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| | UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS | | |
THIS WEEK:
- Tuesday, 1/13, 6:30 PM • 5th Grade Information Night (IS Gym)*
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Tuesday, 1/13, 6 PM • BSD Levy Info Night (Odle Middle School)*
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Thursday, 1/15, 6 PM • BSD Levy Info Night (Tyee Middle School)*
- Friday, 1/16, 4:30 PM • IS Enrollment Application Window Closes*
NEXT WEEK:
- Monday, 1/19 • No School (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
- Monday, 1/19 • Focus Day 2026 (Olympia)*
- Monday, 1/19 • Ice Skating Fundraiser Ends*
- Wednesday, 1/21, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Wednesday, 1/21, 5 PM • BSD Levy Info Night (Online)*
- Thursday, 1/22 • AMC 8 Registration Deadline
- Friday, 1/23 • ISPTSA S2 Grant Application Deadline (Date Change)*
- Friday, 1/23 • Semester 1 Ends
LOOKING AHEAD:
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Monday, 1/26 • No School
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Wednesday, 1/28 • AMC 8
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Wednesday, 1/28 • ISPTSA General Membership Meeting
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Tuesday, 2/3, 6:30–7:30 PM • MS Parent Info Night
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Tuesday, 2/3–Wednesday, 2/4 • WIDA Testing
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Saturday, 2/7 • HS Eastshore Vocal Solo and Ensemble
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Wednesday, 2/11 • Bite of IS
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Monday, 2/16–Friday, 2/20 • No School (Mid-Winter Break)
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Tuesday, 2/10, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Monday, 2/23–Friday, 2/27 • Tech Week
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Friday, 3/6, 7 PM • Drama Performance
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Saturday, 3/7, 2 PM & 7 PM • Drama Performances
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Tuesday, 3/10, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Wednesday, 3/11 • PTSA 6th Grade Staff Lunch
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Friday, 3/13, 7 PM • Drama Performance
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Saturday, 3/14, 2 PM & 7 PM • Drama Performances
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Wednesday, 3/18, 7 PM • HS Orchestra Concert
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Thursday, 3/19, 7 PM • MS Orchestra Concert
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Monday, 3/23, 7 PM • Band Concert
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Wednesday, 3/25 • SAT Testing
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Wednesday, 3/25 • NHS Blood Drive
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Wednesday, 3/25. 7 PM • Choir Concert
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Thursday, 3/26. 7 PM • Choir Concert
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Friday, 3/27 • No School
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Wednesday, 4/22, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Tuesday, 5/12, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
Click here to view the ISPTSA Calendar, which can be added to your personal Google or Outlook Calendar.
Click here to view the IS Even/Odd Days Calendar for the Year--Subject to change if the schedule does.
Click here to view the District 2025–2026 calendar for families.
*More information in the message below
Orange denotes new/updated calendar entries.
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The following are shout-outs and thank-yous to and from various members of our community.
Have a shout-out or thank-you to share? Anyone in our community can submit one by emailing news@isptsa.org.
| | We are thrilled to welcome Laura Menenberg to International School as our new school nurse! We are so grateful to have her expertise and care available to support the health and well-being of our students. Please join us in giving her a warm welcome as she settles into her new role on campus. | | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PTSA NEWS | | |
LEVIES FUND PROGRAMS AND SERVICES NOT FULLY COVERED BY THE STATE (NEW UPDATES)
Did you know state funding doesn't cover all student needs? Two replacement levies are on the February 10 ballot to bridge the gap. These levies make up 24% of the district's general fund, supporting critical areas like classroom technology, cybersecurity, safety upgrades, and building maintenance. These are not new taxes but renewals of existing support. Learn more about how Propositions 1 and 2 ensure every student has access to safe, engaging learning environments below.
ISPTSA voted to pass a resolution in favor of both Propositions 1 and 2 at the October 29 General Membership Meeting and approved a line item in our budget to donate to Bellevue Quality Schools to help support spreading the word.
BSD District leadership will be hosting levy information nights for the community on the following dates/locations:
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THIS Tuesday, January 13, 6:00 PM - Odle Middle School
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THIS Thursday, January 15, 6:00 PM - Tyee Middle School
- Wednesday, January 21, 5:00 PM - Online (link will be posted at a later date)
Read the latest BSD blog:
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HOW THE LEVIES SUPPORT STUDENT LEARNING
As the February levy renewal approaches, Bellevue School District explains how local levies directly support classrooms, academic programs, technology, safety improvements, and building maintenance. These funds help bridge the gap between state funding and the true cost of educating students. Read the entire article here.
More information is available on the BSD levy renewal web page.
Find out more information from Bellevue Quality Schools, donate, and volunteer to help spread the word here.
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LAST CHANCE: SKATE FOR ISPTSA ENDS JANUARY 19
Time is running out to support International School at the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink! You only have until January 19 to hit the ice and earn money for our school.
For every student, parent, or staff member who visits the rink and mentions our school, the PTSA receives $3. This is a simple and fun way to raise funds for our programs, but the window is closing soon!
How to Participate Before January 19:
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Go Skating: Visit the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink at Bellevue Downtown Park.
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Mention Our School: When you arrive and check in, you must notify the rink staff that you are with International School.
Important Reminder: The $3 donation is only tracked when you notify the staff in person upon arrival. It is not tracked through the online e-ticketing platform, so please don't forget this critical step even if you bought tickets online!
You can buy tickets online to secure your spot at the region's largest covered, open-air ice skating experience. See the flyer here.
Don't miss your final chance to enjoy the region's largest open-air ice skating experience while supporting the ISPTSA.
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INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL @ THE KRAKEN!
The Seattle Kraken are excited to collaborate with the International School PTSA to offer an exclusive opportunity to purchase specialty-priced tickets for select games at Climate Pledge Arena this season!
Two games available - Thursday, January 29 & Sunday, March 15!
Join us in Defending the Deep!
Click here for Tickets: ISPTSA x Seattle Kraken
$2 of each ticket purchased will go to ISPTSA.
Tickets cannot be resold, refunded, or exchanged.
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DEADLINE CHANGED
The new deadline for the Semester 2 Grants application will be Friday, January 23!
We are thrilled to announce that the ISPTSA Grants Committee has awarded $15,762 across 18 new grants for the Semester 1 cycle! Thanks to the generous contributions of our parent community, we are funding a wide range of enhancements that touch every corner of student life at International School.
This cycle, we focused heavily on Arts and Academic Clubs, which combined received over 55% of the funding. Students will see immediate benefits ranging from a new "Big Bucket" Golf set for PE and fresh badminton rackets to custom equipment for the Chess Club and vital registration fees for our Titan Robotics team. We are also supporting long-standing traditions, including a brand-new red carpet for the beloved Snowflake Assembly, ensuring our seniors shine during this annual highlight.
Have an Idea? Apply for Semester 2! Whether it is providing deep, targeted engagement for specific clubs or funding software subscriptions that support whole-school learning, every dollar is going toward enriching the student experience.
If you have an idea that would enhance your classroom, club, or community, we want to hear from you! The Semester 2 Grant Cycle is now open. We encourage all teachers, staff, and student leaders (with a faculty advisor) to start brainstorming now. Whether it is innovative equipment, a unique guest speaker, or materials for a hands-on project, the PTSA is here to help turn your ideas into reality.
Click Here to Apply for Semester 2 Grants
Thank you for making these opportunities possible!
Questions? Email ISPTSA Grants.
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BRING THE AUCTION TO LIFE - WE NEED YOU
The Auction is our biggest fundraiser of the year, and we need your help to make it happen. We are looking for volunteers to lead the charge as Auction Chair or Co-Chairs.
It is a big job, but you won't be doing it alone. You will be supported by past VPs and a committee dedicated to your success. Help us secure the funding that makes our school special.
Ready to make a difference? Contact president@isptsa.org today.
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FOCUS DAY IN OLYMPIA ON JANUARY 19!
Come advocate to close the funding gaps and ensure financial stability for schools and other vital issues that impact students around the state. We need no cuts for kids and a long-term plan to amply fund K-12 moving forward! Register for Focus Day today!
Check out the Focus on Advocacy toolkit for details on how to schedule legislator meetings, how to conduct meetings, a checklist for success, and 2026 legislator meeting talking points.
WSPTA March for K-12 Funding
As part of Focus Day, we are going to march to raise our collective voice for strong school funding!
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Meet: Flag Circle on the sidewalk near the North stairs
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Time: 1:30 PM
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Theme: Kids are an investment, not an expense!
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Signs: Handheld signs encouraged (no sticks allowed inside Capitol). A sign-making table will be available in the Columbia Room during Focus Day.
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Dress Code: Wear your PTA BLUE!
Focus on Advocacy Week: January 26-30
Throughout the week, WSPTA will send Action Alerts to members who have signed up to help. Each Action Alert will provide easily customizable messages that our Action Network system will automatically send to your legislators. It is easy to do and only takes a few minutes. Get ready to participate by signing up for action alerts.
Join the WSPTA Action Network
The WSPTA Action Network is used throughout the legislative session to raise our collective voices and send messages to legislators. When you sign up, you’ll receive timely alerts about legislation, funding, and policy decisions affecting public education and the well-being of children, youth, and families in Washington. It is easy to do and only takes a few minutes. Join our Action Network now!
Be Part of the Conversation by Joining our Digital Space!
The 2026 Washington state legislative session is just around the corner, bringing countless opportunities to go to bat for kids in a challenging advocacy environment.
Advocacy is a team sport—fast-moving, at times complex, and most effective when we work together. That’s why the WSPTA Advocacy Team has launched a new digital space where members can: ask questions, share ideas, and build connections. Sign up today!
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BUILD HEALTHY VIDEO-VIEWING HABITS FOR TEENS
The American Psychological Association released an evidence-based guide and 13-part video series to help parents and caregivers support teens in developing healthy video-viewing habits. The short videos offer practical strategies for families as they navigate the impact of technology on youth mental health and development.
| | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWS | | |
BITE OF IS RETURNS!
We are excited to start planning and announcing the Bite of IS!
Check out the Bite of IS 2024 Video Clip created by Wesley Hung!
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The Bite of IS is a multicultural potluck event held annually in the International School Gym. At the Bite, students, family members, and staff all contribute a culturally significant dish to serve to attendees from their booths. We encourage you to host a booth as an individual, a club, or as families coming together. We are also looking for cultural performances! Students and their guests have the opportunity to perform an act tied to their ethnic background (dance, song, etc.) and can perform solo or in groups for visitors during the event.
This year, proceeds from the Bite of IS will go to Renewal Food Bank, a very local organization supporting our Bellevue families with food assistance and essential hygiene items. Sign-ups for booths and performers are now open, and participation, as well as attendance, is strongly encouraged. The Bite is a great opportunity to embrace the diversity found within our community!
The Bite of IS will take place on Wednesday, February 11, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Sign up today to support Renewal Food Bank and International School!
Questions? Email Dahlia Parekh or Kaiya Jones.
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5TH GRADE INFORMATION NIGHT AND ENROLLMENT APPLICATION INFORMATION
Families who have a 5th grader who would like to attend International School next year need to know that the application window is open NOW and will close on THIS Friday, January 16 at 4:30 PM.
For more information about the process and for the application, please visit: https://www.bsd405.org/enroll/student-placement/apply-to-choice-schools-and-programs
Our 5th Grade Information Night will be THIS Tuesday, January 13 at 6:30 PM in the IS Gym.
Important Note: Current IS families who have a younger sibling MUST submit the application by January 16 in order to be considered for next year.
| | STUDENT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES | | |
STUDENT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
The Bellevue High School Wrestling team is hosting its 3rd annual Wolverine Scuffle tournament and need high school volunteers! Volunteer hours available:
Event: BHS Wolverine Scuffle
Date: THIS Saturday, January 17
Location: Bellevue HS
Available time slots:
9:30-11:30am / 11:30-1:30pm / 1:30-3pm / 3-5pm / 5-7pm
Volunteers will help at the mats or concessions, as needed. No experience required.
Come help support this high energy and fun event that welcomes 350+ athletes from over 20 schools across Western Washington, please email bellevueWolverinewrestling@gmail.com or text Heather Serres at 425-466-2894.
Student Name:
Available volunteer time period
Email address for contact:
Thank you!
BHS Wrestling Booster Club
bellevueWolverinewrestling@gmail.com
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EVENTS CALENDAR:
CULTURAL CALENDAR:
All Month:
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January • Americans of Chinese Descent History Month
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January • School Board Recognition Month
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February • Black History Month
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February • Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month
Specific Days:
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Monday, 1/19 • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
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Tuesday, 1/27 • International Holocaust Remembrance Day
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Sunday, 2/1 • National Freedom Day
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Monday, 2/2–Friday, 2/6 • National School Counseling Week
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Wednesday, 2/4 • Rosa Parks Day
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Saturday, 2/14 • Valentine's Day
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Sunday, 2/15 • Maha Shivaratri
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Monday, 2/16 • Presidents' Day
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Tuesday, 2/17–Thursday 3/19 • Ramadan
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Tuesday, 2/17 • National PTA Founders Day
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Tuesday, 2/17 • Lunar New Year
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Wednesday, 2/18 • Ash Wednesday
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Wednesday, 2/25–Saturday, 2/28 • Ayyám-i-Há or Intercalary Days
Click here to view all District calendars.
*More information in the message below
Orange denotes new/updated calendar entries
| | BELLEVUE SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS | | |
BUILDING THE BELOVED COMMUNITY IN 2026
Superintendent Dr. Kelly Aramaki welcomes families back after winter break with a message focused on belonging, inclusion, and community. The post highlights ongoing district efforts to ensure all students feel safe, valued, and supported in every school environment.
| | Read the entire article here. Questions? Contact BSD. | | |
ATTENDANCE MATTERS: WHEN ARE ABSENCES CONSIDERED SCHOOL AVOIDANCE?
This article explains what school avoidance can look like and why consistent attendance is critical for student success. Families are encouraged to partner with schools early to identify concerns and support students in returning to regular attendance.
Read the entire article here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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BSD NEWS AND EVENTS: DECEMBER 19 E-NEWSLETTER (NEW)
The latest BSD News and Events E-Newsletter is now available! This issue features Superintendent Aramaki's end-of-year message, vital information about the upcoming levy renewals, and health resources for Winter Break. Stay informed about district updates, including the Open Transfer period and opportunities to advocate for public education funding. Read the full newsletter on the district website to ensure you are up to date before 2026 begins!
Read the entire newsletter here. Don't receive the district newsletter? Sign up here! You can see all newsletters here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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WHY JOIN PTSA?
Joining International School PTSA means having a voice in how fundraising dollars are spent and supporting programs like staff appreciation, student clubs, Reflections arts, and community events.
We advocate for families at the school, state, and national levels.
Members also get Washington State and National PTA benefits, including discounts and resources.
Both students and adults can join as full voting members. Join us to stay connected and make a difference in the IS community!
Questions? Contact membership@isptsa.org.
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SMITH BROTHERS FARMS MILK FUND PROGRAMS
Sign up for Smith Brothers Farms Home Grocery Delivery and when you do, you'll receive $15 off your 1st delivery & ISPTSA receives a $50 gift donation from SBF! It's a win-win! You get the iconic Porch Box with your 1st order & it can be filled each week with milk that is 2-days-fresh from the farm, eggs that are 3-days-fresh, fresh produce, almond & oat milk, and hundreds of grocery items that are primarily from local PNW companies!
Delivery is free with just a $10 order & there are no monthly fees, no contract. Give it a try - we get the donation if you get one delivery or remain a customer for years. Questions? Contact Smith Brothers Farms.
| | MASTHEAD / DIRECTORY / LINKS | | Serving International School in the Bellevue School District | |
SUPPORT YOUR PTSA
Donate Anytime!
| | | | Please note that PayPal has transaction fees. | |
Or write your check to the International School PTSA and send it to:
ISPTSA
PO Box 221
Bellevue, WA 98009
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MONDAY MESSENGER
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
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Please submit articles by THURSDAY at 5:00 PM to news@isptsa.org.
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Please limit articles to 600 characters including spaces. If your article is longer than 600 characters, we will edit for length and then attach a document that contains the entire article.
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Please include contact information for questions from readers. If no contact is included, the email used to send the submission will be used.
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We encourage submissions that align with our mission.
- Submissions are subject to review by the ISPTSA and may be accepted, rejected, or edited.
- Please use a separate email for each article submitted.
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Documents in plain text are preferred, however, you are welcome to include an image or icon as a separate attachment—please do not include them in the body of your email or document.
- If you need to link to a registration form or document, send us either the address of the link or a pdf copy of the document.
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If you would like your article to repeat in successive Monday Messenger editions, please resubmit it for each edition in which you would like it to appear. If you do not resubmit it, it will not be republished.
- Note: you will receive an automatic confirmation email response once you submit material to the Monday Messenger.
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International School PTSA
P.O. Box 221
Bellevue, WA 98009-0221
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