ISR Students Shine at the Kö-Meile Run in Düsseldorf

ISR Students Shine at the Kö-Meile Run in Düsseldorf

Last Sunday, more than 100 ISR Kindergarten children and students from our campuses in Neuss, Düsseldorf, and Meerbusch proudly represented ISR at the annual Kö-Meile run in Düsseldorf. From our youngest kindergarteners to our determined Grade 10 runners, the spirit of teamwork, perseverance, and enthusiasm was on full display!

With perfect weather and an electric atmosphere, our students achieved fantastic results across the races. We could not be prouder of every single participant for their dedication and effort – a further testament to our motto: It’s cool to be good!

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our supportive families, our Student Leadership Council, and our PE department, whose guidance and encouragement made the day such a success.

At ISR, we place great importance on promoting sports, fitness, and healthy competition as part of our students’ holistic development. Events like the Kö-Meile highlight not only the athletic talent within our community, but also the strong values of commitment, resilience, and teamwork that define our sports program.

We are already looking forward to seeing our ISR athletes shine at the next event!


Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ramin

Spotlight On Our Student Ramin

This week, we are proud to spotlight our eleventh-grader, Ramin, who joined ISR in 2019.

Ramin was highly recommended for the Student Spotlight by his homeroom teacher, Dr. McGee, who shares:

“I have taught Ramin for 3 years now, he has always been a wonderful student to have in class, and I am impressed with his growth and the maturity he is showing at the start of this year.  In class, he stands out as one of the most outstanding presenters, always well-prepared and confident, often adding his own signature humor to engage his peers. He is studious and eager to improve, never hesitating to ask questions that benefit the whole class. And, I must add, he does some of the best teacher impressions I’ve heard!”

Ramin’s former Grade 6 teacher, Ms. Freise, also added some kind words:

“Ramin has made tremendous progress since joining ISR. He is a kind and considerate student who has grown personally and academically. His English skills have improved greatly, and he continues to work hard in class. Ramin’s positive attitude and dedication are truly commendable, and I look forward to seeing his continued success.”

His current Business teacher, Ms. van Rhee, echoed these sentiments, saying:

“Ramin is very kind and always contributes positive input in the classroom. It is a pleasure having him as a student.”

We are proud to spotlight Ramin 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 Rihito

Spotlight On Our Student Rihito

This week, we are proud to spotlight our third-grader, Rihito, who joined ISR in 2023. He was enthusiastically nominated for the Student Spotlight by his second-grade teacher, Ms. Hartmann. She writes, “Rihito is a dedicated and hard-working student. He strives to do his best work and truly embodies our ISR Guiding Principle – We Enable Great Minds and Strong Characters. It was a pleasure to teach Rihito in Grade 2. He brightened the classroom with his wit, curiosity, and inquisitive questions, as well as his strong understanding of justice. His cheerful nature and big smile are infectious, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for him”.

Rihito has also made a strong impression on Ms. Ghica, the Academic Head of Grades 2 and 3. She says,

“I’d like to give a very special shoutout to Rihito. When he first joined our school in Grade 1, he didn’t speak any English at all. That can be a big challenge, but Rihito worked hard, stayed positive, and never gave up. Mr. Edwards, his former Grade 1 teacher, and Ms. Hartmann, his Grade 2 teacher, can be proud! Now, just two years later in Grade 3, he has grown into a confident student who not only excels in his learning but also supports others. Rihito, your journey shows us the power of resilience, and we are so glad you are part of our school community!”

Now in his new Grade 3 class, Rihito’s homeroom teacher, Ms. Vittin, writes,

“Rihito has just joined my third-grade class, and he is a very joyful and enthusiastic learner. He is always willing to lend a helping hand and work well with others. Although I have not known him for very long, he has already been a wonderful addition to our class.”

We are proud to spotlight Rihito 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 Don

Spotlight On Our Student Don

This week, we are delighted to shine the spotlight on Don, an exceptional fifth grader who joined ISR in 2024.

Don was nominated for the ISR Student Spotlight by Ms. Morris, Academic Coordinator for Grade 5. She shares:

“Since joining ISR this school year, Don has been a dynamic presence. His quick wit and sense of humor are appreciated by both students and teachers. Don is an incredibly helpful student, always willing to lend a hand. Though new to ISR, he was selected as a member of the ESLC team this year and has done an outstanding job supporting the team’s initiatives. We are proud to have Don at ISR!”

Ms. Codina, Don’s Homeroom Teacher, adds:

“Don is like the LeBron James of our classroom – working with him inspires those around him to improve and strive to be their best. His positivity is infectious and sets the tone for how students engage with content and with each other. He makes learning fun and proves that being cool and smart are not mutually exclusive.”

Don’s Music Teacher, Ms. Bucher, says:

“Don is a very intelligent and funny child who is extremely conscientious in everything he does. He is also an excellent musician with a fantastic singing voice and is always kind to others. I think I speak for all his teachers when I say that we feel we hit the jackpot when Don joined ISR!”

Ms. Chanal, Don’s French Teacher, adds:

“Don excelled in French lessons, and his behavior was always impeccable. He successfully passed the DELF A1 test this year.”

Ms. Schmitz, Don’s German Teacher, notes:

“Don brings so much positive energy to our classroom! With his open and joyful personality, he brings laughter and fun to our lessons every day. He always tries his best, makes great connections, and shares his ideas thoughtfully. What makes Don stand out is his willingness to support his classmates”.

Finally, Ms. McGee, Student Leadership Council Advisor, shares:

“I am pleased to have had the opportunity to work with Don this school year through the Elementary Student Leadership Council. His positive attitude alone makes him more than deserving of the ISR Student Spotlight. Don arrives at our weekly SEA meetings with a polished look and a bright smile. Throughout our time together, he has shown himself to be a kind, thoughtful young man who is always ready to lend a helping hand. He has already made a meaningful impact at ISR, and I sincerely hope he continues his leadership journey next school year with the same heart, spirit, and dedication”.

We are proud to spotlight Don 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 Lilia

Spotlight On Our Student Lilia

This week, we are delighted to shine the spotlight on Lilia, a remarkable second grader who began her ISR journey in 2023.

Lilia was nominated for the ISR Student Spotlight by her teacher, Ms. Hartmann, who shares:

“Lilia is an amazing, creative, friendly, and positive student. Every day, she comes to school with a big smile and an unmatched eagerness to learn. Lilia is always willing to lend a helping hand. I am so grateful to be her teacher this year and can’t wait to see what the future holds for her. She has a beautiful heart and soul, and any teacher is lucky to have her in their class.”

Ms. Ewing, Lilia’s music teacher, adds:

“Lilia is a very kind student who works hard. She is also quite musical and has participated with enthusiasm in music lessons and the Grade 1-3 choir this year!”

Ms. Kilian, who taught Lilia in Grade 1 says, “From the very first day of Grade 1, Lilian has stood out as a well-organized, well-mannered, and truly delightful student. Her kindness, diligence, and willingness to help others make her a shining example to her peers. No task is ever too big for Lilian—she approaches everything with a positive attitude and unwavering determination. She truly embodies the phrase, “It’s cool to be good,” and has been an absolute pleasure to teach.”

Lilia is also praised by Ms. Ghica, the Academic Head of Grades 2-3, who says:

“Lilia, you have been our ray of sunshine for the past two years! Your excitement for learning is absolutely contagious, and your kindness never goes unnoticed. Whether you are helping a classmate with a big smile or brightening your teacher’s day with your gentle words, you remind us all of how powerful a caring heart can be. Keep being your wonderful, enthusiastic self. We are all so lucky to have you in our school family!”

We are proud to spotlight Lilia 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 Kento

Spotlight On Our Student Kento

This week, we are delighted to shine the spotlight on Kento, an exceptional tenth grader who joined ISR in 2023.

Kento was nominated for the ISR Student Spotlight by our SLC Coordinator, Ms. McGee, who shares: “Kento served as our Deputy Team Leader of the Events Department this school year. He brought enthusiasm, dedication, and a keen creative spark to the team and his hard work was instrumental in ensuring the success of our many events. Whether brainstorming ideas or managing details behind the scenes, Kento’s passion and commitment not only helped students create lasting memories but also made a significant impact on our entire team. We are grateful for his leadership and tireless effort!”

Ms. Van Rhee, Kento’s Business Management teacher, adds: “Kento is just amazing! I appreciate his positive energy, and it’s always a pleasure working with him!”

Kento’s P.E. and Sport Science teacher, Mr. Nous, remarks: “Kento is an athletic, hardworking student who strives to achieve the best possible results. He does this by working with discipline and showing a strong eagerness to learn. Moreover, he is always respectful and very polite. It is an honor to teach him.”

Ms. Hirano, Kento’s Japanese teacher, says: “Kento is a very positive thinker who has a strong sense of self-awareness and is always striving to grow and improve. He maintains a strong sense of balance, treats everyone with fairness, and is a compassionate and outstanding student.”

We are proud to spotlight Kento 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 Arno

Spotlight On Our Student Arno

This week, we are delighted to shine the spotlight on Arno, a remarkable first grader who began his ISR journey in kindergarten in 2023 and is now nearing the completion of his first year in Elementary School.

Arno was nominated for the ISR Student Spotlight by his teacher, Ms. Kilian, who shares, “Arno is a shining example of what it means to be a true role model in our classroom. Always responsible and exceptionally organized, he consistently sets a high standard for himself and others. Whether it’s coming into class with a bright smile or approaching each day with enthusiasm and a readiness to learn, Arno’s positive attitude is contagious”.

Ms. Kilian adds, “He is well liked by his peers, not just for his friendly nature, but also for his genuine kindness. Arno is always willing to lend a helping hand, showing care and consideration to everyone around him. His thoughtful actions and dependable character make him a person others naturally look up to. We are so proud to celebrate Arno and the wonderful impact he has on our class!”.

Ms. Johnson, another Grade 1 teacher adds, “Arno is such a caring and considerate student, he always holds the door open for the children to come back in”.

Arno has also made a lasting impression on Ms. Vrem, Head of ISR Kindergarten and Academic Head of Grade 1. She says, “Arno is a wonderful child! He joined us in KG2 and quickly proved himself to be a very thoughtful and gentle person. He is well liked by both friends and staff, and his smile warms your heart”.

Finally, Ms. Fatscher, Arno’s former kindergarten teacher, fondly recalls, “I remember Arno in KG2 as a responsible, kind, honest, and curious student who always tried his best and always tried to do what’s right. What an amazing choice for the student spotlight. Congratulations Arno!”.

We are proud to spotlight Arno 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!


Young Innovators: ISR Students Shine at World Robot Olympiad

Young Innovators: ISR Students Excel at World Robot Olympiad

Saturday, May 24, 2025

We are incredibly proud of our talented ISR students who participated in the World Robot Olympiad last weekend! All four teams successfully completed the competition. Eight of our Elementary School students took part in the exciting Starter Program, where they could achieve up to a Level Three Certificate in the competition, meaning their robot was able to complete most of the given tasks. In particular, the team composed of Elizabeth and Naohiro completed more than 90% of the tasks and won second place. Meanwhile, two of our Grade 7 students competed in the challenging Robo Mission Junior Competition in which they placed third.

For months, these dedicated students have been working hard during their SEA periods – designing, building, and programming their robots with creative solutions. At the competition, each team put their creations to the test over multiple rounds, as their robots followed complex instructions and navigated obstacles on the competition board.

We wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mr. Bai, an ISR parent and SEA robotics instructor, for his time, guidance, and dedication to the program. His support has been invaluable to our students’ success!

Congratulations to all our participants, Sai, Paul, Felix, Theodor, Martin, Shengxi, Elizabeth, Naohiro, Alex, and Alice for their teamwork, creativity, and perseverance! Your passion for robotics and innovation truly inspires us all and is further proof of ISR‘s motto: It’s cool to be good!

Get to know more about the 90+ activities we offer at ISR through our SEA Program


Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Tara

Spotlight On Our Student Tara

This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our eleventh-grader, Tara, who joined ISR in 2017.

Tara was nominated for the ISR Student Spotlight by Mr. Bates, the Academic Head of Grade 11. He says “Tara is a pleasure to teach and is always engaged and inquisitive. She is positive, always smiling, and extremely diligent in her academic pursuits. A team player, who has the respect of her peers and teachers, she exudes quiet confidence, and I am sure she will be successful in whatever path she chooses”.

Dr. McGee, Tara’s IB English teacher adds, “It’s been a wonderful experience being Tara’s IB English teacher and Extended Essay supervisor. She’s the paradigm of an English student —truly dedicated to improving her writing craft, and her growing command of the English language continues to impress.  It’s been a pleasure watching her grow as a writer, thinker, and student”.

Tara has also made an impression on the Student Leadership Council, with SLC Advisor Ms. McGee noting, “Tara is a bright light on our Student Leadership Council’s Events Team.  I know her for always having a smile and an idea to contribute to help with planning or execution. I am impressed with her communication skills and proud of the steady support she has given this year!”.

Ms. Megal, Tara’s former IGCSE Spanish teacher, has fond memories of her student, sharing, “Tara is a cheerful and positive student who always gives her best. She holds herself to high standards and is kind to her classmates. She left a great impression with her enthusiasm and dedication”.

We are proud to spotlight Tara 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 Luca

Spotlight On Our Student Luca

This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our sixth-grader, Luca, who joined ISR in 2023.

Luca was nominated for the ISR Student Spotlight by his Spanish teacher, Ms. Sinarcas. She says, “I would like to nominate Luca for his exceptional qualities and efforts throughout this academic year. I have the privilege of teaching him Spanish, and from the very beginning, Luca has shown a remarkable attitude toward learning.

Not only has he worked diligently in mastering a new language (this being his first year of contact with Spanish), but he has done so with a level of positivity, curiosity, and respect that is truly outstanding. Luca consistently demonstrates a genuine interest in the subject-asking insightful questions, volunteering for oral activities in front of the class, and reading texts aloud for his peers.

His eagerness to participate and his friendly, optimistic demeanor make him a joy to teach. Luca is always smiling and is genuinely caring, often asking me how I am and if I’ve had a good day. His kindness, respect, and enthusiasm are qualities that make him stand out as not just an excellent student, but a wonderful person.

It has been a true pleasure to be Luca’s teacher this year. He is, without a doubt, an exceptional young individual who deserves recognition.”

Luca’s Music teacher, Dr. Perez, also has great things to say: “Luca has achieved tremendous progress since I started teaching him last school year. His confidence, his discipline, and his perseverance are plausible. He is always respectful and thrives to do the best even when the task seems challenging. He will achieve great things.”

Ms. Freise, who has covered Luca’s class on numerous occasions, adds, “Luca is truly a wonderful student. He’s kind, approachable, and genuine, and his quick learning and intelligence always impresses. He is very polite and it’s a pleasure to see him grow and excel!”

Our English teacher, Ms. Barba continues, “Luca is an amazing student. He’s hardworking, sweet and kind. He will always put 110% effort into everything he does. He truly represents our motto: It’s cool to be good!”

Finally, Ms. Scholz, Luca’s German teacher, says, “I’ve had the joy of teaching Luca in German since Grade 5, and he’s been a fantastic student every step of the way! His reliability, dedication, and polite nature truly stand out. Luca is a wonderful role model and a much-liked member of our class. It’s always a pleasure to have him my lessons.”

We are proud to spotlight Luca 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!