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
September 29, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Filippos
September 22, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Hannah
September 15, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Lasse
September 8, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Sophie
September 1, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Berhan
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
September 29, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Filippos
September 22, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Hannah
September 15, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Lasse
September 8, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Sophie
September 1, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Berhan
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
September 29, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Filippos
September 22, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Hannah
September 15, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Lasse
September 8, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Sophie
September 1, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Berhan
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
September 29, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Filippos
September 22, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Hannah
September 15, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Lasse
September 8, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Sophie
September 1, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Berhan
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!
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!
Our Student Spotlights
September 29, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Filippos
September 22, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Hannah
September 15, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Lasse
September 8, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Sophie
September 1, 2023
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Berhan
An Unforgettable Evening of Art, Music, and Drama – ISR Arts Evening 2025
An Unforgettable Evening of Art, Music, and Drama – ISR Arts Evening 2025
Thursday, May 15, 2025
An evening filled with art, music, and drama – yesterday, we once again celebrated a cherished tradition at ISR: our annual ISR Arts Evening. The program featured impressive musical performances, entertaining drama acts, and a special art exhibition in our ISR Entrance Hall. The exhibition showcased outstanding pieces from students in Grades 4 to 11, including landscapes, explorations of the elements and principles of art, still lifes, “Reinvent the Classic” projects, modern and digital recreations of famous artworks, virtual exhibitions, and even AI-assisted ideas developed during brainstorming sessions.
In total, we enjoyed ten different musical performances, ranging from piano solos by our talented students Yuki, Peter, Gian, Mian, MJ, Mao, and Lara, to a lively set by our Jazz Band, and a beautiful cello performance by Anton. Our student Vikram delighted the audience with a humorous drama piece about “missing homework,” while Maxim performed a monologue by Caroline Seawell. The evening concluded with Lara on piano and Jade on clarinet.
A huge thank you goes to our dedicated Arts Team at ISR: Ms. Bucher, Ms. Henebry, Ms. Bennet, Ms. Schultz, and Dr. Perez for making this unforgettable evening possible!
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to all the students who enriched the ISR Arts Evening with their remarkable performances, as well as to our SLC team, who thoughtfully provided delicious finger food and beverages for our families.
We are confident that everyone enjoyed the evening’s offerings and made wonderful memories during our ISR Arts Evening 2025!
ISR Talents Captivate Audience at the ‘Jugend musiziert’ State Prizewinners’ Concert in Düsseldorf
ISR Talents Captivate Audience at the ‘Jugend musiziert’ State Prizewinners’ Concert in Düsseldorf
Sunday, May 11, 2025
On May 11th, two exceptionally talented ISR students-who also study at our in-house music school, Musicbox Oxana-took to the stage at the prestigious “Jugend musiziert” State Prizewinners’ Concert in the Tonhalle Düsseldorf, captivating an enthusiastic audience.
Jugend musiziert is Germany’s most prestigious nationwide music competition for children and young people. Founded in 1963, the competition promotes young musical talent with professional ambitions through a three-stage contest: regional, state, and national levels. It features a wide array of solo and ensemble categories, covering diverse musical styles and eras, and is adjudicated by professional juries who also provide valuable feedback to participants. The Prizewinners’ Concert is a highlight event held after the state-level competitions, where the best performers present their award-winning pieces to the public.
Yukichio (saxophone, student of Yuriy Broschel) and Peter (piano, student of Oxana Koppers) delivered a stunning rendition of “Brasileira” from Scaramouche by Darius Milhaud during the Prizewinner’s Concert, leaving a lasting impression with their artistry and skill.
This memorable event was a proud moment for the entire ISR Family and stands as a testament to the remarkable achievements Yukichio and Peter, who truly embody our ISR motto: “It’s cool to be good!”























