Working with heart, energy, and expertise: Goodbye, dear Janine Küster!

With deep gratitude and many heartfelt words, Steinmühle bids farewell to a valued colleague: Janine Küster, principal of the Steinmühle Bilingual Elementary School. Her dedication and passion for the school have left a lasting impression—on both the students and the faculty.

In the run-up to the official farewell ceremony, the elementary school children said, “Goodbye, Janine!” The girls and boys lined up to form a guard of honor as their teacher walked down the stairs. Many of them reached out toward her, trying to shake her hand; some managed to give her a hug or take a selfie, and a few had tears rolling down their cheeks. Some mothers comforted their children. Man, was that hard! A few parents also expressed their appreciation in person. And it became clear: a very beloved teacher is leaving.

Janine Küster, born in 1992, took on the demanding role of director at a remarkably young age. After completing her teaching internship, she began working at Steinmühle, with only a stint abroad in the U.S. in between, which further improved her already excellent English skills.

 

Shaped and established a bilingual focus

From the very beginning—the 2019–20 school year—she poured her heart and soul into establishing and developing the Steinmühle Bilingual Elementary School. She taught German, math, and music with great enthusiasm and supported the students not only academically but also personally. Her commitment extended far beyond the classroom: She played a key role in shaping and establishing the school’s bilingual program.

Janine Küster also found happiness in her personal life at Steinmühle. She started a family with Fabian Küster, a member of the school’s IT team. About two and a half years ago, she became the mother of her son Lenny, which marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

 

A difficult step

As someone who sets high standards for herself, Janine Küster found it increasingly difficult to balance both roles—principal of an elementary school and mother. It was therefore with a very heavy heart that she decided to step down from her roles as a teacher and principal. Her colleagues, as well as parents, deeply regret her departure and bid her farewell with warm words, affectionate hugs, and the occasional gift.

 

Thanks and Appreciation

At the farewell party held in the elementary school classrooms, Janine Küster thanked everyone who had helped her over the years with advice and support. She shared examples of particularly funny and memorable moments, explained her decision—which she said she made with mixed feelings—and revealed that the Küsters’ family planning isn’t quite finished yet.

Principal Björn Gemmer, Managing Director Dirk Konnertz, and former principal Bernd Holly, among others, expressed their appreciation for her work in brief remarks. They mentioned that the Steinmühle Bilingual Elementary School—which had been established thanks to the initiative of school association chairman Egon Vaupel—had been significantly shaped and influenced by Janine Küster. The group then raised their glasses together to toast the future and proceeded to enjoy the buffet.

 

Looking forward to digging up the time capsule

Steinmühle would like to thank Janine Küster for her tireless work, her energy, and her warm personality. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors—both professionally and personally!

Janine Küster is already looking forward to Steinmühle’s high school graduation ceremony in 7 years. That’s when she plans to dig up the time capsule she once buried on the Steinmühle grounds with “her” children.

 

Words that linger:

“An emotional moment. It was a difficult decision for me. It’s not easy for me to say goodbye” (Janine Küster)

“Working with Hannah (Achenbach) and Lori (Lorraine Herrmann) has been a truly enriching experience for me. We planned, ate, and organized” (Janine Küster)

“Things went pretty well for you today” (A student, speaking to Janine Küster shortly after the bilingual elementary school opened)

“We’ve seen it: She’s energetic, she knows her stuff, and she’s not afraid to take on a challenge. You didn’t just combine the Hessian curriculum and the Cambridge curriculum—you also overcame conflicts and challenges” (Björn Gemmer, principal)

“The Bilingual Elementary School is your brainchild. You have played a crucial role in getting us to where we are today” (Dirk Konnertz, Managing Director)

“You left your heart and tears at school” (Bernd Holly, former principal)

“You’ve accomplished a lot here. You’ll always be a part of us” (Lori Herrmann, former assistant principal of the Bilingual Elementary School) Angela Heinemann