ISDenver is proud to announce its fourth-ever Head of School Award recipient: Leni Sanderson, a rising 8th grader in our French program. Leni will open the 2025–2026 school year with a speech to the entire community at the annual Cérémonie d'Ouverture on August 20, a tradition reserved for students who exemplify the very best of what it means to be an ISDenver Dragon.

Embodying our values

The Head of School Award recognizes students who demonstrate:

• Academic excellence 
• Global mindedness 
• Respect for self and dignity for others 
• Open-mindedness and principled decision-making 
• A commitment to positively contributing to our community 

“Leni has woven these principles into her ISDenver journey since joining us as a Middle Schooler, embracing every challenge with tenacity and thoughtfulness,” Katie Williams, High School Director (former Middle School Director) observed.

What defines a Dragon?

When asked what she believes sets ISDenver Dragons apart, Leni shared:

"The characteristics that define an ISDenver Dragon are not only the traits we value at ISDenver, but also the willingness to take on any challenge, and to take what they have learned—whether from the classroom or an after-school activity—and use it in real-world situations."

Leni's own Dragon House, Typhon, is named after a fierce Greek mythological creature who battled Zeus. It's a fitting match for someone known for her strength and spirit.

Beyond the classroom

Leni credits two extracurriculars, Cross-country and Track & Field, for shaping her into the leader she is today.

"These two sports not only taught me resilience and to keep moving, but they also have an amazing community—not only with their coaches, but also with the other people on the team."

Her dedication to personal growth and team spirit resonates deeply with what we value at ISDenver.

Making memories

Among her favorite ISDenver moments? The 7th grade Earth Sciences trip exploring the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park. Their stop at the Great Sand Dunes in southern Colorado stood out as a highlight of the trip. 

"It was one of the prettiest places I’ve ever seen, and I had the opportunity to experience it with my friends and classmates."

That shared joy and sense of wonder reflect the kind of learning that lasts far beyond the school year.

A sneak peek of her address

Expect a message of encouragement, curiosity, and connection. Leni will remind us that it’s perfectly okay to be new at something. In fact, we all are. New to this school year, new to routines, new to faces and experiences. And that’s something to embrace.

We owe it to ourselves to try new things, make new friends, and lean into the joy of discovery. 

“I want everyone, especially the new students and faculty, to know that starting a new year can feel overwhelming and that’s okay. You might feel alone at first, but the truth is, everyone around you has felt the same way. We’re all in this together. This is a place where you belong, where you’re supported, and where you’re encouraged to grow.”

As we celebrate Leni’s achievements and prepare to hear her inspiring words on August 20, we invite all parents and caregivers to join our student body, faculty, and staff to be part of this special morning. The Cérémonie d'Ouverture is more than just the start of a new academic year, it’s a celebration of student voice, community spirit, and the values that bind us together. Following extended drop-off, we warmly welcome you to stay for a European-style breakfast and enjoy the connection that defines our ISDenver community. It’s the perfect way to reconnect, reflect, and launch a school year full of promise.

First morning schedule reminders

• Our first day includes “Extended Drop Off.” Parents are welcome to take a little longer and squeeze in extra hugs. Please exit all buildings no later than 8:45.

• ECE families: Please plan to walk your child to class on the first three days - this helps families and teachers meet each other. Classroom teachers will place a unique ID badge on each child’s backpack.

• Connect with parents old and new over coffee and charcuterie. (8:15 - 9:45)  Under the library tent. No children, please. Parents can listen to the Cérémonie d'Ouverture program from the tent, and we’ll ask you to kindly pause conversations so that everyone can hear.

• Catch the Cérémonie d'Ouverture (~9:00 - 9:15) All learners, teachers, and staff will assemble together on campus for a special bell ceremony and to hear year-opening remarks from our 8th-grade recipient of the Head of School Award this year, Leni Sanderson!