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!
Our Student Spotlights
February 14, 2025
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zach
December 13, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Marie
November 29, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ray
November 15, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Max
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!
Our Student Spotlights
February 14, 2025
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zach
December 13, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Marie
November 29, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ray
November 15, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Max
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Kaylee

Spotlight On Our Student Kaylee
This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our eighth-grader, Kaylee, who joined ISR in 2021. Kaylee consistently exemplifies leadership, collaboration, and a dedication to fostering a supportive and collaborative atmosphere for her peers.
Mr. Nisic, Kaylee’s Mathematics teacher nominated her for the Spotlight, saying, “Kaylee is not just a great student she is a remarkable leader and an even better person. Throughout her time in my class, she consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of mathematics, but what truly set her apart was her willingness to help others. Whether explaining a tricky concept to a classmate or offering encouragement during challenging lessons, she always stepped up to support those around her. Her ability to lead with kindness and patience made a significant impact on the classroom dynamic, creating an environment where everyone felt comfortable learning. Kaylee’s dedication to both her own growth and the success of her peers is something I deeply admire, and I have no doubt that her leadership skills will take her far in life”.
Kaylee has also impressed Ms. McGee, her Social Studies teacher, who also works with her in Model UN. Ms. McGee says, “Kaylee is a wonderful student to work with. She not only enjoys our social studies curriculum but also stands out as a curious, engaged, and kind individual. Through class discussions, it’s clear that she is eager to learn across all subjects and continuously seeks ways to improve her skills. In Junior MUN, she actively works on developing her leadership abilities, bringing thoughtfulness and enthusiasm to our research, collaboration, and debates. I am very proud of her!”
Ms. Welz, Kaylee’s German teacher cheerfully adds, “Kaylee is a joy to work with. She is always motivated, focused, prepared for class, and ready to learn. Kaylee has a positive attitude towards learning and demonstrates maturity beyond her years. In class, she regularly participates in discussions, she gets along well with others, and she demonstrates a strong interest in improving her German.”
We are proud to spotlight Kaylee 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
February 14, 2025
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zach
December 13, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Marie
November 29, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ray
November 15, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Max
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Vivian

Spotlight On Our Student Vivian
This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our fifth-grader, Vivian, a student who exemplifies creativity, curiosity, and dedication. Since joining ISR in 2021, Vivian has become a valued member of our school community, known for her enthusiasm for learning and her remarkable talents. Most recently, she was recognized for her exceptional writing skills and intellectual curiosity, earning a Commendation Award for her essay submission to the prestigious John Locke Institute’s Junior Essay Writing Competition.
Vivian was nominated for the Student Spotlight by her second-grade teacher, Ms. Duenas, who worked closely with Vivian on her essay submission. Reflecting on this achievement, Ms. Duenas shares: “I am thrilled to recognize Vivian, a standout writer and curious thinker, for her recent achievement. She received a Commendation Award for her great effort. Vivian has always exhibited a passion for writing, and we are proud to share that she submitted an essay to the prestigious John Locke Institute’s Junior Essay Writing Competition. Her essay, titled ‘Is There Life After Death?’, explores profound philosophical questions with maturity and insight beyond her years.”
Vivian took the initiative to submit her essay independently, with support from Ms. Duenas and Ms. Sayers. Her dedication to both her craft and intellectual growth is truly inspiring and reflects her commitment to excellence.
Vivian’s current homeroom teacher, Ms. Codina, echoes these sentiments, saying:
“Vivian is the kind of student who views every challenge as an opportunity, every new topic as an adventure, and every new skill or task as a chance to exceed expectations. She is witty, often making clever jokes far beyond her years. She is a beautiful writer, creating stories with vivid imagery that transports the reader to new worlds.
She is respectful, kind, and always behaves as a role model to her peers. Her maturity and intelligence are commendable, and I believe Vivian will accomplish great things in her future.”
We wholeheartedly congratulate Vivian on her hard work and encourage her to continue pursuing her passion for writing and critical thinking. Her achievements so far are just the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary journey!
We are proud to spotlight Vivian 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
February 14, 2025
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zach
December 13, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Marie
November 29, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ray
November 15, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Max
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Azra

Spotlight On Our Student Azra
This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our fourth-grader, Azra. Azra joined ISR in 2023 and has continuously made a lasting impression on her teachers with her positive attitude, dedication, and cheerful personality. She is not only a diligent student but also a kind-hearted and creative individual who brings joy to those around her.
Azra was nominated for the Student Spotlight by her music teacher, Ms. Bucher, who shares: “Azra is a student who not only cares about doing her work well and has a love of learning, but she also has a great sense of humor. She is cheerful and friendly and is a great asset to the class. She brings sunshine to every Music lesson!”
Ms. Schultz, Azra’s Art teacher, also has wonderful things to say: “Azra is a very talented young artist. I am astonished by how refined her colors are, how detailed her motifs are, and how creatively she expresses herself. I am very impressed every time Azra completes her artwork beyond the level of her age.”
Azra’s past teachers remember her fondly as well. Her third-grade teacher, Ms. Vittin, says: “Azra is a joyful and happy learner who genuinely enjoys school and spending time with her classmates. She is respectful, kind, and has a big heart. In addition, Azra is a very funny student who enjoys making others laugh with her jokes and funny expressions. She is a joy to have in class, and I could not be prouder that she has been nominated.”
Azra’s second-grade teacher, Ms. Jennings, adds: “Azra always treated other students with respect and empathy and could easily work with any student I paired her with. I know she will accomplish great achievements in the future because of her positive attitude! It was such a privilege to teach her, and I always look back on that year with fond memories”.
We are proud to spotlight Azra 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
February 14, 2025
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zach
December 13, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Marie
November 29, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ray
November 15, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Max
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!
Our Student Spotlights
February 14, 2025
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zach
December 13, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Marie
November 29, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ray
November 15, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Max
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!
Our Student Spotlights
February 14, 2025
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zach
December 13, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Marie
November 29, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ray
November 15, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Max
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!
Our Student Spotlights
February 14, 2025
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zach
December 13, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Marie
November 29, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ray
November 15, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Max
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!
Our Student Spotlights
February 14, 2025
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zach
December 13, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Marie
November 29, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ray
November 15, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Max
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Madeleine

Spotlight On Our Student Madeleine
This week, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our second-grader, Madeleine, who joined ISR’s Kindergarten in 2020 and has since flourished in our Elementary School.
Madeleine was nominated for the Student Spotlight by her homeroom teacher, Ms. Hartmann, who shared glowing praise: “Madeleine is a delightful student who brings a lot of energy and pure sunshine to the classroom. I look forward to seeing her bright smile every morning. Madeleine is an excellent student who shines with smart ideas in class discussions and is never shy about giving an answer or participating in lessons. She is polite, supportive, and friendly to all her classmates. I am so grateful to be Madeleine’s teacher this year and to experience this pure ray of sunshine every day! Madeleine truly deserves the Student Spotlight for representing all of ISR’s core values.”
Mr. Baumann, Madeleine’s sports teacher, also had wonderful things to share: “Madeleine is very motivated in PE lessons. She always does her best and is not afraid to try new sports. Madeleine always has a smile on her face and motivates her classmates with her positive nature”.
Madeleine’s first-grade teacher, Ms. Vosters, remembers her fondly and even wrote a heartfelt poem in her honor:
“Madeleine was in grade 1d.
How lucky I was to have her with me.
She’s calm, helpful, and kind.
A nicer friend you won’t find.
She appreciates all that we do.
Keep shining and we thank you!”
Ms. Morris, who taught Madeleine in Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) last year, added: “Madeleine is an excellent student who marches to the beat of her own drum. She always offers a fresh perspective, and I greatly appreciate her input in class. Madeleine is confident, considerate, and friendly to everyone at school. She is an absolute pleasure to teach!”
Madeleine’s former kindergarten teacher, Ms. Fatscher, fondly recalled her time with Madeleine: “I had Madeleine in KG2C. She is a kind, easy-going student who loves playing with her friends and has a strong moral compass. It’s been such a pleasure to watch her grow and develop her soft yet strong character. She is an excellent choice for the Student Spotlight!”
Madeleine has consistently demonstrated kindness, enthusiasm, and a love for learning. We are incredibly proud to highlight the wonderful impact she has on our school community. Keep up the amazing work, Madeleine!
We are so proud to spotlight Madeleine 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
February 14, 2025
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Zach
December 13, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Marie
November 29, 2024
Student Spotlights: Spotlight On Our Student Ray
November 15, 2024