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Artist: Ashmie Ambani, 8th Grade, International School
Ashmie would like to dedicate this picture to all of the amazing PTSA moms in appreciation of everything you do.
Want to have your art showcased in the Monday Messenger? Monday Messenger Art Submission
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Please Note: This newsletter may be truncated by your email program.
Please click VIEW ENTIRE MESSAGE at the bottom of the newsletter to read it in full.
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NO SCHOOL:
THIS MONDAY & TUESDAY,
NOVEMBER 10 & 11
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| | UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS | | |
THIS WEEK:
- Monday, 11/10 • No School
- Tuesday, 11/11 • No School (Veterans Day)
- Tuesday, 11/11 • Reflections Submission Deadline*
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Wednesday, 11/12 • ISPTSA Staff Luncheon (Date Change)
- Wednesday, 11/12, 6:30–7:30 PM • French Exchange Parent Info Night (IS Library)
- Thursday, 11/13 • AMC 10/12 B
- Friday, 11/14 • MOD Pizza Fundraiser*
- Friday, 11/14, 7 PM • Drama Performance: 'Sense and Sensibility'
- Saturday, 11/15, 2 PM & 7 PM • Drama Performances: 'Sense and Sensibility'
NEXT WEEK:
- Tuesday, 11/18, 6:30–7:30 PM • Parent Night for Grade 6
- Tuesday, 11/18, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Wednesday, 11/19 • ISPTSA 11th Grade Staff Luncheon (Date Change & Grade Update)*
- Thursday, 11/20, 7:00 PM • HS Band Concert
- Friday, 11/21 • Ice Skating Fundraiser Begins*
LOOKING AHEAD:
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Thursday, 11/27–Friday, 11/28 • No School (Thanksgiving)
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Monday, 12/1 • Poinsettias Pickup
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Wednesday, 12/3, 7 PM • HS Orchestra Concert
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Thursday, 12/4, 7 PM • MS Orchestra Concert
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Monday, 12/8 • ISPTSA Winter Market
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Tuesday, 12/9, 7 PM • MS Choir Concert
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Wednesday, 12/10 • ISPTSA 10th Grade Staff Luncheon (Grade Update)
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Wednesday, 12/10, 7 PM • HS Choir Concert
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Thursday, 12/11, 7 PM • Band Concert
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Saturday, 12/13, 8–10 PM • HS Winter Formal/Homecoming Dance
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Monday, 12/22–Friday, 1/2 • No School (Winter Break)
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Friday, 1/9 • ISPTSA S2 Grant Application Deadline
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Monday, 1/19 • Ice Skating Fundraiser Ends*
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Wednesday, 1/21, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Thursday, 1/22 • AMC 8 Registration Deadline
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Wednesday, 1/28 • AMC 8
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Tuesday, 2/10, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Tuesday, 3/10, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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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.
| | Have a shout-out or thank-you to share? Anyone in our community can submit one by emailing news@isptsa.org. | | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PTSA NEWS | | |
ATTENTION: 11TH GRADE PARENTS!
It's Fall Football Season and a time to say thank you to our teachers and staff. Please use the following link to contribute to the Feast & Football Buffet Staff Appreciation Luncheon on Wednesday, November 19.
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COMMUNICATIONS SURVEY!
Help us help you. Our crack team of reporters, communications specialists and parents are looking for feedback from you about how you receive communications from the school. Let us know what you're looking for when you look for International School news and what's the best way to deliver that news to you.
Here's our survey
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MOD PIZZA FUNDRAISER FOR CLASS OF 2026
Support the International School Class of 2026 with a "MOD FUNDRAISING" event on THIS Friday, November 14.
Visit the MOD Pizza at 317 Bellevue Way NE in Bellevue on that day, and MOD will donate 25% of your food and beverage bill to our senior class to help fund graduation activities.
How to Participate
There are two ways to ensure the Class of 2026 receives credit for your order:
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In-Person (Dine-in or Takeout): You must bring in the fundraiser flyer.
- English Flyer
- Spanish Flyer
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Online (App or Website): If ordering for takeout or delivery through the MOD app or website , you must use the fundraiser code MODGIVES25.
Important Details
Please note that this offer is only valid on November 14, and only at the Bellevue Way NE location. The 25% donation applies to food and beverage sales; it excludes tax, gift cards, and retail sales.
Important: The offer is void if the flyer is distributed in or near the restaurant.
Questions? Contact SeniorFundraising@isptsa.org.
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CLAIM YOUR DISHES!
Hello Parents,
These plates and platters were left behind after the PTSA 9th grade hosted Staff Lunch. Look familiar?
| | Please pick them up as soon as possible in the front office. Any unclaimed dishes will be donated. | | |
SKATE FOR ISPTSA: A FUN FUNDRAISER AT THE BELLEVUE ICE RINK
The Bellevue Downtown Association is offering a fantastic and easy fundraising opportunity for International School at the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink.
From November 21, to January 19, our PTSA will receive $3 for every student, parent, or staff member who visits the rink and mentions our school.
This is a simple way to raise funds for our programs just by having fun!
How It Works
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Go Skating: Visit the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink at Bellevue Downtown Park (south of Bellevue Square) anytime between November 21 and January 19.
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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.
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That's It! Our PTSA will automatically get credit for your visit.
Important Note: The $3 donation can only be 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 simple but critical step!
You can buy tickets online to secure your spot at the region's largest covered, open-air ice skating experience. See the flyer here.
We hope all our Titan families can enjoy the ice this season and support our school at the same time!
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REFLECTIONS 2025 DUE NOVEMBER 11
The 2025 Reflections deadline is THIS Tuesday, November 11.This year's theme is: “I belong!”
Reflections is a national PTA arts program that gives students an opportunity to create original works of art in the categories of visual art, music, photography, film, dance, or literature. This year's theme invites students to express where they feel connection, identity, and community.
Submissions must be submitted via the 2025 International School Reflections Entry Form.
Full rules and category information can be found here.
Let's begin creating!
Questions? Email VPOutreach@isptsa.org.
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WHAT MAKES THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL EXPERIENCE POSSIBLE?
When you think of the International School, what comes to mind?
Perhaps it’s the collaboration and breakthrough moments on a student retreat. Or the deep, hands-on learning during Focus Week. Maybe it's the new equipment a teacher brought into the classroom thanks to a PTSA grant, or the visiting artist who inspired a room full of students.
These moments don't just happen. They are made possible by our community’s support.
Our 'Raise the Torch' fundraiser is what fuels these programs. So far, we have raised $15,000 toward our $30,000 goal. We are grateful, but we need your help to ensure these uniquely IS experiences continue for every student.
Support Our Students. Donate Today! Your tax-deductible contribution directly supports the programs that make our school so special. Many employers will even match your gift!
Questions? Visit our website or contact us at Board@isptsa.org.
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YOU BELONG!
Being a part of the ISPTSA is the best way to stay connected and make a difference at International School. Your membership is a powerful way to:
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STAY CONNECTED with our school community.
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SUPPORT our students and staff.
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SHAPE the programs that help our school thrive.
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HAVE A VOICE in important decisions.
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ACCESS valuable resources and discounts.
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COLLABORATE with other families who care.
Join today and be a vital part of our community!
Questions? Contact membership@isptsa.org.
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SHAPE OUR STUDENTS' EXPERIENCE - WE'LL SHOW YOU HOW
Every amazing program, teacher grant, and community event our PTSA provides is powered by one thing: successful fundraising. We are looking for a creative and passionate leader to step into the vital role of VP of Fundraising for the 2025-2026 school year.
This isn't just about managing logistics; it's about making possible the experiences that define our school.
Best of all, you are not alone. This role is strongly supported by a dedicated committee of past VPs who know the ropes and are committed to your success. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to fundraising, you'll have all the guidance you need. This role can also be shared by two people!
If you're interested in making a tangible, positive impact on our community, please reach out to president@isptsa.org to learn more. We'd love to chat!
| | BELLEVUE PTSA COUNCIL NEWS | | |
HELP ADVOCATE FOR SCHOOL FUNDING
Bellevue Quality Schools (BQS) is holding its Campaign Kickoff THIS Wednesday, November 12, to support the February 2026 levy renewal. Prop 1 and Prop 2 are renewals of levies that together provide over 24% of the total District budget. Passing them is essential for maintaining many Bellevue programs, including 7-period school days, extensive world language programs, secondary school tutorial, and elementary school art and music.
Join BQS on the 12th to enjoy a free dinner and learn more about why the levies matter, and what community members can do to help the campaign. Grab the talented networkers, fundraisers, social media posters, and volunteer mobilizers that you know, and bring them with you! We need our entire community to come together to support the levies and keep Bellevue schools strong.
Please spread widely, and RSVP, to ensure an ample dinner for all attending.
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WA STATE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY UPDATE
WSPTA held its 47th Annual Legislative Assembly on October 18-19. It was an incredible weekend where members from across the state came together to learn, debate, and vote on the new WSPTA legislative positions.
Delegates adopted one new legislative issue, “Restoring Funding for Education and Wrap Around Services,” that will be added to the WSPTA 2025-2026 short-term legislative platform. Delegates also approved two new legislative principles, “Budget, Revenue and Funding – Oppose private school vouchers” and “Health and Well-Being of Children and Youth – Food Insecurity.” One new resolution was approved by delegates, “18.25 Rights and Services for Immigrant Children,” along with two amended resolutions, “2.22 Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies: Use and Safety” and “2.19 LGBTQIA2S+ Safety and Inclusion.” Stay tuned for updated materials on the WSPTA website.
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WSPTA FOCUS DAY ON JANUARY 19: REGISTER TODAY
Join us for Focus Day to “go to bat for kids” on Monday, January 19, 2026, in Olympia. Come advocate to close the funding gaps and ensure financial stability for schools and other vital issues impacting students around the state! Advocacy is a team sport, so build community and network with your fellow WSPTA advocates and leaders. All WSPTA members are welcome. Bring your children to join in the fun!
Register for Focus Day today! The event is free. Sign up for a Capitol tour (limited space available) and box lunches (for an additional charge) when you register.
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WSPTA ESSAY CONTEST
Does your student know someone who inspires them? Have them apply for the WSPTA Essay Contest!
Winners receive recognition at the Student Programs Celebration and record a video reading their essay to the person they wrote about. To learn more or hear the winning essays from years past, visit our website.
| | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWS | | |
DISRUPTION TO SNAP BENEFITS
With the disruption to SNAP food benefits, please do not hesitate to reach out to our counselors or our family engagement specialist if our school can help in any way. Our district also partners with multiple community organizations:
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Bellevue LifeSpring has allocated funds to provide support during this period and will be running a special fundraiser to help families impacted by the SNAP disruptions.
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Renewal Food Bank offers groceries and essential food items for families in need.
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Hopelink supports families with food, housing and other essential services.
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Jubilee REACH runs a grocery program available by referral through our Family Engagement Team.
Counselors: Arty Christianto for Middle School (christiantoa@bsd405.org), Colleen Courtney for High School (courtneyn@bsd405.org)
Family Engagement Specialist: Israel Perez (perezi@bsd405.org)
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AP EXAM PAYMENT DUE NOW!
If you have not yet paid for your AP Exams, please do so today.
To pay, log into TouchBase and select Advanced Placement (AP) Tests.
- All students must click “Buy” for each exam they are taking, even those who receive Free, Reduced, or Scholarship Exams.
- Next, click “Checkout” in the upper right corner. Even if your cart says “$0” after adding your exams, you must still checkout.
- Lastly, click the blue “Checkout” button in the bottom right corner to finalize payment. Even if your cart says “$0” you must complete the checkout process.
Please contact Christy Smith, AP Coordinator, with any questions.
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INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY!!
Volunteers needed in the main office. It’s a great opportunity to be more involved with International and to be on site during the school day.
We depend on our wonderful office volunteers to support our students and staff, and have the following openings:
- Every other Friday, 8:15-10:15 (2 volunteers needed)
- Every other Friday, 10:15-12:15
Please email Christy Smith with your interest.
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NURSE'S CORNER: SAFE WEIGHT CHANGES IN ATHLETICS
We are exploring the topic of safe weight changes in relation to athletic activities. This article provides more details on this subject.
Here are some simple tips for kids and teens to stay healthy:
- Eat a mix of foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats. Try not to skip meals, especially breakfast.
- Move your body every day. Playing sports, running, biking, or even walking are good ways to get at least 60 minutes of activity most days.
- Drink water often to help your body feel good and have energy.
- Don’t try extreme diets or skip lots of calories. Kids and teens need enough food to grow and be strong.
- Get plenty of sleep so your body can grow and recover.
If you have questions about your weight or sports, talk to a parent, coach, school nurse, or doctor for advice that fits you.
If you are a teacher or parent, help kids focus on being healthy and strong, not just on their weight. This helps them feel good about themselves.
Questions? Email Prabina Dahal, IS School Nurse.
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR VISION & HEARING SCREENING
Our school is looking for parent volunteers to assist with the annual student vision and hearing screenings. This is a simple and quick way to make a big difference in our students' day!
We need 4-6 parents to help for approximately one hour. No experience is necessary.
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Date: THIS Friday, November 14
Time: 8:30 AM
If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact our School Nurse, Prabina Dahal.
Thank you for helping to support our school and students!
| | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL CLUB NEWS | | |
TITAN PLAYERS PRESENT: SENSE AND SENSIBILITY
Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility comes to life on stage in this witty and heartfelt adaptation! Follow the Dashwood sisters—sensible Elinor and impulsive Marianne—as they navigate love, loss, and society’s expectations. With sparkling humor, sharp social commentary, and timeless themes of family and resilience, this production captures the elegance and emotion of Austen’s beloved classic.
Tickets may be pre-purchased using THIS LINK for $16 (including fees). Three shows are available:
- Friday, November 14 at 7:00 PM
- Saturday, November 15 at 2:00 PM
- Saturday, November 15 at 7:00 PM
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TITAN ROBOTICS PODCAST, RAFFLE, AND GUEST SPEAKERS
Are you a student or parent interested in STEM? Titan Robotics Club has a podcast for you!
Introducing "Beyond the Bot": where we interview both people in TRC and those working in different STEM fields! Listen in on Spotify to learn about CS, robotics programs at our school, and civil engineering. Follow & keep up with new episodes every month to broaden your horizons!
Also, we're doing a lottery for a FREE, adorable crocheted penguin (our club mascot)! If you send us a screenshot showing you're following, we'll enter your name into the raffle! The winner will be drawn before winter break.
Listen here
Additionally, if you or someone you know may be interested in being a guest speaker, please fill out this form or email trc492@gmail.com. Thank you!
Questions? Email trc492@gmail.com.
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EVENTS CALENDAR:
CULTURAL CALENDAR:
All Month:
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November • Native American Heritage Month
Specific Days:
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Monday, 11/10–Friday, 11/14 • National School Psychology Week
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Tuesday, 11/11 • Veterans Day
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Friday, 11/13 • World Kindness Day
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Friday, 11/14 • America Recycles Day
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Monday, 11/17–Friday, 11/21 • American Education Week
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Wednesday, 11/19 • Education Support Professionals Day
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Thursday, 11/27 • Thanksgiving Day
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Thursday, 11/27 • National Day of Mourning
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Friday, 11/28 • Native American Heritage Day
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Tuesday, 12/2 • National Special Education Day
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Sunday, 12/7 • Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
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Monday, 12/8–Sunday, 12/14 • Computer Science Education Week
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Sunday, 12/14–Monday, 12/22 • Hanukkah
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Tuesday, 12/16–Wednesday, 12/24 • Las Posadas
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Thursday, 12/25 • Christmas Day
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Friday, 12/26–Thursday, 1/1 • Kwanzaa
Click here to view all District calendars.
*More information in the message below
Orange denotes new/updated calendar entries
| | BELLEVUE SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS | | |
BELLEVUE SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR MONICA WEBSTER TO STEP DOWN
The Bellevue School District has announced that School Board Director Monica Webster will be stepping down from her position at the end of November 2025. Director Webster, who has served the Bellevue community with dedication and commitment, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to advocate for students, families, and staff throughout her tenure.
The BSD Board of Directors will follow the district’s established process to fill the upcoming vacancy. Community members interested in serving on the board are encouraged to stay tuned for details on the application process and timeline.
Read the full announcement here.
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BSD NEWS AND EVENTS – OCTOBER 23, 2025
The latest newsletter from Bellevue School District is now available. It features:
- A message from Superintendent Aramaki celebrating district staff and highlighting excellence.
- Important upcoming dates to add to your calendar.
- A current budget update that reflects our district’s financial direction moving forward.
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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