Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ella
Spotlight On Our Student Ella
This week, we are proud to spotlight our tenth grader, Ella, who joined ISR in 2014. She has been a member of the ISR Community since joining our kindergarten, and we are excited to feature her this week.
Ms. Horvath, Ella’s Grade 10 homeroom teacher and German teacher, explains what makes Ella so special:
“As Ella’s teacher, I can say that anyone who truly knows her understands that this student is an exceptionally creative person with remarkable language talent.
She possesses an outstanding gift for language and often finds words when others have long run out of ideas. Her writing is vivid, imaginative, and full of original thoughts. With great creativity, she creates stories that touch people, inspire reflection, or simply bring a smile. Her imagination seems to know no limits.
Particularly remarkable is her great empathy. She quickly senses how others are feeling, listens to them attentively, and treats people with warmth and understanding. Her open and innocent nature makes her honest, direct, and charming – she preserves a sense of naturalness that has become rare in today’s often hectic world.
Her talent, her imagination, and her special sensitivity are qualities that matter far beyond the classroom. For exactly these reasons, she deserves recognition and special praise.”
Ella’s art teacher, Ms. Henebry, agrees:
“Ella is a creative student whose work often reveals a surprisingly thought-provoking, intelligent, and subtly humorous perspective. She approaches ideas with originality, wit, and a strong sense of narrative, exploring themes from unexpected angles in thoughtful and engaging ways.
What stands out just as much as the artwork itself is the depth of thinking behind it. Her initial idea development and artist statements demonstrate maturity and a high level of reflection. Ella is willing to take creative risks and pursue unusual ideas with confidence, making her work memorable.”
Ms. Hautz, Ella’s Spanish teacher, explains:
“Ella is a very pleasant, respectful, creative, and kind student. She appreciates and lights up when you recognize her potential. She has a great imagination and writes very entertaining short stories.
Finally, Ms. Freise, Ella’s former homeroom teacher in grade 6, remarks:
“Ella is a student who brings warmth and positivity wherever she goes. Known for her sweet nature and friendly attitude, she has a natural ability to make those around her feel comfortable and supported. Ella is also a big helper, always ready to lend a hand with enthusiasm and a smile, and she does so in a way that makes helping others genuinely enjoyable.
Having known Ella since her time in my homeroom in Grade 6, it has been wonderful to watch her grow while maintaining the same kindness and consideration. She is entertaining in the best sense – bringing energy and joy to everyday moments – while remaining thoughtful and respectful toward both peers and adults.”
We are proud to spotlight Ella as 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
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Shogo
Spotlight On Our Student Shogo
This week, we are proud to spotlight our sixth-grader, Shogo, who joined ISR in 2025. He was nominated for the Spotlight by Ms. Schmidt, the Academic Head of Grades 5 and 6. She explains:
“Shogo is a wonderful, well-mannered, and diligent Grade 6 student who consistently demonstrates a positive attitude toward learning and towards those around him. In the short time he has been here, he has shown remarkable growth, both academically and socially, quickly adapting and flourishing in his new environment. His respectful nature and willingness to engage make him a valued member of the classroom community. He approaches his work with care and determination, always striving to do his best and improve. Beyond his own achievements, he contributes meaningfully to group activities, supporting his peers and helping to create a collaborative and inclusive atmosphere. His thoughtful participation and strong work ethic do not go unnoticed. He adds genuine value to the class through his kindness, perseverance, and commitment. His efforts are truly appreciated, and it is a pleasure to see his continued progress and confidence develop each day.”
Shogo’s Grade 6 homeroom teacher, Mr. Elsey agrees, saying:
“Shogo is a wonderful student to have in the classroom. He is insightful and a well-liked and respected member of 6B. He has worked so hard this academic year, and his achievements are reflected in the wonderful results he is producing. Shogo is a keen sports player and loves to join in with team sports. I am really proud of everything Shogo has achieved this year. He is a joy to have in the classroom.”
Ms. Freise, Shogo’s English teacher, adds:
“Shogo is quietly making a name for himself through steady progress and hard work in English. Over the course of the school year, Shogo has shown impressive growth, transforming challenges into strengths through determination and consistent effort.
Known for his strong work ethic and positive attitude, he approaches each task with focus and perseverance. His improving language skills and growing confidence are clear signs of how far he has come, and his progress serves as a reminder that dedication and resilience truly pay off.”
Ms. Hautz, Shogo’s Spanish teacher, says:
“I have the pleasure of teaching Spanish to Shogo. He is a kind, empathic, responsible, and inquisitive boy. His questions are well though out. Shojo is quiet and yet has a good rapport with all his classmates. He works motivated and enjoys doing pair work. He works hard and enjoys learning Spanish.”
We are proud to spotlight Shogo as 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
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Gen
Spotlight On Our Student Gen
This week, we are proud to spotlight our fifth-grader, Gen, who joined ISR in 2025. His teachers highlight not only his strong academic curiosity, but also his positive attitude and engaging personality, which make him a valued member of the classroom.
Ms. Freise, Gen’s English teacher, explains:
“Gen is a dedicated and enthusiastic student who is learning English eagerly.
He puts great effort into his learning each day and never gives up, even when challenges arise. Gen has a wonderful sense of humor—he is funny, witty, and occasionally sarcastic in a playful way that brings smiles to those around him.
He is incredibly curious and possesses a wide range of knowledge across many topics, always eager to ask questions and learn more. Gen’s determination, personality, and love of learning make him a joy to have in the classroom.”
Ms. Dönni, Gen’s German teacher, adds:
“Gen is a bright and witty student who always lightens the mood the moment he enters the room. He is eager, hardworking, and never hesitates to ask questions to further understand the topic. His peers enjoy his company greatly, and he certainly embodies ISR’s motto: “It’s cool to be good!” It is a pleasure to teach Gen!”
We are proud to spotlight Gen as 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
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Shriya
Spotlight On Our Student Shriya
This week, we are proud to spotlight our fourth grader, Shriya, who joined ISR in 2022. She was nominated for the Student Spotlight by Mr. Rowan, the Head of ISR Elementary School and Academic Head of Grade 4. He says:
“Shriya has a wonderful sense of humor and a strong work ethic, which makes her a joy to have in class. She approaches her learning with enthusiasm and perseverance, always striving to do her best and supporting those around her.”
Shriya’s Grade 3 homeroom teacher, Ms. Vittin, adds:
“Shriya is a curious and innovative student who has genuine enthusiasm for school and learning. She always leads with her kindness and her heart and was a joy to have in class. Shriya also has a very particular sense of humor, and often makes her peers and teachers laugh. She works hard, and as her teacher from the previous year, I am extremely proud of her progress thus far. Well done Shriya, you deserve it all!”
Ms. Sahin, Shriya’s German teacher, explains:
“Shriya is a delight to teach. She brings creativity, commitment, and a positive, kind presence to the classroom. She approaches challenges with confidence. It is a pleasure to have her in class.”
Shriya’s Grade 2 homeroom teacher, Ms. Hartmann, recalls:
“I remember Shriya well when she was in my class in Grade. Shriya is such a wonderful, sunny, bubbly and creative student. It is a delight to still see her in school and to be a witness of how well she is doing. Shriya is always friendly and helpful; she is constantly smiling and in a mood for a good joke at any time. I miss teaching her but can’t wait to see her achieve everything she wishes for.”
Finally, Ms. Bucher, Shriya’s music teacher, adds:
“Shriya! What a terrific child. She is very funny and has a way with words. But she is also exceptionally kind and thoughtful. She likes a good challenge and always delivers high-quality work in Music class.”
We are proud to spotlight Shriya as 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
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Hugo
Spotlight On Our Student Hugo
This week, we are proud to spotlight our second-grader, Hugo, who joined ISR in 2023. He was warmly nominated for the Student Spotlight by his homeroom teacher, Ms. Metcalfe, who shares:
“Hugo consistently demonstrates our class values of kindness, respect, and always trying his best. He is a responsible and proactive student who shows genuine empathy towards others, making him a trusted and valued member of our class. His quiet confidence and positive attitude set a wonderful example for his peers. As a keen tennis player and footballer, he demonstrates dedication and teamwork in all that he does. The future is bright for Hugo – this is only the beginning!”
Ms. Dönni, Hugo’s German teacher, adds:
“Hugo is a truly kind and gentle student. His calm and reflective nature creates a positive atmosphere in the classroom each day. He approaches his work with care and sincerity. It is a pleasure to have him in class.”
Hugo’s music teacher, Ms. Ewing, explains:
“Hugo is a kind, friendly student with a genuine love for learning. He always has a smile on his face during music lessons and loves to sing! He politely asks for help when needed and is always happy to support his classmates.”
Ms. Ghica, the Academic Head of Grades 2 & 3, notes:
“Hugo is a friendly and thoughtful student who approaches his learning with focus and dedication. He takes school seriously and consistently shows a level of maturity beyond his years. He has a deep curiosity about the world and demonstrates a strong understanding of how things work, often asking insightful questions and making meaningful connections in his learning. We are proud of his positive attitude and the effort he brings to everything he does.”
Ms. Vrem, the Head of ISR Kindergarten Neuss, adds:
“Hugo joined ISR in kindergarten. He was a thoughtful and gentle child. He quickly formed friendships, and it has been wonderful to watch him develop over the past three years.”
Finally, Ms. Johnson, who taught Hugo in Grade 1, recalls fondly:
“Hugo has always been a kind and conscientious student. He takes great pride in his work, enjoys learning, and consistently works hard to achieve his goals! It was a pleasure to teach him – well done, Hugo!”
We are proud to spotlight Hugo as 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
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Helena
Spotlight On Our Student Helena
This week, we are proud to spotlight our twelfth grader, Helena, who joined ISR as a first grader in 2014. Helena is set to graduate this spring, marking the successful culmination of her journey at ISR.
Ms. Ghica, who welcomed Helena to ISR all those years ago, reflects:
“Helena’s journey at ISR is one of those rare stories that quietly reminds you how quickly time passes. I still remember her arriving in Grade 1 – bright-eyed, curious, and already full of personality. Even back then, she had a spark: smart, quick with a joke, and always bringing an energy that filled the classroom.
Over the years, it has been a joy to watch her grow from that lively little student into the confident Grade 12 graduate she is today. Seeing that transformation is one of the most rewarding parts of being a teacher. Helena has always had a wonderful mix of intelligence, humor, and spirit, and those qualities will no doubt carry her far in whatever path she chooses next.
Helena, congratulations on this important milestone. It has been a privilege to have been a small part of your journey from the very beginning. I wish you every success, happiness, and adventure in the road ahead!”
Helena’s Grade 12 homeroom teacher, Mr. O’Brien, adds:
“Helena always has a smile on her face and a polite greeting each morning I meet her in homeroom. Her positive attitude is a reminder to us all to focus on what is important.”
Ms. Poestges, Head of Marketing, who recently traveled with Helena on a school trip to China, shares:
“I had the pleasure of getting to know Helena even better during the ISR trip to China, where she participated alongside other ISR Secondary School students and Alumni. Helena has an incredibly big heart, truly cares about the people around her, and carries herself with excellent manners and kindness. She is polite, thoughtful, and simply a joy to be around. We can be very proud that Helena is part of the ISR Community!”
We are proud to spotlight Helena as 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 Chinese New Year Celebration 2026
Chinese New Year Celebration
Celebrating the Year of the Horse
Saturday, March 7th, 2026
At ISR, celebrating cultural diversity and fostering community are at the heart of all we do – a spirit that shone brilliantly this past Saturday during our 2026 Chinese New Year Celebration. The school was alive with festive energy as students, families, and staff came together to honor the Lunar New Year, savor traditional flavors, and welcome the Year of the Horse.
The festivities began with an engaging stage program that highlighted the richness of Chinese culture. We were honored to welcome a delegation from the Chinese Consulate Düsseldorf, including Deputy Consul General Wu, who kicked off the festivities with a special Chinese New Year greeting. Attendees were then treated to traditional dances and songs, performed with colorful costumes and captivating energy. ISR students also showcased their talents, adding a personal touch that beautifully blended tradition with creativity. A heartfelt thank you goes to the Chinesische Künstlergruppe Nordrhein-Westfalen for supporting this incredible stage program with their professional and captivating performances.
In the cafeteria, guests delighted in a flavorful buffet of Chinese cuisine, thoughtfully prepared by our dedicated Chinese Community. This included delicacies such as Bobo Chicken, Taro Ball & Grass Jelly Soup, Spiced Braised Beef, and Steamed Buns. The celebration continued with hands-on activities that brought traditions to life: students created candy art, practiced calligraphy and traditional ink printing, and explored immersive VR experiences thanks to ISR’s IT department. Musicbox Oxana was also on hand to showcase their offerings and allow guests to try out various instruments.
Our SLC student volunteers sold drinks and popcorn, and our beloved school mascot, Spirit the Horse, made a special appearance – perfectly symbolizing the Year of the Horse and bringing smiles to all attendees.
A special thank you goes to Mrs. Hofmann, our ISR Chinese Community Representative, for organizing this memorable event alongside ISR’s Chinese Community, as well as to all the staff and students whose efforts brought the celebration to life. By honoring these traditions, ISR continues to nurture inclusivity, cultural curiosity, and community pride, strengthening the bonds that unite our international school.
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Francesco
Spotlight On Our Student Francesco
This week, we are proud to spotlight our eighth-grader, Francesco, who joined ISR in 2024 and has quickly become a valued member of our school community. He was nominated for the Student Spotlight by Ms. Przybylski, who shares:
“I am thrilled that the one and only Francesco has been selected for the Student Spotlight! I absolutely enjoy having him in class, talking with him about all kinds of topics in German and listening to his engaging stories about his soccer experiences. He brightens the room as soon as he enters and is a wonderful classmate and friend to his peers. He is actively involved in both academic and social life at ISR and brings such a bright and positive personality to our community. I am proud of Francesco´s achievements and wish him all the best in the future.”
Ms. Chroni, Francesco’s homeroom teacher, explains:
“Francesco is now in his second year at our school, and I am very happy to have him again in my homeroom after teaching him in Grade 7 last year. He is a polite and respectful student who is always ready to help others. His confidence when speaking in front of others continues to grow, and he has plenty of personality, which certainly doesn’t go unnoticed. With his positive attitude and great sense of humour, he brings a bit of Italian sunshine into the classroom – no matter the weather.”
Francesco’s English teacher, Ms. Ciric, adds:
“Francesco is a wonderful student to teach and brings a very positive energy to our lessons. He is always polite and friendly, and he has a great sense of humour that makes lessons enjoyable for everyone. Francesco has a kind and respectful attitude towards others, and he is someone his classmates enjoy being around. I truly enjoy having Francesco in my class and look forward to seeing him continue to grow in confidence while further developing his English skills throughout the year.”
Mr. Nisic, Francesco’s mathematics teacher, shares:
“Francesco is a kind and polite student and brings positive energy to the classroom. He is engaged during math lessons, actively participates in class activities, and easily connects with others through conversation. His friendly and respectful nature makes him a pleasure to have in class.”
In support of this, Mr. Byrne, ISR’s School Director, adds:
“Francesco was one of the first students to introduce himself and welcome me when I arrived at ISR in January. I found it very impressive that a student had the kindness to offer me his best wishes and the confidence to ask me about which English football team I supported!”
Ms. Racheva, Francesco’s P.E. teacher, further explains:
“Francesco is a very friendly, kind, and polite student. I have known him for the past two years, and he always comes to school with a smile on his face. He is helpful and supportive toward his classmates and contributes to a very positive classroom atmosphere. During PE classes, Francesco performs very well and shows great enthusiasm for sports. He is very sporty and particularly enjoys playing football, both at school and outside of school. It is truly a pleasure to teach him. He is a wonderful student and a positive role model for others.”
Finally, Ms. Schultz shares how impressed she is with Francesco, stating:
“I would like to express my appreciation for Francesco. He is a great example of one of our finest students at ISR. His kindness in helping his classmates and those around him, as well as his engagement in learning and his determination to always do his best, are truly impressive.
Francesco is a very polite and respectful student. He always greets others warmly and shows genuine care for the people around him.
In art, he always tries his best and asks thoughtful questions to improve his work. He comes prepared with his materials, arrives on time, and is always ready to learn. He is curious and actively engaged in the learning process.
Francesco is a creative person with unique ideas and fine artworks.
It is always a pleasure to teach and work with him.”
We are proud to spotlight Francesco as 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
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Aika
Spotlight On Our Student Aika
This week, we are proud to spotlight our third-grader, Aika, who joined ISR’s Kindergarten Neuss in 2021. She is now in the third grade and was enthusiastically nominated for the Student Spotlight by the Academic Head of Grades 2 & 3, Ms. Ghica, who shares:
“A special shout-out to Aika, whom I have had the pleasure of knowing since Grade 1. Over the years, she has consistently impressed us with her academic strength, her ability to ask deep and thoughtful questions, and her natural curiosity, which drives her to truly challenge ideas and situations in order to understand what lies beneath the surface. Beyond her intellectual abilities, Aika stands out for her kindness and respect toward both classmates and teachers. She is a wonderful role model, and it is no surprise that her teachers absolutely love her. We are very proud of the young person she has become!”
Ms. Hartmann, Aika’s second grade homeroom teacher, recalls:
“Aika was such a joy to teach in Grade 2. She came to class each day with a bright smile and a positive attitude that lifted everyone around her. She is a kind and helpful student, always ready to support her classmates. Aika is also an excellent reader, and her creativity truly shines through in her beautiful artwork. I miss having her in class and feel so proud of all she has accomplished. I wish her every happiness and success in the future.”
Aika’s current homeroom teacher, Ms. Spring, adds:
“Aika is a really cool student who is not only a kind, supportive, clever, and smart kid but also an incredible learner! She works hard, tries her best, always goes the extra mile, and brings fabulous ideas to important classroom discussions. I am very lucky to be her teacher this year!”
Ms. Schmitz, Aika’s German teacher, explains:
“Aika is a friendly and respectful student. She always tries her best, participates actively in class activities, and has shown continuous progress throughout the year. Her positive attitude brings joy into the classroom. We are incredibly proud of Aika!”
We are proud to spotlight Aika as 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
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Jan
Spotlight On Our Student Jan
This week, we are proud to spotlight our twelfth-grader, Jan, who joined ISR in 2018. He was enthusiastically nominated for the Student Spotlight by Ms. McGowan, who shares:
“I am thrilled that Jan has been chosen for the Student Spotlight – he deserves to be incredibly proud of the significant progress he has made, and the goals he has achieved in English over the last two years. His enthusiasm for learning is infectious, and it is reflected in his consistently thoughtful contributions to class discussions. A question from Jan never fails to make me think, and I am grateful to him for always sharing and pursuing such interesting lines of inquiry. Jan demonstrates this positivity outside of the classroom as well, and I will miss our daily catch-ups outside his locker! For me, Jan is a student who truly embodies the IB Learner Attributes, and I look forward to hearing about all he is set to achieve in the next chapter of his academic journey beyond ISR.”
Ms. McGee, ISR’s Student Leadership Council Advisor, also recognizes Jan’s contributions and explains:
“I would like to recognize Jan for his outstanding leadership of the Magazine and Yearbook Team last school year. With a truly magnanimous spirit, he inspired SLC prefects to join him on a creative journey of writing and graphic design as he successfully relaunched our school magazine, the ISR Insight. His energy, positivity, and ever-present smile set the tone for the entire team, and his impact is still felt and talked about this year. We wish him every success as he goes for gold in the IB!”
Mr. McGowan, Jan’s Homeroom teacher, adds:
“Jan is an exemplary student and a marvellous young person as well. He has a great sense of humour, is dedicated to his studies, and takes an active part in Homeroom and in school life as a whole. It may be cool to be good, but I think it must also be pretty cool to be Jan.”
Ms. Freise, Jan’s former English teacher, fondly recalls:
“When I first met Jan, he was a brand-new student at ISR in Grade 5. He was, and I believe still is, very funny, witty, and kind. It was a pleasure teaching him, as he was a great team player and eager learner.
He acquired English very quickly and moved through the ESL program in no time. Even today, it is very nice to strike up a small conversation with Jan and learn about his exciting future. Students of his caliber leave a lasting impact and will be remembered positively at ISR.”
Jan’s former German teacher, Ms. Herda, also shares:
“Jan is one of the most creative students I have ever had the pleasure of teaching. I have known him since 8th Grade in German class. He is very motivated and participates wonderfully in class. The best thing about being a teacher is watching students like Jan develop and mature, and yet still fondly remember little things from back then – like our ‘dative case song’ – and still enjoy singing it. All the best, Jan, and keep being you!”
Dr. Mitchell, the Academic Head of Grades 7 & 8, adds succinctly:
“Jan is always a positive, engaged, and happy student.”
Finally, Ms. Chanal, expresses how impressed she is with Jan’s involvement in the CAS Big Brother and Big Sister program, stating:
“Jan is a wonderful big brother to our Elementary School students. We are lucky to have him participate in the program.”
We are proud to spotlight Jan as 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
