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VOTE!
Turn in your ballots by 8 PM THIS Tuesday, February 10
| | UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS | | |
THIS WEEK:
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Monday, 2/9, 1:00 PM • Lunar New Year Staff Appreciation Luncheon
- Tuesday, 2/10 • VOTE!*
- Tuesday, 2/10, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
- Wednesday, 2/11 • Bite of IS*
NEXT WEEK:
- Monday, 2/16–Friday, 2/20 • No School (Mid-Winter Break)
LOOKING AHEAD:
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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 want to wish our entire community a wonderful Valentine’s Day filled with friendship and kindness. Whether you are celebrating with family or friends, we hope your day is sweet and full of appreciation! | | We wish a blessed and peaceful Maha Shivaratri to all those celebrating in our community. May this auspicious occasion bring you spiritual growth, happiness, and prosperity. | | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PTSA NEWS | | |
REFLECTIONS
First, a huge thank you to every student who participated in this year’s Reflections Competition. We were blown away by your creativity and the unique ways you interpreted our theme. Every submission brought something special to our school community.
School-Level Results
After careful judging, we are excited to announce our school winners! These talented students have officially advanced to the District level for further competition.
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District Results & Advancement to State
We have also received the official results from the District level! Please see the full list of District Winners here. We are incredibly proud to share that several of our students have been selected to advance to the State level.
Important Reminders for Winners:
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Keep your original artwork safe: If you win at the State level, your physical piece may be requested for further exhibition.
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Verification: Please double-check the spelling of your name in the table above and on the District Winners List. If any corrections are needed, email vpoutreach@isptsa.org immediately.
Whether or not your piece advanced this time, please know that your courage to share your work is a major achievement. Stay tuned for details regarding our upcoming school recognition awards!
Congratulations once again to all our artists!
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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!
Next game: 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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TAKE ACTION: 2026 BELLEVUE LEVIES
Every four years, voters in Bellevue School District renew two crucial levies. These levies provide funding for basic education and student services not funded by the state.
Existing levies fund 24% of the current Bellevue School District budget: “Yes” for renewal maintains this crucial funding!
Ballots for the upcoming election have been mailed, so please keep an eye on your mailbox! Be sure to fill yours out and return it by the February 10 deadline to ensure your voice is heard.
Please Renew Our Commitment by Voting "Yes" on Prop. 1 & 2!
Our nationally-ranked schools are the pride of our community. They create lifelong learners and innovators, as well as prepare our students for success in the workplace and life.
These measures are not new taxes or tax increases. They simply sustain the commitment we've made to our students.
| | 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. | | Find out more information from Bellevue Quality Schools, donate, and volunteer to help spread the word here. | | BELLEVUE PTSA COUNCIL NEWS | | |
YOUTH COOKING CLUB
The Bellevue PTSA Council Youth Cooking Club is having a special Valentine's Day baking class!
| | Get more info and sign up here! | | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWS | | |
LIBRARY NEWS - CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2026
2026 marks 100 years of national recognition of Black history. Each February, our nation honors the achievements, contributions, and lasting impact of Black Americans and their important place in our shared history.
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Black History month, our library has curated a special collection of books that highlight the experiences, struggles,
and achievements of Black people throughout history.
Many of these new titles were made possible through our PTSA’s $4,000 recurring budget for the 2025–2026 school year.
Thank you, ISPTSA, for your continued support of our library and our students!
Michele Dang
Library specialist
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SEEKING VOLUNTEERS FOR SAT PROCTORING – MARCH 25 AT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
We are looking for a few more volunteers to help proctor SAT testing on Wednesday, March 25. This is a great opportunity to support our school community and also learn more about the SAT testing process.
Testing runs from 8:15 AM to approximately 11:15 AM.
No prior proctoring experience is required—training will be provided.
To maintain testing integrity, we ask for volunteers who do not have a student in 11th grade.
If you are available and interested, please reach out to Betty Nhan.
Thank you for your support!
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VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY IN THE SCHOOL OFFICE
Would you like to be more involved with International School and be on campus during the school day? The main office is in need of a volunteer every other Thursday from 10:15-11:30. It’s easy and fun, and training is provided.
Please email Christy Smith with any questions or to sign up.
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SAT TESTING FOR 11TH GRADERS
On Wednesday, March 25, International will administer SAT testing for our 11th graders. Please avoid scheduling trips or appointments around that time. The test will start around 8:15 AM and end approximately at 11:15 AM. Students will continue their Wednesday class schedule afterwards.
All 11th graders will be registered to take the test, but if you don’t plan on taking it and wish to opt-out, please notify Betty Nhan (nhanb@bsd405.org) by Wednesday, February 25.
For more information about the College Board exams, please use the following online resources:
Questions? Email Betty Nhan (nhanb@bsd405.org).
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BITE OF IS RETURNS!
We are excited to start planning and announcing the Bite of IS!
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. Students and their guests also perform acts tied to their ethnic background (dance, song, etc.) 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. 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 THIS Wednesday, February 11, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Purchase Tickets Online: https://wa-bellevue.intouchreceipting.com/
Learn more about Renewal Food Bank: Renewal Food Bank
Questions? Email Dahlia Parekh or Kaiya Jones.
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MID-YEAR RESET: SUPPLIES & TECHNOLOGY
Welcome back to another week of learning! As we settle into the second half of the school year, we have noticed a significant number of students arriving without the necessary tools to succeed. We ask that you take a moment this week to help your student reset their daily routine.
1. The "Backpack Check" & Re-Stock Many supplies purchased in the fall have been used up or lost. Please check with your student and inspect their backpack to ensure they have the basics.
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Pencils & Pens: A surprising number of students are arriving with no writing utensils at all. Please ensure they have a fresh supply.
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Packed Bags: Help your student build the habit of packing their bag the night before so nothing is left behind in the morning rush.
2. Laptop Logistics Technology is vital to our daily lessons, but a dead battery stops learning in its tracks.
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Charge Nightly: Please establish a routine where laptops are plugged in every single night.
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Bring the Cord: If a battery cannot hold a charge for the full day, the charging cord must be in the backpack so the student can charge up during class.
Thank you for your partnership in ensuring our students are prepared and ready to learn every day!
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EVENTS CALENDAR:
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Wednesday, 2/25, 2:00–3:00 PM • WANIC Skill Center Open House – Maritime Welding and Construction Programs
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Wednesday, 2/25, 6:30–7:30 PM • Exploring a New Secondary Language Offering: A Hebrew Community Input Session
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Wednesday, 3/4, 1:00–3:00 PM • WANIC Skill Center Open House – Automotive Program
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Thursday, 3/5, 4:30 PM • Regular School Board Meeting (WISC - Rainier Room)
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Thursday, 3/19, 4:30 PM • Regular School Board Meeting (WISC - Rainier Room)
CULTURAL CALENDAR:
All 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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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 | | |
JANUARY 22 BSD NEWS AND EVENTS E NEWSLETTER
The January 22 BSD News and Events E-Newsletter shares timely updates and important information for Bellevue School District families. Highlights include reminders about recommended student vaccinations, details on the upcoming February 10 levy renewal election, and districtwide news focused on student health, safety, and learning.
Families can also find links to resources, upcoming events, and additional announcements from across the district. The E-Newsletter is a helpful way to stay informed about what is happening in BSD schools and how district decisions and initiatives support students and families. Read the entire article here.
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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SPRING GIRLS BASKETBALL - STARTING MARCH 24!
From March 24 to May 28, join us at the Tillicum Middle School Gym for Spring Skills Training. Our coaches will help the girls work on their basketball skills and organize scrimmages. The fee is $200, and it is open to girls of all experience levels in 2nd – 8th grade who live in the area zoned for Newport High School.
We will have 2 sessions:
- 6:15-7:45 PM: 2nd - 5th graders
- 7:45-9:15 PM: 6th - 8th graders
The emphasis this Spring is on skill and strength development. For grade levels that have enough players who want to do tournament(s), that option will be available.
Register here
Email newportgirlsselectbasketball@gmail.com if you have any questions.
https://www.newportgirlsselectbasketball.org/
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YMCA ENVIRONMENTAL SYMPOSIUM: EMPOWERING TEEN LEADERS
Attention students in grades 8-12! Join the YMCA Earth Service Corps at the University of Washington on Friday, March 27 (8:30 AM–1:30 PM). This symposium features hands-on workshops designed to build environmental leadership skills and connect you with peers. Lunch and raffle prizes are included!
Teachers bringing 7+ students can apply for substitute reimbursement, and support letters for excused absences are available.
Register online by March 13 or by emailing yesc@seattleymca.org. Visit the homepage at seattleymca.org.
Read the original letter here. See the flyer here.
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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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