ISR Students Shine Globally: Excellence Award in Japan's Prestigious Sedia Foundation Contest

ISR Students Shine Globally: Excellence Award in Japan’s Prestigious Sedia Foundation Contest

Tuesday, March 11th, 2025

ISR 5th-grade students Sawa, Yojuro, Haruka, and Shuma have achieved a remarkable distinction by securing the Excellence Award (3rd place) in a prestigious nationwide competition in Japan. The “10th Sedia Foundation National Elementary School ‘Our Lives and Water’ Wall Newspaper Contest 2024” challenged elementary school students to create innovative wall newspapers based on the annual theme. Our ISR students conducted in-depth research on “the essential water that is indispensable in our lives” and crafted their wall newspaper after studying the innovative role of sheep in protecting the Rhine River.

This year’s contest attracted an impressive 4,766 entries from 176 schools across Japan. What makes this achievement truly remarkable is that ISR was the only school outside of Japan to participate, demonstrating our students’ ability to excel on a global stage. The winning entries were selected through a rigorous judging process, and we are thrilled that our students’ hard work and creativity have been recognized with this award.

The contest was supported by prominent organizations such as the National Association of Municipal Education Committees and the National Union of Elementary School Principals, highlighting the ingenuity and creativity of elementary school students from across Japan.

As a result of this outstanding achievement, Sawa, Yojuro, Haruka, and Shuma will receive a certificate, a commemorative trophy, and a ¥20,000 bookstore gift card. Additionally, the booklet featuring the winning works will be distributed to over 10,000 elementary schools in Japan, further amplifying the impact of their project. We extend our deepest gratitude to our exceptional Japanese teacher, Ms. Inagaki, for her tireless efforts in organizing the project and inspiring our students to produce such outstanding work. We hope this accomplishment will inspire us all to continue exploring the importance of water and to keep learning. As we always say, “It’s cool to be good”!


Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Abdulrazak

Spotlight On Our Student Abdulrazak

This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our third-grader, Abdulrazak, who joined ISR in 2024. His positive attitude and infectious enthusiasm have had a great impact on both his peers and teachers, inspiring a supportive and collaborative classroom environment.

Abdulrazak, affectionately known as ‘Abudi’ in class, was nominated for the Student Spotlight by his homeroom teacher, Ms. Vittin. She says, “Abudi is a bright and selfless learner, who genuinely loves learning. He is constantly helping others out and considering them in the classroom. Furthermore, Abudi is a wonderful partner, who is patient, and always takes the time to explain different concepts to people who need help. He is also more than willing to help out in the classroom, or to help other teachers and students outside of the classroom. Abudi strives to do his very best and always puts 110% into all the work he does. All in all, he is a role-model student, who is a true joy to have in class, well done!”

Mr. Nous, Abudi’s Sports teacher, adds, “Abudi is a friendly, sporty boy who clearly enjoys being active. He adjusted in the group quickly last year and is an appreciated member of the group.”

Abdulrazak’s ability to balance being a supportive classmate with his own academic pursuits is truly commendable. We are proud to have him as part of our ISR family and look forward to seeing his continued growth and achievements. He truly embodies our school motto: “It’s cool to be good!”

We are proud to spotlight Abdulrazak 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!


Carnival Parade in Düsseldorf-Niederkassel

Carnival Parade in Düsseldorf-Niederkassel

Sunday, March 2nd, 2025

At ISR, cultural diversity is at the heart of our international community, and we cherish opportunities to bring our international families from over 60 nationalities together. This year, we were once again excited to take part in the joyful and family-friendly Carnival Parade in Düsseldorf-Niederkassel – under bright sunshine and perfect weather!

Guided by our inspiring motto “Many Cultures, One Global Language: Education,” over 300 ISR Families from our three branches in Neuss, Meerbusch-Büderich, and Düsseldorf-Niederkassel came together to proudly celebrate their vibrant cultural heritage. From Dirndls and Lederhosen to elegant Indian Saris, colorful Chinese Hanfu dresses, and beautiful Japanese Kimonos, our parade group was a dazzling showcase of global traditions. The positive atmosphere, joyful energy, and shared enthusiasm perfectly embodied the spirit of inclusion and togetherness that defines ISR!

A huge thank you to all our families and staff members who made this event so special! Through celebrations like these, we continue to build connections, embrace traditions, and celebrate the importance of diversity.

We are already looking forward to next year’s celebration  – ISR, HELAU!


Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Arjun

Spotlight On Our Student Arjun

This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our seventh-grader, Arjun, who joined ISR in 2017. Since his arrival, Arjun has had many great accomplishments, recently winning the top prize in Germany for the Lion’s Club International Peace Poster Project. His teachers, both past and present, have shared glowing reflections on his talents and character.

Mr. Kirk, ISR’s Science Coordinator, says: “I have been impressed with Arjun’s contributions both within and outside the school. Arjun has produced multi-disciplinary work between science and computing, with his AI assistant “ISRBuddy”. The project was excellent and was entered into the jugend forscht competition where his efforts were recognized with a trophy in the “special curious researcher” category.”

Dr. Mitchell, Academic Head for Grades 7 and 8, adds: “Arjun is quiet, kind, and talented and we are always impressed with his motivation to participate in extracurricular competitions such as the Jugend forscht and the Lions Club International Peace Poster Project.”

Ms. Freise, Arjun’s former English teacher, says, “Arjun is a bright and talented student with a wonderful curiosity for learning. He is highly articulate and impresses with his ability to communicate in multiple languages. His love for reading is evident, and he often shares insightful thoughts and ideas. Arjun’s artistic talent shines through in his creative work, and his keen sense of humor brings joy to those around him. He is always polite and respectful, making him a valued member of the class. It is a joy to teach Arjun.”

Ms. Morris, ISR’s Academic Coordinator for Grades 4 and 5, adds, “Arjun has always been an excellent student. I was particularly impressed by his coding project at this year’s science fair during ISR Open House, where he created a chatbot to share information about ISR. His creativity also shone in his prize-winning entry for the Peace Poster project. Arjun’s talents and wonderful personality always shine through, and I am proud to see everything he is accomplishing!”

And finally, Arjun’s former Kindergarten teacher, Ms. Fatscher (née Ramirez), remembers him fondly saying, “Arjun was in my kindergarten class. I will always remember his kind spirit and positive attitude. When he faced challenges, he kept trying! He always wanted to do his best and showed compassion to others. His playful nature brought great ideas to life! Seeing him now still brings a big smile to my face when I hear him say, ‘Hi Mrs. Ramirez!”

We are proud to spotlight Arjun 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!


Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Joan

Spotlight On Our Student Joan

This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our fifth-grader, Joan, who joined ISR in 2022. From the time she arrived, Joan demonstrated an eagerness to learn and a passion for excelling in all areas of her education.

Joan was nominated for the Student Spotlight by her Music teacher, Ms. Bucher. She says, “Joan is consistently at the top of her class in Music. She takes every assignment seriously – whether Music theory or composition or performing. Since joining ISR, Joan has made remarkable progress in her English skills. She soaked up every word her teachers and classmates shared, listening intently and observing closely, which allowed her to advance quickly. It’s wonderful to see what a confident learner and active participant Joan has become.  She’s so intelligent, hardworking, kind, and has a good sense of humor!

Joan has also impressed her homeroom teacher, Ms. Schmidt. She explains, “Joan displays all the attributes of an exemplary student. She is a positive and enthusiastic person who always gives her best efforts. Joan is kind and considerate, she is a wonderful friend and always willing to help out her fellow classmates.  Her willingness to participate and learn make her an asset during classroom discussions and group work activities. Joan enjoys creative aspects of school life and shows great talent all round.”

In addition to excelling in Music, Joan’s rapid improvement in English highlights her determination and ability to adapt quickly. Her enthusiasm for learning, paired with her kindness and teamwork skills, makes her a role model for her peers.

We are proud to spotlight Joan 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!


Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zach

Spotlight On Our Student Zach

This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our seventh-grader, Zach, who joined ISR in 2018 and has been a valued member of our school community ever since.

Zach was nominated for the Student Spotlight by his Social Studies teacher, Dr. Mitchell, who has been consistently impressed with his performance in her class. She says, “Zach is very excited about Social Studies and expresses a lot of interesting ideas about the topics in the course. He knows a lot about history and finds it engaging.  He is always trying to perfect his written work and build good arguments. We look forward to seeing him excel in the future!”

Ms. Freise, Zach’s sixth-grade English teacher, has fond memories of her former student. She says, “Zach is a lively and engaging student who brings great energy to the classroom. His creativity and sense of humor make him enjoyable in class. He has a natural ability to express ideas in an interesting way. He is talkative and always eager to participate in discussions, which adds to the dynamic of the class. Zach is a pleasure to teach, and I look forward to seeing his continued growth.”

Zach also made a lasting impression on Ms. Morris, our Academic Head for Grades 4 and 5, when he joined ISR. She says, “I met Zach when he started at ISR in 2018, and his enthusiasm for learning was present from the start. Zach has a brilliant mind, and his unique perspectives always added to our class conversations. His personality and huge smile continue to light up any room he enters, and his kindness and willingness to help others embody our motto, “It’s cool to be good!”

Zach’s enthusiasm for learning, creativity, and ability to inspire those around him with his positivity and unique perspectives truly sets him apart.

We are proud to spotlight Zach 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!


ISR Student has the highest IGCSE International Chemistry score in Germany

ISR student has the highest IGCSE International Chemistry score in Germany

Monday, February 10th, 2025

The academic success at ISR continues: Our student Yara achieved the highest score in Germany in the subject IGCSE Chemistry. Proud members of the ISR Secondary School Leadership Team, including Mr. Cete, Mr. Kheir, and Mr. May, as well as our School Director Ms. Lyons and Yara’s teacher Mr. Gottlin, surprised Yara last Friday with a ceremonial presentation of her award! Yara was overjoyed and accepted the special honor with great gratitude.

Her achievement is further proof of the excellent education at ISR, Yara’s passion for science, and her commitment to academic excellence!

We are all incredibly proud to add another award to ISR’s success story with Yara’s outstanding result!


Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student George

Spotlight On Our Student George

This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our ninth-grader, George, who joined ISR at the start of the current school year. According to his teachers, George exemplifies a strong work ethic, consistently demonstrates polite and respectful behavior, and approaches learning with curiosity and enthusiasm.

George was nominated for the Spotlight by the Academic Head of Grades 9 – 10, Mr. Kheir, who shares, “George joined ISR this year and has demonstrated remarkable dedication and effort in his academic journey to reach his current level of achievement. He is highly motivated, committed to his studies, and consistently displays a polite and respectful demeanor”.

Mr. O’Brien, George’s Science teacher echoes this praise, stating, “George has worked extremely hard this year and demonstrated great maturity and determination in improving his science grades. Keep up the great work!”

George’s Computing teacher, Mr. Ellis, also commends his efforts: “In Computing, George has made great strides with his work ethic and commitment in our computing class. He has also demonstrated a proactive attitude and commitment to learning that has distinguished him from others. George has a genuine interest in computing and frequently asks questions to deepen his understanding of complex topics, always contributing actively to the discussion.

George’s dedication and positive attitude reflect the values we strive to cultivate at ISR.

We are proud to spotlight George 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!


ISR Student has the highest IGCSE International Mathematics score in Germany

ISR student has the highest IGCSE International Mathematics score in Germany

Thursday, February 6th, 2025

Yesterday, there was a very special surprise at ISR for our student, Piotr. Our school director, Ms. Lyons; his Academic Coordinator, Mr. Kheir; the Head of the Science Department at ISR, Mr. O’Brien; and his proud Mathematics Teacher, Mr. Sanchez, came together to formally inform Piotr that he scored the highest in Germany for IGCSE International Mathematics and was among the best-performing learners in Germany in the June 2024 IGCSE Examination series.

Piotr was visibly delighted with his achievement and emphasized, “I was inspired by Dan who received the certificate last year at ISR, so I wanted to do it this year!” In the future, he plans to study Computer Science and is currently working hard to gain admission to one of the best universities, aiming to keep all options open for his future career!

This outstanding performance continues ISR’s tradition of excellence in mathematics, marking the third time an ISR student has achieved top marks in this subject. Piotr’s success not only highlights his individual talent but also reflects the high-quality education provided at ISR.

We sincerely congratulate Piotr on this remarkable achievement and for embodying our motto at ISR: It’s cool to be good!