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NO SCHOOL
THIS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27
AND
THIS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
| | UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS | | |
THIS WEEK:
- Thursday, 11/27–Friday, 11/28 • No School (Thanksgiving)
NEXT WEEK:
- Monday, 12/1 • Poinsettias Pickup
- Wednesday, 12/3, 7 PM • HS Orchestra Concert (PAC)
- Thursday, 12/4, 7 PM • MS Orchestra Concert (PAC)
- Friday, 12/5, 7–8 PM • MS Social
LOOKING AHEAD:
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Monday, 12/8, 6:30–8:30 PM • ISPTSA Winter Market (IS Commons)
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Tuesday, 12/9, 7 PM • MS Choir Concert (PAC)
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Wednesday, 12/10 • ISPTSA 10th Grade Staff Luncheon
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Wednesday, 12/10, 7 PM • HS Choir Concert (PAC)
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Thursday, 12/11, 7 PM • MS Band Concert (PAC)
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Saturday, 12/13, 8–10 PM • HS Winter Formal/Homecoming Dance
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Thursday, 12/18, After School • Drama Musical Auditions
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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.
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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.
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A huge thank-you to every family who contributed delicious food and supplies for the 11th Grade Staff Appreciation Luncheon on Wednesday, November 19. Your generosity made this meal truly amazing, and our staff felt so celebrated! There was so much food that a second lunch was planned for Thursday!
Thank you to: Bella Chan, Melissa Richardson, Richard Kwun, Jenny Lin (Max Lin), Wendy Wilson, Yepi Zhao, Cindy Bay, Meechee Kim, Jessica Holloway, Chandani Nanayakkara, Qiang Zeng, Shaimaa Aly, Elena Dournova, Melissa Odegaard, Bonnie Lau, Deepthi Vidyadharan, Betty Nhan, Rina Vasudeva, Sylvie Sanguin, Carrie Zhang, Lita Lilia, and everyone else that donated.
| | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PTSA NEWS | | |
ISPTSA ANNUAL WINTER MARKET
The ISPTSA would like to invite you to join us for the Annual ISPTSA Winter Market!
When: Monday, December 8, 6:30–8:30 PM
Where: IS Commons
Cost: Entry is free, vendors sell goods
Table reservation deadline for vendors: Friday, December 5
Let's celebrate winter, winter holidays, and our international community with a European-style Winter Market. Come to sell or shop - or both!
Vendors
Calling all - Crafters! Bakers! Artists! Entrepreneurs!
This is your chance to showcase your creative and business skills while earning funds for the holidays or for your student club.
Booths will cost:
$20 for Students, Staff, & Student Clubs
$25 for IS Families/Alumni
$50 for Outside Vendors & Community Members & Other BSD Members
Tables are 6 feet. Electricity will be provided upon request. Tables are limited. Reservations will not be complete until payment is received. See "Pay for Table" link.
Pay for Table!
Need ideas? Homemade ornaments, jewelry, cards, baked goods, home decorations, useful gadgets, art, keychains, cooking mixes, knitting, coffee cozies, candles, snacks, clothing, treasure boxes, and more!
Table Ideas
Guests
Admission is free. All students, staff, families, and community members are welcome. Please share with your friends, family, and community groups.
Musicians Wanted and Volunteers Needed
Perform at the Winter Market for free. From soloists playing holiday classics to garage bands - we want to see you perform! Classic, Rock: all genres welcome.
We're also looking for volunteers to help with set up, clean up, and general volunteers. Email procurement@isptsa.org for more info or to volunteer.
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HELP US DELIVER HOLIDAY CHEER
We’re excited to share that the Senior Poinsettia Fundraiser was a huge success, 500+ pieces sold! Your participation, donations, and enthusiasm made this possible, and we are so grateful.
Now we need a few extra hands to help make the delivery day run smoothly.
On Monday, December 1, we’ll be delivering poinsettias, wreaths, and garlands, and we’re looking for volunteers to assist with sorting and distributing orders.
If you’re available and willing to help, please sign up below and join us in spreading some holiday cheer!
Sign-Up Here
Thank you again for your continued support. We couldn’t do this without our amazing community!
Questions? Contact SeniorFundraising@isptsa.org.
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SEE'S CANDIES HOLIDAY FUNDRAISER FOR CLASS OF 2026
Love chocolates? 2 weeks left to get treats and support our Class of 2026!
Online store is open until Friday, December 5.
Great gift for family, friends, teachers, coworkers, neighbors, coaches, and you!
Purchase and ship directly to your recipients.
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Please share the link. Your purchases help fund the grad activities that celebrate our seniors and honor the staff who have supported them through the years!
- Free shipping on orders over $75!
- 50% (!) will be donated when you buy Festive Ornaments Box or Santa's Helpers Box
- 20% for others
Questions? Contact SeniorFundraising@isptsa.org.
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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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3 REASONS TO SUPPORT 'RAISE THE TORCH' TODAY
We are currently at 50% of our fundraising goal ($15,000 raised of $30,000 needed). We need our community to come together to help us reach the top!
Why donate to the 'Raise the Torch' campaign?
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It’s Direct: Your money goes straight to programs like Focus Week, retreats, and classroom grants.
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It’s Essential: These unique IS experiences rely entirely on community support.
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It’s Powerful: Many employers match gifts, instantly doubling your contribution.
Help us keep the International School unique, vibrant, and fully funded.
| Questions? Email us at Board@isptsa.org. | |
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 | | |
STUDENT-LED REGIONAL TOWN HALL ON EDUCATION FUNDING: ADVOCATE FOR OUR FUTURE
Bellevue families, educators, and community members are invited to come together for a powerful evening focused on the future of our schools. As Washington State continues to fall short of fully funding K–12 education, our students feel the impact of these gaps every day. This Regional Town Hall on Education Funding is our opportunity to show up, learn, and advocate for the equitable, sustainable support our students deserve.
This event will be student-led, centering the voices of students from across our region as they share personal stories about how funding impacts their learning and opportunities.
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When: Wednesday, January 7 | 7:00–9:00 PM
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Where: Newport High School Gymnasium (4333 Factoria Blvd SE, Bellevue, WA 98006)
Submit Your Questions for Legislators The program will feature a Q&A Forum with regional state legislators. We invite you to submit questions in advance to help elevate the issues affecting our schools. Click here to submit Community Questions
Calling Student Volunteers! We are recruiting student volunteers to support the event, including welcoming attendees, moderating questions, sharing stories, and social media outreach. Volunteers can earn community service hours.
Questions or wish to volunteer? Email advocacy@bellevueptsacouncil.com
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HELP BELLEVUE LIFESPRING FEED LOCAL STUDENTS
More than 25% of Bellevue students, over 4,750, qualify for SNAP benefits. They did not receive their regular SNAP benefits this month, due to the government shutdown and it will take time to get everything up and running again.
Bellevue Lifespring is asking our community to help them fill the gap. Here's how you can help (quoting from an email from Jenna Fischer, Lifespring Executive Director):
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Give $40 today: $40 provides a grocery store food voucher to feed a child for a week offering families the dignity to choose food that best meets their nutritional needs and cultural preferences. It isn't simply a donation, it's a lifeline.
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Set up a recurring gift: A $40 monthly donation sustains nutritional support for a child throughout the year.
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Spread the word: Forward this urgent message. Please share with your friends and family why it's crucial to join this community effort.
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Contribute Food: Drive change by donating to our friends at Renewal Food Bank or Hopelink Bellevue Market and Service Center.
Every dollar you invest will help provide nutrition support for children right here in Bellevue. Use this link to donate: https://www.bellevuelifespring.org/give-nutrition-support/
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DEVELOPING HEALTHY VIDEO-VIEWING HABITS
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.
Questions? Email info@PTA.org.
| | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWS | |
NURSE'S CORNER: NAVIGATING COLD & FLU SEASON
Children commonly experience colds, also known as upper respiratory infections, especially in their first two years when they may have 8 to 10 colds. Those in childcare or with school-age siblings often catch even more, as colds spread easily through close contact. These infections are caused by viruses that spread via coughs, sneezes, or touching contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, low fever, sore throat, cough, fussiness, and swollen neck glands, usually resolving within 7 to 10 days. Infants under 3 months require prompt medical attention at any sign of illness, while older children should see a doctor if they have trouble breathing, persistent symptoms, high fever, or unusual behavior. There is no cure for colds, so treatment focuses on comfort, rest, and fluids. Prevention includes keeping young babies away from sick individuals, teaching children to cough or sneeze into their elbow or a tissue, frequent handwashing to reduce virus spread, and getting flu vaccines.
Please follow these instructions to manage these respiratory symptoms at home.
Please do not give medications unnecessarily to your child. Always let the school nurse know if your child needs medication at school.
Questions? Email IS School Nurse Prabina Dahal, ARNP, DNP, CPNP-PC.
| | STUDENT CLUBS AND TEAMS NEWS | | |
SUPPORT BHS WRESTLING: CHIPOTLE FUNDRAISER
Since International School is a choice school, our students participate in athletics at comprehensive high schools like Bellevue High. Please support our student wrestlers by grabbing dinner for the BHS Wrestling Booster Club fundraiser!
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When: Sunday, December 7, 5:00–9:00 PM
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Where: Chipotle (10503 NE 4th St, Bellevue)
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Cause: 25% of sales are donated to the team.
To Order: Show the flyer in-store or order online for pickup using code AAEX273. (Delivery and gift cards do not qualify ).
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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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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 | | |
PARENTS & GUARDIANS NEEDED FOR 2026 DAC
BSD is seeking parent and guardian volunteers to serve on the 2026 Disciplinary Appeal Council, which reviews final appeals on student disciplinary cases. The Council meets 6–10 times a year for 90 minutes to 2 hours. Applicants should be fair, confidential, and flexible with scheduling. Apply by January 16. Read the entire article here. Questions? Email niemelam@bsd405.org.
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RESOURCES AND SUPPORT FOR BSD FAMILIES AND COMMUNITY
BSD has shared a comprehensive collection of resources designed to support families and the broader community. These include information on mental health services, academic help, food and housing support, and emergency assistance. Families are encouraged to visit the resource page to explore the full list of programs and find the support that best meets their needs.
Read the entire article here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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SCHOOL BOARD VACANCY AND NOMINATION PROCESS FOR DISTRICT 4
The Bellevue School District has announced a vacancy on the School Board for District 4. Community members are invited to participate in the nomination process to help identify qualified candidates who are committed to serving BSD students and families. Details about eligibility, timelines, and how to submit nominations are available on the district website. Your participation supports strong leadership for our schools.
Read the entire article here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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OPEN TRANSFER, CHOICE SCHOOLS, AND LANGUAGE PROGRAMS APPLICATION PERIOD COMING SOON
The district will soon begin accepting applications for Open Transfer, Choice Schools, and Language Programs. Families interested in exploring specialized learning pathways or requesting a school transfer should review the application timelines and requirements. BSD recommends preparing any needed documents early to ensure a smooth submission once the window opens.
REMINDER: Siblings of current IS students must still apply for International School through the lottery.
Read the entire article here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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SAVE THE DATE: BSD OPEN HOUSES AND INFORMATION NIGHTS
BSD will host Open Houses and Information Nights for families to learn about schools, programs, and enrollment options. Check the district website for a full schedule of dates, times, and locations and to find any registration or RSVP details. These events are a great opportunity to meet school staff, tour buildings, and get answers to your questions. Contact your school or visit the BSD news page for more information.
Read the entire article here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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EVERY DAY MATTERS!
BSD reminds families that consistent attendance is one of the most important factors in student success. The district encourages students to be present every day, unless they are ill, to stay engaged with their learning and connected to their school community. Families can find tips and guidance on building strong attendance habits through district attendance resources.
Read the entire article here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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BSD NEWS AND EVENTS – NOVEMBER 13, 2025
The November 13 edition of the BSD e-newsletter highlights key updates and celebrations from across the district. Families can view upcoming events, helpful resources, and stories showcasing student achievements. The district encourages all families to review the newsletter to stay informed and connected throughout the school year.
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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WINTER VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE REGISTRATION OPEN
Ready for winter sports? Join the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue Winter Volleyball League! This co-ed league is perfect for busy families. It is a game-only league with no mid-week practices.
All games are played on Sundays at Hidden Valley Fieldhouse beginning January 25. Divisions are available for grades 4-10. The cost is $150 per player.
Register Here
Questions? Contact the Athletics Department at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue.
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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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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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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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