IS Monday Messenger 11-3-25

November 3, 2025

MONDAY MESSENGER

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UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS

THIS WEEK:

Tuesday, 11/4, 6:30–7:30 PM • Parent Night for Grades 9 & 10
Wednesday, 11/5, 2 PM • AMC 10/12 A*
Thursday, 11/6, 6:30–7:30 PM • Parent Night for Grade 11
Thursday, 11/6, 8 PM • 11th Grade Parent Social (Bellevue Brewing Company, Immediately Following Parent Meeting)
Friday, 11/7 • AMC 10/12 B Registration Deadline*
Friday, 11/7 • Poinsettias Deadline (New Date)*

NEXT WEEK:

Monday, 11/10 • No School
Tuesday, 11/11 • No School (Veterans Day)
Tuesday, 11/11 • Reflections Submission Deadline*
Wednesday, 11/12 • ISPTSA Staff Luncheon
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"

LOOKING AHEAD:

Tuesday, 11/18, 6:30–7:30 PM • Parent Night for Grade 6
Tuesday, 11/18, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
Thursday, 11/20, 7:00 PM • HS Band Concert
Friday, 11/21 • Ice Skating Fundraiser Begins*
Thursday, 11/27–Friday, 11/28 • No School (Thanksgiving)
Monday, 12/1 • Poinsettias Pickup*
Wednesday, 12/3, 7 PM • HS Orchestra Concert
Thursday, 12/4, 7 PM • MS Orchestra Concert
Monday, 12/8 • ISPTSA Winter Market
Tuesday, 12/9, 7 PM • MS Choir Concert
Wednesday, 12/10 • ISPTSA Staff Luncheon
Wednesday, 12/10, 7 PM • HS Choir Concert
Thursday, 12/11, 7 PM • Band Concert
Saturday, 12/13, 8–10 PM • TOLO
Monday, 12/22–Friday, 1/2 • No School (Winter Break)
Friday, 1/9 • ISPTSA S2 Grant Application Deadline
Monday, 1/19 • Ice Skating Fundraiser Ends*
Wednesday, 1/21, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
Thursday, 1/22 • AMC 8 Registration Deadline*
Wednesday, 1/28 • AMC 8*
Tuesday, 2/10, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
Tuesday, 3/10, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
Wednesday, 4/22, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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.

SHOUT-OUTS!

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.

Thank you, ISPTSA, for directly fueling our students' creativity and innovation through the generous donation of $582 to the MakerSpace. We purchased essential supplies including 3D printer filament, poster printer ink, paper rolls, and glue tubes.

A huge shout-out to our very own International School Alumna McKenzie Toomey!

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PTSA NEWS

YOU STILL HAVE TIME! SENIOR FUNDRAISER DEADLINE EXTENDED!

Good news! If you missed the deadline, you’re in luck. The International School Senior Class of 2026 has extended its annual holiday fundraiser!

You now have until THIS Friday, November 7, to order festive poinsettias, wreaths, and garlands from Squak Mountain Nursery.

This is a cherished IS tradition and a wonderful way for our community to support the Class of 2026. All proceeds go directly to funding senior celebrations and graduation activities.

Don't miss this new deadline!

Poinsettias (red, pink, or white) – $25 (incl. tax)
Wreaths (24" Noble mix) – $35 (incl. tax)
Cedar Garland (25 ft) – $45 (incl. tax)

Key Dates:

NEW Order Deadline: THIS Friday, November 7
Pickup: Monday, December 1 at International School

Order now on the PTSA Website: Holiday Fundraiser

Your support helps create unforgettable memories for our seniors. Thank you, IS families, for keeping this tradition strong!

Questions? Contact SeniorFundraising@isptsa.org.

MOD PIZZA FUNDRAISER FOR CLASS OF 2026

Support the International School Class of 2026 with a "MOD FUNDRAISING" event on 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:

In-Person (Dine-in or Takeout): You must bring in the fundraiser flyer.
English Flyer
Spanish Flyer
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.

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

Go Skating: Visit the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink at Bellevue Downtown Park (south of Bellevue Square) anytime between November 21 and January 19.
Mention Our School: When you arrive and check in, you must notify the rink staff that you are with International School.
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!

THE 2025–2026 ISPTSA DIRECTORY IS NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE VIA DIRECTORYSPOT!

This year's directory is now live! Download the app, available for iPhones and Android devices, and you will always have the directory with you. You can also access the directory from your computer at DirectorySpot.net (option to self-print a copy of the directory using downloadable PDFs). The website and app have different ways of viewing the information. Be sure to explore both to see all the options. Don't forget that you have to be in the directory to access the directory! Use the email address you gave to the school to log in. Please see this page for more details on how to gain access.

**Please note: If you OPTED OUT of directory access during school registration, you will NOT be listed in the directory and also will NOT receive access to the directory. Please contact us if you'd like to opt in.**

DirectorySpot is paid for by ISPTSA members through their membership fees and donations. If you have not joined the ISPTSA and are enjoying the use of the directory, please consider joining and supporting this program as well as many others the ISPTSA provides.

Have questions or need help? Check out the FAQ or Email VPCommunications@isptsa.org.

REFLECTIONS 2025 DUE NOVEMBER 11

The 2025 Reflections deadline is 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.

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.

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:

STAY CONNECTED with our school community.
SUPPORT our students and staff.
SHAPE the programs that help our school thrive.
HAVE A VOICE in important decisions.
ACCESS valuable resources and discounts.
COLLABORATE with other families who care.

Join today and be a vital part of our community!

Questions? Contact membership@isptsa.org.

WHAT DOES YOUR FAMILY CELEBRATE?

The BSD Cultural Calendar is full of important observances. To give our community a deeper understanding, we are looking for your stories! What does a particular holiday or event mean to your family? How do you celebrate?

For full submission guidelines, please visit our website. All articles must align with all BSD and PTSA policies. You can find the list of observances on the BSD Cultural Calendar. Please note that all submissions may be edited for clarity, length, and to meet publication guidelines. We look forward to receiving your stories at news@isptsa.org!

JOIN THE ISPTSA BOARD FOR THE 2025–2026 SCHOOL YEAR!

We’re still looking for one or more VPs of Fundraising to complete our ISPTSA board for the 2025–2026 school year. This role will be strongly supported by a committee filled with past VP's of Fundraising and is a great opportunity to support our school community and help make a positive impact.

If you're interested or would like to learn more, please reach out to president@isptsa.org. We’d love to have you join us!

BELLEVUE PTSA COUNCIL NEWS

VOTE!

Ballots must be turned in by THIS Tuesday, November 4! Here’s what you need to know about Bellevue School Board races and how to watch the candidate forum.

District 5: Jane Aras is running unopposed.

District 3: Tracy Mayclin is running unopposed. Marta Trilles remains on the ballot but has stepped down and endorsed Tracy.

Council hosted a Candidate Forum on September 30 — you can watch the recording here.

Remember to vote! Ballots for the November election were mailed in October — make sure your voice is heard in shaping the future of our schools.

Questions? Email advocacy@bellevueptsacouncil.com.

OTHER LOCAL PTA NEWS

NEWPORT HIGH SCHOOL PTSA 2025 SKI SWAP

Get your family ready for the snow and save big!

The 39th Annual Newport Ski Swap returns November 8–9 with Seattle’s largest and longest-running winter gear event. Shop 10,000+ new and gently used skis, snowboards, boots, and apparel at unbeatable prices. Shop retail vendors for new gear too!

SELL: Clear out your garage by selling your gear (pre-register items online)
SAVE: Score incredible deals on new and gently-used gear

Check out the flyer here.

Visit www.newportskiswap.com for details and registration.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWS

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.

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.

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.

DON'T FORGET TO ORDER YOUR YEARBOOK!

SECURE YOUR 240 page full color YEARBOOK! Buy now in TouchBase for $50. Avoid the panic of realizing you didn’t order one! Check Payment History in TouchBase to see if you already purchased a book.

Questions? Teams chat Jill Follett, Yearbook Advisor.

LOST AND FOUND

Please check the Lost and Found for your awesome sweaters, jacket, pants, lunch bags, water bottles etc. There’s also some jewelry, AirPods, camera and even Invisaligns in the office! We will donate all unclaimed items THIS Monday, November 3.

Questions? Email Christine Smith.

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.

Date: 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 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.

ISPTSA FINANCE CLUB

The ISPTSA Finance Club is planning on hosting a textbook resale event, where students can both sell old (or new!) textbooks and other academic materials and buy them for a much cheaper price. This reduces waste and is a cost-friendly solution to help your child flourish academically.

We implore you to fill out this interest form on behalf of your child or ask your child to fill it out themselves:

Old Textbook Re-Sale Interest Form – Fill out form

If you have any questions, please contact Geneva Kim.

The Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society is hosting the upcoming American Mathematics Competitions (AMC). All interested students are encouraged to register.

All tests will be administered in the library. The cost to register is $5. Participants are required to register and pay online via TouchBase before arriving at the testing center. Please be aware that there are no refunds for no-shows.

Competition Dates and Deadlines:

AMC 10/12 A
Test Date: THIS Wednesday, November 5, at 2 PM
Registration Deadline: Closed
AMC 10/12 B
Test Date: Thursday, November 13, at 4 PM
Registration Deadline: Friday, November 7
AMC 8
Test Date: Wednesday, January 28, at 2 PM
Registration Deadline: Thursday, January 22

Check out the flyer here. For any questions, please contact chum@bsd405.org.

STUDENT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

VOLUNTEER AT CHERRY CREST ELEMENTARY

What: Cherry Crest Engineering Night High School/Middle School volunteers needed!

When: Friday, November 14 at 5 PM – 7:45 PM

Who: All BSD high school and middle school students are invited to volunteer and help out!

Volunteer hours available!

No experience required
Please arrive by 5 PM for check-in and help with setup.
Please specify the time frame you are able to help out if you need to leave early.

Where: 12400 NE 32nd St, Bellevue, WA 98005

Sign-up here

Questions? Email: cherrycrestattendance@bsd405.org

BSD CALENDARS

EVENTS CALENDAR:

Thursday, 11/6, 4:30 PM • Regular School Board Meeting (WISC - Rainier Room)
Thursday, 11/13, 4:30 PM • Regular School Board Meeting (WISC - Rainier Room)
Wednesday, 12/3, 4:30 PM • Surplus Book Sale
Thursday, 12/4, 4:30 PM • Regular School Board Meeting (WISC - Rainier Room)
Thursday, 12/18, 4:30 PM • Regular School Board Meeting (WISC - Rainier Room)

CULTURAL CALENDAR:

All Month:

November • Native American Heritage Month

Specific Days:

Tuesday, 11/4 • Election Day
Monday, 11/10–Friday, 11/14 • National School Psychology Week
Tuesday, 11/11 • Veterans Day
Friday, 11/13 • World Kindness Day
Friday, 11/14 • America Recycles Day
Monday, 11/17–Friday, 11/21 • American Education Week
Wednesday, 11/19 • Education Support Professionals Day
Thursday, 11/27 • Thanksgiving Day
Thursday, 11/27 • National Day of Mourning
Friday, 11/28 • Native American Heritage Day
Tuesday, 12/2 • National Special Education Day
Sunday, 12/7 • Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Monday, 12/8–Sunday, 12/14 • Computer Science Education Week
Sunday, 12/14–Monday, 12/22 • Hanukkah
Tuesday, 12/16–Wednesday, 12/24 • Las Posadas
Thursday, 12/25 • Christmas Day
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

BSD LEVY RENEWALS ON FEBRUARY 10, 2026 BALLOT

The Bellevue School District will have two levy renewals on the February 10, 2026, ballot. These measures are not new taxes but renewals that fund essential programs such as classroom support, technology, and building maintenance. The district emphasizes that these levies are vital for maintaining high-quality education and ensuring equitable opportunities for all students. Learn more here. Questions? Contact BSD.

HONORING STAFF WHO INSPIRE AND INNOVATE – BSD’S INAUGURAL T.E.A.C.H. AWARDS

Superintendent Aramaki highlighted BSD’s first-ever T.E.A.C.H. Awards, celebrating staff who exemplify excellence in teaching, engagement, and innovation. These awards recognize the dedication and creativity of BSD educators who go above and beyond to inspire their students. Read more about the honorees and their impact here. Questions? Contact BSD.

ENROLLMENT IS UP AND FINANCIAL RECOVERY IS ACCELERATING

The district reports encouraging progress in both student enrollment and financial recovery. After several years of challenges, BSD is seeing enrollment increases across multiple schools and improved fiscal stability. This positive momentum supports the district’s ongoing efforts to invest in classrooms, programs, and student success. Details can be found here. Questions? Contact BSD.

INCLEMENT WEATHER AND POTENTIAL CLOSURE REMINDERS

With winter approaching, BSD reminds families to stay informed about possible weather-related delays or closures. The district will communicate updates through phone, email, and the BSD website. Review important closure procedures and notification details here. Questions? Contact BSD.

IMPACT OF FEDERAL STAFF REDUCTIONS ON STUDENT SERVICES

The district has shared information about how recent federal staffing reductions may affect student services. BSD remains committed to minimizing disruptions and maintaining quality support for all students. Read more about the changes and the district’s response here. Questions? Contact BSD.

POLARIS BUS REROUTING AND TRANSPORTATION UPDATES

Starting Monday, October 27, the Polaris School bus stop at 139th and Eastgate Way will return to the school because of state construction on the I-90 Sunset Creek Fish Passage Project. The district’s Stopfinder app is temporarily down due to a global Amazon Web Services outage, and BSD is working with the vendor to restore service.

Last week marked National School Bus Safety Week, highlighting safe riding habits for students. BSD is also hiring bus drivers, offering paid training, benefits, and a longevity bonus.