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!
Our Student Spotlights
Outstanding Achievement of two ISR Students at the “Jugend musiziert” National Competition in Wuppertal
Outstanding Achievement of two ISR Students at the “Jugend musiziert” National Competition in Wuppertal
Tuesday, 17. June 2025
Two of our ISR students, who are also students of our esteemed partner, Musicbox Oxana, have achieved remarkable success at this year’s national “Jugend musiziert” competition in Wuppertal.
Peter, who plays the piano (student of Oxana Koppers), and his duo partner Yukichio, who plays the saxophone (student of Yuriy Broshel), were awarded an outstanding 1st Prize with 24 points in the highly competitive category “Piano and a Woodwind Instrument,” Age Group III. With over 30 duos from across Germany performing at the highest level, this achievement is truly exceptional!
We are incredibly proud of Peter and Yukichio’s dedication and hard work. Their success is a testament not only to their talent, but also to their consistent, focused practice and the unwavering support from their families.
Congratulations to Peter and Yukichio on this fantastic accomplishment! The entire Musicbox Oxana team and ISR Community celebrate your outstanding achievement. We look forward to seeing your musical journeys continue and to seeing how you inspire others with your passion and dedication.
ISR Graduation Ceremony 2025: A Distinguished Milestone
ISR Graduation Ceremony 2025: A Distinguished Milestone
Friday, June 13th, 2025
On the previous Friday, the ISR International School on the Rhine community convened under the most favorable weather conditions for the distinguished ISR Graduation Ceremony of 2025. It is with considerable pride that we celebrated the accomplishments of a total of seventy-two graduates – a record number that signifies another milestone in the history of ISR.
Several hundred distinguished guests – comprising family members, friends, benefactors, as well as esteemed representatives from the spheres of politics, commerce, and academia – gathered within the historic Zeughaus of the city of Neuss. The historical setting provided an exceptional and dignified environment for the occasion, thereby accentuating the significance of this memorable day.
Prominent among the honored guests were Mrs. Platen, Deputy Mayor for Schools, Education, and Culture of the City of Neuss; Mayor Reiner Breuer; Mr. Fuchs, Board Chairman, accompanied by his wife Mrs. Siepe; Mr. Nickel, a valued member of our Board; and Mr. Abe, Principal of JISD.
The ceremony was formally inaugurated by Eileen Lyons, School Director at ISR; Mr. Peter Soliman, Proprietor of the institution; and Mr. Emil Cete, Head of Secondary School. In their respective addresses, they commended the outstanding achievements of the graduates and extended their gratitude to all individuals who have contributed to the success of the school – some for more than two decades. The speakers underscored the distinctive values upheld by ISR and emphasized the paramount importance of an exemplary education in shaping the future of our students.
Following the opening remarks, Mayor Reiner Breuer addressed the assembled guests. In his speech, he highlighted the pivotal role of ISR as a preeminent educational institution within the city of Neuss and lauded the dedication of the school community.
The proceedings were further elevated by a musical performance from Rubi and Jade, whose artistry captivated the audience and provided a distinguished tribute to the graduating class.
Subsequently, the Parent Speaker, Mr. Radtke – father of four ISR graduates – delivered a heartfelt address. He reflected upon years past and eloquently conveyed the profound connection between parents and the school.
The formal speeches concluded with remarks from Valedictorian Victoria and Salutatorian Nico, who addressed both the guests and their fellow graduates. Their words resonated with the sentiment that the most cherished memories will be those of the enduring bonds forged during their time at ISR -friendships spanning the globe and shared experiences that will be treasured for a lifetime.
Following the ceremonial conferral of the ISR High School Diplomas, graduates, their families, and guests assembled for a convivial reception. In an atmosphere of harmony and celebration, this notable occasion was commemorated, and the achievements of the students were duly honored.
We wish to extend our sincere gratitude to the dedicated ISR Parent Network mothers – Mrs. Osterried, Mrs. Radtke, and Mrs. D’Urso – whose unwavering commitment has significantly enriched the educational experience of the twelfth-grade students. We also express our appreciation to all families who have supported their children’s academic journeys with steadfast dedication. Our special appreciation furthermore extends to all teachers and staff members, who consistently place the students at the heart of their work and, through their tireless commitment, play a vital role in shaping the vibrant school life and the ongoing success of ISR.
We remain confident that all graduates will embark upon their future endeavors with courage, inquisitiveness, and a sense of responsibility, thereby embodying the school’s guiding principle: “great minds & strong characters.”
The ISR Graduation Ceremony 2025 will be remembered by all participants as an extraordinary and unforgettable event. Above all, it has served as a powerful testament to the close bonds of friendship between the school, parents, and students, as well as the shared commitment to always strive for the very best for every child. These distinctive qualities are unique to ISR and define the exceptional sense of community that thrives within our school!
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!
Our Student Spotlights
Celebrating Excellence in Mathematics: 42 ISR Students Succeed in the Kangaroo Competition
Celebrating Excellence in Mathematics: 42 ISR Students Succeed in the Kangaroo Competition
Thursday, June 12th, 2025
Our Mathematics Department at ISR had something to celebrate this week during a recent award ceremony, which honored the outstanding achievements of our students in the Mathematics Kangaroo Competition.
The Mathematics Kangaroo (Känguru der Mathematik) is an internationally recognized competition that encourages students from around the world to develop their problem-solving skills and mathematical thinking. It is designed for various age groups and challenges participants with creative and engaging problems that go beyond standard curriculum exercises. The competition promotes a love of mathematics and inspires students to pursue excellence in this critical field.
This year’s results have surpassed all expectations. In 2024, we proudly celebrated 21 students who achieved top-three positions in their respective categories. This year, that number has doubled to an incredible 42 winners! Eleven students secured 1st place, fifteen earned 2nd place, and sixteen achieved 3rd place. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to the hard work, perseverance, and passion of our students – and teachers! Their expert guidance, encouragement, and commitment to fostering a stimulating learning environment at ISR have played a crucial role in preparing our students for this prestigious competition.
Congratulations once again to all our winners, and a sincere thank you to everyone who made this achievement possible.
It is further proof of our motto: “It’s cool to be good!”
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!
Our Student Spotlights
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!
Our Student Spotlights
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!
Our Student Spotlights
Japanese Consul General of Düsseldorf visits ISR – May, 21st 2025
Japanese Consul General of Düsseldorf visits ISR
Wednesday, May 21st, 2025
Today, we had the great honor of welcoming the Japanese Consul General in Düsseldorf, Mr. Tsunoda to our ISR Campus in Neuss.
Our ISR Kindergarten children warmly welcomed our guests with a handmade sign in Japanese. Following this, our talented Grade 3 choir delighted everyone by performing a traditional Japanese folk song in honor of our distinguished visitors. Afterwards, Consul General Tsunoda enjoyed a guided tour of our campus, led by two of our Japanese students, Kento and Kana from Grade 10, who proudly showcased our vibrant school community and modern campus facilities.
With over 100 Japanese families at our Neuss and Düsseldorf campuses, the visit from the Japanese Consulate holds great significance for ISR. During the kindergarten and school tour, our guests met Japanese families who are actively involved in our school community, for example, by volunteering in our library. In addition, the Consul had the opportunity to meet our Japanese Language Teachers as well as our Japanese Admissions Officer, all of whom emphasized the important role ISR plays for the Japanese Community in Düsseldorf and the surrounding area.
Today’s visit was preceded by a visit from the Japanese Consulate just two weeks ago, during which representatives from the Consulate attended our ISR International Spring Festival. As the festival is dedicated to celebrating different cultures and traditions, the Japanese Consulate delighted our guests with origami crafting activities and calligraphy demonstrations.
We sincerely thank Consul General Tsunoda for his visit and for taking the time to meet our ISR Community. Their presence highlights the strong and valued partnership between the Japanese Consulate General in Düsseldorf and ISR – a relationship we are truly proud of!
We look forward to many more opportunities for collaboration in the future!
