means to be a well-rounded individual. She highlights his strong work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to help others: “Whether excelling academically, contributing to group projects, or offering a helping hand to classmates, Paul consistently demonstrates kindness and leadership. Keep up the great work, Paul!”
We are very proud to spotlight Paul, one of ISR’s many outstanding students!
The ISR Student Spotlight Project aims to highlight one of our students from the ISR-Community every Friday, who embodies our guiding principle “We Enable Great Minds and Strong Characters” by consistently surpassing themselves. Whether through outstanding academic achievements, exceptional dedication, or remarkable character traits – we take pride in having already showcased hundreds of students – and there is more to look forward to every week!
Our Student Spotlights
Chinese-Europe Fine Arts Dialogue Vernissage
China-Europe Fine Arts Dialogue Vernissage
Wednesday, September 18th
Last night, we had the great honor of welcoming a distinguished delegation of artists from China to ISR. Forty renowned artists made the journey from China to exhibit their artworks as part of a vernissage at our school. This exceptional event was organized by the Chinese Consulate General in Düsseldorf and the German-Chinese Society for Education and Culture NRW e.V.
The exhibition offered fascinating insights into the diversity of Chinese art. From traditional calligraphy and painting to impressive sculptures and ceramics, and even exquisite Zisha teapots from the Yixing region, there was something to captivate every art enthusiast. Among the most prominent participants were Ning Qinzhen, an internationally acclaimed ceramic artist, and Wei Guoyin, an award-winning oil painter, whose works mesmerized the guests.
A special highlight of the vernissage was the live performance by several artists who created new works during the event. These unique creations were presented as gifts to the guests at the end of the evening. Additionally, seven artists ceremoniously gifted their artworks to ISR as a lasting memento of this memorable occasion.
Consul General Du opened the vernissage with inspiring words, emphasizing the event’s significance for cultural exchange between Germany and China. Ursula Platen, Deputy Mayor of Neuss for Youth, Education, and Culture, echoed the Consul’s sentiments, praising the extraordinary exhibition and the artists’ commitment. Mr. Hu, Chairman of the German-Chinese Society for Education and Culture NRW e.V., also expressed his gratitude and highlighted the importance of such events. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all involved: the participating families, the Consulate General, the German-Chinese Society for Education and Culture NRW e.V., and of course, the artists who made this special evening possible. Special appreciation goes to our dedicated SLC students who served canapés and beverages to our guests, ensuring a pleasant atmosphere throughout the event.
Thank you also to our ISR our students, Maxim and Selina, who performed inspiring musical pieces by Chinese composers.
Overall, it was a thoroughly successful evening that will undoubtedly remain a cherished memory for all participants for years to come. The exhibition will remain on display at ISR until Friday evening, and external visitors are warmly welcome to attend.
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Xixi
Spotlight On Our Student Xixi
This week, we are proud to spotlight our sixth-grader, Xixi.
Xixi joined ISR’s Elementary School last school year and quickly impressed his teachers with his intelligence and exceptional math skills. He is not only academically gifted but also friendly and exemplifies excellent behavior in class.
Xixi was nominated for the ISR Student Spotlight by his homeroom teacher, Ms. Palmieri. She praises him, saying, “Xixi is a remarkably smart and creative student who consistently brings exciting and new knowledge to class discussions. We learn new fun facts from him every day! His friendly demeanor creates a positive atmosphere, and his smile lights up the room when he walks in. Xixi’s incredible enthusiasm for learning enriches our lessons and inspires everyone around him. He is kind, polite, and respectful to both his peers and teachers. I am so lucky to have Xixi as a student in 6B!”
Xixi’s fifth-grade homeroom teacher, Mr. Bernard, adds, “Xixi is an incredibly intelligent and friendly student. It was a pleasure to have him in our class. Even though he has moved on to the 6th grade, he still takes the time to say hello!”
Xixi also has a passion for languages and has impressed his French teacher, Ms. Stephan. She remarks, “Xixi is a smart, quiet, and kind boy who enjoys working and participating in class activities. His beautiful smile is always present. He has a good grasp of French and likes to share his knowledge with the class.”
In addition to his linguistic talents, Xixi excels in technology. His Computing teacher, Mr. Grubelic, notes, “Xixi is very adept at writing code and translating his ideas onto the computer screen. In Grade 5, Xixi, along with other Code Club participants, wrote a code representing Earth’s flora and fauna in Python, which astronauts were able to run on the International Space Station as part of the Astro Pi Mission Zero challenge! I can always rely on Xixi to produce astounding work and innovation in Computing. Keep up the great work, Xixi!”
We are very proud to spotlight Xixi, one of ISR’s many outstanding students!
The ISR Student Spotlight Project aims to highlight one of our students from the ISR-Community every Friday, who embodies our guiding principle “We Enable Great Minds and Strong Characters” by consistently surpassing themselves. Whether through outstanding academic achievements, exceptional dedication, or remarkable character traits – we take pride in having already showcased hundreds of students – and there is more to look forward to every week!
Our Student Spotlights
ISR Family Fun & Sports Day
ISR Family Fun & Sports Day 2024
Saturday, September 7th
Last Saturday, we proudly hosted the ISR Family Fun & Sports Day under bright sunshine, welcoming hundreds of guests, including families from our Neuss, Düsseldorf, and Meerbusch branches, along with faculty and staff.
Our dedicated Student Leadership Council (SLC), Sports Department, and staff worked tirelessly to organize a day filled with sports, games, and enjoyment.
Students participated in seven sports stations, where they showcased their athletic abilities and collected stamps in their FFSD passports for a chance to win exciting raffle prizes. Additionally, there was a thrilling stuntman track, a bouncy castle in the kindergarten area, and friendly matches in Basketball, Beach Volleyball, and Soccer, all highlighting the incredible team spirit that defines ISR.
Delicious food was provided by our exceptional Broich Catering Team, complemented by an ice pop stand managed by our SLC students, a coffee bike, and an ice cream truck.
Throughout the venue, various stands represented our dedicated sports partners, including HTC, Capoeira, NTC Stadtwald, and Rochusclub. Children enjoyed face painting and had the opportunity to make music with our in-house music school, Musicbox Oxana.
This year’s ISR Family Fun & Sports Day was a resounding success, and we are proud to start the new academic year with such an exciting event for our ISR Family and interested families who joined us on campus.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all student helpers, partners, teachers, and staff for making this day extraordinary! In addition, we sincerely thank our dedicated ISR Parent Network, which was represented by many families on that day to welcome new and existing families to our Campus!
We eagerly anticipate our next Community Events at ISR!
A special thank you to our talented photographer, Melanie Osterried.
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Emma
Spotlight On Our Student Emma
This week, we are proud to spotlight our third-grader, Emma.
Emma joined ISR this past August and has quickly impressed her teachers with her positive attitude and determination to learn and grow as a student. She is focused and consistently works hard to improve herself.
Emma was nominated for the ISR Student Spotlight by her Homeroom teacher, Ms. Springstubbe. She says, “Emma is just an amazing student, who works hard, tries her best, shows resilience, patience and integrity when it comes to learning new things. On top of that, she is a wonderful friend, she is kind, caring, incredibly polite and responsible. We love having her in our class!”
Emma’s English teacher, Ms. Freise, has high praise for her student as well: “In the heart of every classroom, there is always a student who exemplifies the true essence of hard work, determination, and grit. That student is Emma! From the very first day, Emma stood out for her unwavering commitment to learning and growth. She faced challenges that would have caused many others to falter, yet Emma demonstrated that success isn’t always about how quickly you reach your goals, but about the strength you show on the journey. She has a great attitude. In the face of frustration, she doesn’t complain or make excuses. Instead, she asks questions, seeks help when needed, and puts in the extra hours to ensure understanding and improvement. This perseverance is a testament to her character, one who values hard work and understands that growth often comes from the most challenging experiences. She has also been a shining example of kindness and support to her peers.”
Ms. Ghica, the Academic Head of Grade 3 adds, “Shoutout to Emma, an enthusiastic superstar in grade 3! Keep shining with your curiosity, creativity, and love for learning. You’re doing amazing things, and the best is yet to come! Keep up the fantastic work, Emma!”
We are very proud to spotlight Emma, one of ISR’s many outstanding students!
The ISR Student Spotlight Project aims to highlight one of our students from the ISR-Community every Friday, who embodies our guiding principle “We Enable Great Minds and Strong Characters” by consistently surpassing themselves. Whether through outstanding academic achievements, exceptional dedication, or remarkable character traits – we take pride in having already showcased hundreds of students – and there is more to look forward to every week!
Our Student Spotlights
Kö-Meile 2024 – Outstanding Participation by Our ISR Students
Kö-Meile 2024 – Outstanding Participation by Our ISR Students
Sunday, September 1st
This past Sunday, ISR was thrilled to participate in the annual Kö Meile running event on the renowned Düsseldorf Königsallee. Over 70 ISR students, along with several staff members, joined in the excitement!
The day kicked off with our Kindergarten Children completing a 300-meter run along the Kö, followed by our Elementary School Students running a half mile, and our Secondary School Students tackling a full mile. Everyone finished strong and received a special medal to commemorate their achievements – true to our motto: It’s cool to be good!
A big thank you goes to our sports teacher, Mr. Nous, for his invaluable assistance in organizing the event and supporting our students. We also extend our gratitude to the members of ISR’s Student Leadership Council (SLC), who attended the event to support our families and cheer on their fellow students. Special thanks to our SLC Coordinator, Ms. Bennet, for organizing the SLC student volunteers!
We are incredibly proud of everyone who came together for this event and represented ISR in such a fantastic manner. We hope everyone had fun and went home feeling proud of their accomplishments!
