Learning from the Past: WWII Eyewitness Mr. Hüllen Visits ISR to Share His Story and Life Lessons

Learning from the Past: WWII Eyewitness Mr. Hüllen Visits ISR to Share His Story and Life Lessons

Thursday, January 16th

Yesterday, we had the honor of welcoming Mr. Hüllen, a World War II eyewitness, at ISR. Mr. Hüllen shared his experiences as a child before, during, and after the war with our Grade 9 and 10 students. The students had prepared numerous questions for Mr. Hüllen. He provided a unique perspective on life during this historic period, offering insights into the daily challenges and fears faced by civilians during the time. Mr. Hüllen strongly emphasized the importance of democracy, drawing from his personal experiences and the contrast between life under totalitarian rule and in a free society. It was an engaging, emotional, and educational lecture and all students listened attentively.

Mr. Hüllen, along with other eyewitnesses, have visited over 500 schools across Germany already; sharing their experiences with younger generations. Their goal is to ensure that the lessons of World War II are not forgotten and to foster a deeper understanding of the consequences of war and the value of peace.

We are deeply grateful to Mr. Hüllen for his time and for sharing his personal experiences with our students. As one ISR Parent mentioned after the lecture: “These life experiences are an incredible privilege for our kids — not just academically, as they tie into their program, but also as meaningful life lessons.”

By hearing from those who lived through these events, our students gained a more intricate and empathetic understanding of the past, which is crucial for shaping a better future.

At ISR, we are proud to offer our students such learning experiences!


Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Silvain

Spotlight On Our Student Silvain

This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our fifth-grader, Silvain. Silvain joined ISR in 2022 and has quickly become a valued member of our school community. Known for his curiosity and dedication, Silvain approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and determination.

Silvain was nominated for the Student Spotlight by his teacher, Ms. Codina. She says, “Since Term 2, Silvain has transformed into a gifted writer and oral reader. He writes texts well beyond his years, has a broad vocabulary, and demonstrates passion for his work. He performs what he has written with confidence, captivating and entertaining his listeners. Watching his transformation has been so rewarding; it’s truly lovely to see him blossom and build his confidence. He’s kind, helpful, and respectful, and always demonstrates integrity. His grades in all subjects are outstanding. He is a joy to teach and brightens every classroom. We are truly blessed to have him in our class.”

Mr. Grubelic, Silvain’s Computing teacher, adds, “I can always depend on Silvain to go above and beyond in Computing. He is studious, patient, and collaborates well with others, producing excellent and thoughtful output in whatever program we are working on. Silvain was also one of the first students to submit his Python code for this year’s Astro Pi: Mission Zero project—in other words, his code is going to run on a Raspberry Pi computer on the International Space Station orbiting Earth later this year! Quite literally out of this world! Keep up the awesome work, Silvain!”

Silvain’s time at ISR highlights his dedication and enthusiasm for learning. His growth as a student and individual is evident in the positive contributions he makes to the classroom.

We are proud to spotlight Silvain 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!


International Peace Poster Contest by Lions Club: ISR Student Wins Top Prize in Germany

International Peace Poster Contest by the Lions Club: ISR Student Wins Top Prize in Germany

Thursday, January 9th

We are thrilled to announce that our talented ISR 7th-grade student, Arjun, has won first prize in Germany for his entry in the Lions Club International Peace Poster Contest!

Arjun’s creative artwork stood out among many entries from all over Germany, showcasing his powerful message and understanding of peace. His poster will now represent Germany as it advances to the international Lions Club Peace Poster Competition in the United States!

“There are infinite ways to find peace. For example, respecting one another irrespective of gender, color, race, etc. Using the available resources with care. Hence, my peace dove is carrying a ribbon that looks like infinity”, stated Arjun when he handed in his poster in November.

A special thank you goes to our amazing art teacher, Ms. Schultz, for her guidance and support, and to Ms. Schulenberg, the Lions Club Neuss Novaesia Representative, for organizing this unique opportunity for our students.

We are incredibly proud of Arjun’s achievement and wish him the best of luck in the next stage of the contest. Let’s all cheer him on as his inspiring work reaches a global audience!

We invite you to view all of the Peace Poster Contest entries submitted by ISR students by clicking on the button below:


"Talk About Democracy!" - with this important appeal, the first Deputy District Administrator, Mrs. Katharina Reinhold, concluded her Career Talk at ISR.

“Talk About Democracy!” – with this important appeal, the first Deputy District Administrator, Mrs. Katharina Reinhold, concluded her Career Talk at ISR.

Thursday, December 12th, 2024

Following her visit as part of the ISR Open House in mid-October, Mrs. Reinhold agreed to share more about the Rhein-Kreis Neuss, her position, and her career path with the secondary school students of ISR. After a brief presentation, the young people were allowed to ask her interesting questions, including what they could do today to get involved. “Talk About Democracy” was Mrs. Reinhold’s clear response. After her lecture, she also visited the ISR Winter Wonderland Market at ISR and enjoyed the festive Christmas carols performed by our fifth-grade students.

 We wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Reinhold for her visit, the insightful information she provided, and the time she took.


Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Marie

Spotlight On Our Student Marie

This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our second-grader, Marie. Marie joined ISR in 2023 and has quickly become a standout member of our school community. Her positive energy, determination, and kind-hearted nature have made her a role model among her peers and a joy to her teachers.

Marie was nominated for the Student Spotlight by her teacher, Ms. Hartmann. She says, “Marie is an amazing student. Each day she comes to school in a bright and happy mood. She is always friendly, polite and willing to help or support her classmates. She is a hardworking student who doesn’t give up easily. Marie shines with a big smile and positive attitude. She is always up for funny and witty comments or ideas. I am truly grateful to be her teacher this year and to see her shine brighter each day.”

Ms. Morris, the Academic Head of Grades 4 and 5, says of Marie, “Marie is a kind student who is an enthusiastic learner. After joining ISR she quickly became a valued member of our school community, forming friendships easily and showing the utmost respect to her teachers. Marie’s determination is commendable, and we are happy to have her at our school!”

Ms. Ghica, the Academic Head of Grades 2 and 3, adds: “Today, I want to take a moment to celebrate a very special Grade 2 student who has shown us all what determination and hard work look like. Earlier last year, she faced some big challenges. But instead of giving up, she worked harder, asked for help when she needed it, and kept trying. And now, she’s absolutely shining! Her growth and courage remind us of all that we can achieve amazing things if we believe in ourselves and put in the effort. Let’s give a huge round of applause to Marie for being such an inspiration to all of us!”

We are so proud to spotlight Marie 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 Darshan

Spotlight On Our Student Darshan

This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our eighth-grader, Darshan. Darshan joined ISR in 2023 and has quickly become a standout member of our school community. He approaches his lessons with enthusiasm and a positive attitude, which has greatly contributed to his academic success. 

Darshan was nominated for the Student Spotlight by his French teacher, Ms. Chanal, who says, “Darshan is really engaged in his learning. He actively listens to advice, which of course explains his progress in French. He is always helpful and has a positive attitude in class.” 

Ms. McLeod, the Head of ISR’s Elementary School, worked with Darshan last year and also has positive things to say about him. “Darshan is a kind and polite young man who has really grown during his time at ISR. He will without a doubt greet me each day with a big smile and a ‘Good Morning! ’ and is always willing to help his peers and teachers.” 

Darshan’s English teacher, Mr. Davis, enjoys having him in class, saying, “Darshan is a lovely lad and great fun to have in English. He works very hard and has good ideas to contribute, and a great sense of humour, which I appreciate.” 

Mr. Nisic, Darshan’s Mathematics teacher, adds, “Darshan has shown great interest in math this year. I am very happy with how engaged he is, how he starts discussions, asks questions, and shares different ways of solving math problems.” 

Darshan’s potential shines brightly at ISR, as evidenced by the praise from his teachers. Keep up the fantastic work, Darshan! 

We are so proud to spotlight Darshan 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!


Turkish Consul General in Düsseldorf, Mr. İzbul, visited ISR

Turkish Consul General in Düsseldorf, Mr. İzbul, visited ISR

Monday, December 2nd, 2024

On Monday, we welcomed the Turkish Consul General in Düsseldorf, Mr. Ali İhsan İzbul, to ISR once again for a special Turkish Breakfast prepared by our dedicated Turkish Community at ISR. The morning began with a warm greeting from our Turkish students, who presented a handmade sign to the Consul General. Our ISR Management Team also extended a heartfelt welcome to our esteemed guest.

The event was made even more special by the presence of around 40 families from our Turkish Community at ISR, who came together to organize a delightful Turkish Breakfast. Before the meal, Mr. Soliman, Proprietor of ISR, welcomed the Consul General and our Turkish Community, highlighting the strong cohesion and international spirit at ISR. Adding a personal touch to the event, our Turkish students prepared profiles about themselves in Turkish, sharing what they like the most about ISR. This heartwarming gesture showcased the strong connection our students feel to both their heritage and our ISR Community.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Consul General İzbul for taking the time to visit ISR and engage with our Turkish Community. Furthermore, we wish to thank our Turkish Community representative Ms. Kaya, as well as all families and teachers who supported this wonderful event.

A huge thank you also goes to our dedicated Turkish Community at ISR, who organized the delicious food for this special get-together for all to enjoy. We look forward to continued exchanges and partnerships that enhance the global perspective within our ISR Community!


Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ray

Spotlight On Our Student Ray

This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our sixth-grader, Ray. Ray joined ISR in 2023. Since his arrival, Ray has consistently impressed his teachers and peers with his exceptional academic achievements and vibrant personality, quickly becoming a cherished member of our school community. 

Ray was nominated for the Student Spotlight by his homeroom teacher, Ms. Palmieri, who says, “Ray is an all-around outstanding student, and it is such a privilege to have him in our class. While still learning English with his English teacher, Ray has worked extremely hard to earn top marks in both Science and Social Studies this term. His Mathematics skills and knowledge are exceptional, and he is looked up to by his peers. In addition to excelling in academics, Ray has a special artistic talent in the art of origami. He is able to make exquisite pieces simply from his imagination. Lastly, Ray is a respectful student, always showing manners and keeping his area tidy. He is well-liked by his classmates as he is funny, friendly, and always smiling!” 

Mr. Nous, Ray’s sports teacher, also has positive things to say about his student: “Ray had a top performance at the shuttle run test and excelled in his basketball lessons. He is a pleasant student who is willing to improve himself and help others to do so, too.” 

Ray’s English teacher, Ms. Donoghue, also has great things to say: “Ray is an enthusiastic student and loves to participate in class. He is eager to improve his English and has shown improvement in all areas (writing, reading, speaking, and listening) this term. He always smiles when he enters the room and shows interest in various topics. He is not afraid to make mistakes, which is such an important part of the language learning process. It’s wonderful having a student with such a positive attitude and genuine love of learning in my class.” 

Ray’s journey at ISR illustrates what it means to be a dedicated and versatile student. His ability to excel academically while embracing new challenges speaks to his strong character and determination, making him a notable example of our motto: We Enable Great Minds and Strong Characters. 

We are so proud to spotlight Ray 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!