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NO SCHOOL
TODAY, MONDAY, JANUARY 19
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY
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THIS WEEK IS FINALS WEEK
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20 –
FRIDAY, JANUARY 23
GOOD LUCK!
| | UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS | | |
THIS WEEK:
- Monday, 1/19 • No School (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
- Monday, 1/19 • Focus Day 2026 (Olympia)*
- Monday, 1/19 • Ice Skating Fundraiser Ends*
- Wednesday, 1/21, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
- Wednesday, 1/21, 5 PM • BSD Levy Info Night (Online)*
- Thursday, 1/22 • AMC 8 Registration Deadline
- Friday, 1/23 • ISPTSA S2 Grant Application Deadline (Date Change)*
- Friday, 1/23 • Semester 1 Ends
NEXT WEEK:
- Monday, 1/26 • No School
- Wednesday, 1/28 • AMC 8
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Wednesday, 1/28, 7–9 PM • ISPTSA General Membership Meeting, Online (Updated)*
LOOKING AHEAD:
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Tuesday, 2/3, 6:30–7:30 PM • MS Parent Info Night
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Tuesday, 2/3–Wednesday, 2/4 • WIDA Testing
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Saturday, 2/7 • HS Eastshore Vocal Solo and Ensemble
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Tuesday, 2/10 • VOTE!*
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Wednesday, 2/11 • Bite of IS*
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Monday, 2/16–Friday, 2/20 • No School (Mid-Winter Break)
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Tuesday, 2/10, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Monday, 2/23–Friday, 2/27 • Tech Week
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Friday, 3/6, 7 PM • Drama Performance
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Saturday, 3/7, 2 PM & 7 PM • Drama Performances
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Tuesday, 3/10, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Wednesday, 3/11 • PTSA 6th Grade Staff Lunch
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Friday, 3/13, 7 PM • Drama Performance
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Saturday, 3/14, 2 PM & 7 PM • Drama Performances
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Wednesday, 3/18, 7 PM • HS Orchestra Concert
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Thursday, 3/19, 7 PM • MS Orchestra Concert
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Monday, 3/23, 7 PM • Band Concert
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Wednesday, 3/25 • SAT Testing
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Wednesday, 3/25 • NHS Blood Drive
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Wednesday, 3/25. 7 PM • Choir Concert
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Thursday, 3/26. 7 PM • Choir Concert
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Friday, 3/27 • No School
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Wednesday, 4/22, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
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Tuesday, 5/12, 12:00–1:00 PM • ParentEd Talks Webinar
Click here to view the ISPTSA Calendar, which can be added to your personal Google or Outlook Calendar.
Click here to view the IS Even/Odd Days Calendar for the Year--Subject to change if the schedule does.
Click here to view the District 2025–2026 calendar for families.
*More information in the message below
Orange denotes new/updated calendar entries.
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The following are shout-outs and thank-yous to and from various members of our community.
Have a shout-out or thank-you to share? Anyone in our community can submit one by emailing news@isptsa.org.
| | Please join us in welcoming John Opal to the International School community! John is joining us as a second Jubilee Reach Site Coach, helping to expand the support available to our students. We look forward to having him on campus! | | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PTSA NEWS | | |
DEADLINE IS THIS FRIDAY
The new deadline for the Semester 2 Grants application will be THIS Friday, January 23!
We are thrilled to announce that the ISPTSA Grants Committee has awarded $15,762 across 18 new grants for the Semester 1 cycle! Thanks to the generous contributions of our parent community, we are funding a wide range of enhancements that touch every corner of student life at International School.
This cycle, we focused heavily on Arts and Academic Clubs, which combined received over 55% of the funding. Students will see immediate benefits ranging from a new "Big Bucket" Golf set for PE and fresh badminton rackets to custom equipment for the Chess Club and vital registration fees for our Titan Robotics team. We are also supporting long-standing traditions, including a brand-new red carpet for the beloved Snowflake Assembly, ensuring our seniors shine during this annual highlight.
Have an Idea? Apply for Semester 2! Whether it is providing deep, targeted engagement for specific clubs or funding software subscriptions that support whole-school learning, every dollar is going toward enriching the student experience.
If you have an idea that would enhance your classroom, club, or community, we want to hear from you! The Semester 2 Grant Cycle is now open. We encourage all teachers, staff, and student leaders (with a faculty advisor) to start brainstorming now. Whether it is innovative equipment, a unique guest speaker, or materials for a hands-on project, the PTSA is here to help turn your ideas into reality.
Click Here to Apply for Semester 2 Grants
Thank you for making these opportunities possible!
Questions? Email ISPTSA Grants.
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INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PTSA GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Join us for our upcoming ISPTSA General Membership Meeting!
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When: Wednesday, January 28, 7:00 – 9:00 PM
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Where: ONLINE (Link will be provided closer to the date)
Special Presentations: Alumni & Principal Update
We are excited to welcome back recent IS graduates Sebastian Meisner (Santa Clara University) and Rishita Bhattacharjee (NYU). They will share their college experiences, decision-making processes, and insights on what they wish they had known before graduating.
Principal White will also present an update on International School. There will be time for Q&A following each presentation.
Agenda Highlights:
- Budget
- Auction Updates
- Review and Vote on Key ISPTSA Business Matters.
Why Attend? Learn how PTSA funds are used and make your voice heard! This is a great opportunity to ask questions and find ways to support our students, staff, and school.
Who Can Attend? Everyone is welcome: students, staff, families, and community members! While all attendees may participate in discussions, please note that only registered ISPTSA members (including students) may vote.
We hope to see you there!
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URGENT: AUCTION CHAIR NEEDED TO PREVENT FUNDING CUTS
The Auction is our single largest fundraiser of the year. Here is the reality: Without an auction this year, we will be forced to cut funding for student programs and school grants next year.
We cannot make this event happen without leadership. We are urgently looking for volunteers to step up as Auction Chair or Co-Chairs.
You Will Not Be Alone
This is a big role, but you will be supported by past VPs and a committee dedicated to your success. Please help us secure the funding that makes our school special.
Ready to help save our programs? Contact president@isptsa.org today.
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SEE'S CANDIES VALENTINE'S FUNDRAISER: CLASS OF 2026
Getting ready to share the love (and chocolate)? Our online store is open now through Friday, January 30!
These treats make great gifts for loved ones—or a well-deserved reward for yourself. You can order online and ship directly to your recipients.
Maximize Your Impact! Your purchases help fund graduation activities that celebrate our seniors and honor the staff who have supported them.
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50% Donation: Buy the Milk Chocolate Buttercream Heart or Whiskers & Wags Box and half the profit is donated to the school!
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20% Donation: All other items contribute 20% to the Class of 2026.
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INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL @ THE KRAKEN!
The Seattle Kraken are excited to collaborate with the International School PTSA to offer an exclusive opportunity to purchase specialty-priced tickets for select games at Climate Pledge Arena this season!
Two games available - Thursday, January 29 & Sunday, March 15!
Join us in Defending the Deep!
Click here for Tickets: ISPTSA x Seattle Kraken
$2 of each ticket purchased will go to ISPTSA.
Tickets cannot be resold, refunded, or exchanged.
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TAKE ACTION: 2026 BELLEVUE LEVIES (NEW UPDATES)
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!
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.
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ISPTSA voted to pass a resolution in favor of both Propositions 1 and 2 at the October 29 General Membership Meeting and approved a line item in our budget to donate to Bellevue Quality Schools to help support spreading the word.
BSD District leadership will be hosting levy information nights for the community on the following dates/locations:
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THIS Wednesday, January 21, 5:00 PM - Online (link will be posted at a later date)
Read the latest BSD blog:
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HOW THE LEVIES SUPPORT STUDENT LEARNING
As the February levy renewal approaches, Bellevue School District explains how local levies directly support classrooms, academic programs, technology, safety improvements, and building maintenance. These funds help bridge the gap between state funding and the true cost of educating students. Read the entire article here.
More information is available on the BSD levy renewal web page.
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ATTEND THE GET OUT THE VOTE EVENT TO 'DOOR BELL' ACROSS THE CITY! (NEW)
THIS Saturday, January 24 at 10 AM. Signup link.
URGENT NEED for DOOR BELLING VOLUNTEERS!
- We need 10 volunteers from every Elementary school
- We need 20 volunteers from every Middle School and 6-12 Choice School
- We need 30 volunteers from every High School
- High school students can get community service hours approved through x2VOL.
| | Find out more information from Bellevue Quality Schools, donate, and volunteer to help spread the word here. | | |
LAST CHANCE: SKATE FOR ISPTSA ENDS TODAY
Time is running out to support International School at the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink! You only have until TODAY, Monday, January 19 to hit the ice and earn money for our school.
For every student, parent, or staff member who visits the rink and mentions our school, the PTSA receives $3. This is a simple and fun way to raise funds for our programs, but the window is closing soon!
How to Participate Before January 19:
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Go Skating: Visit the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink at Bellevue Downtown Park.
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Mention Our School: When you arrive and check in, you must notify the rink staff that you are with International School.
Important Reminder: The $3 donation is only tracked when you notify the staff in person upon arrival. It is not tracked through the online e-ticketing platform, so please don't forget this critical step even if you bought tickets online!
You can buy tickets online to secure your spot at the region's largest covered, open-air ice skating experience. See the flyer here.
Don't miss your final chance to enjoy the region's largest open-air ice skating experience while supporting the ISPTSA.
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FOCUS DAY IN OLYMPIA IS TODAY!
Come advocate to close the funding gaps and ensure financial stability for schools and other vital issues that impact students around the state. We need no cuts for kids and a long-term plan to amply fund K-12 moving forward! Learn more about Focus Day here or watch the video below.
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WSPTA March for K-12 Funding
As part of Focus Day, we are going to march to raise our collective voice for strong school funding!
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Date: TODAY, Monday, January 19
- Meet: Flag Circle on the sidewalk near the North stairs of the Capitol Building in Olympia
- Time: 1:30 PM
- Theme: Kids are an investment, not an expense!
- Signs: Handheld signs encouraged (no sticks allowed inside Capitol). A sign-making table will be available in the Columbia Room during Focus Day.
- Dress Code: Wear your PTA BLUE!
More details about the day's schedule, activities, and events can be found in the video above.
Focus on Advocacy Week: January 26-30
Throughout the week, WSPTA will send Action Alerts to members who have signed up to help. Each Action Alert will provide easily customizable messages that our Action Network system will automatically send to your legislators. It is easy to do and only takes a few minutes. Get ready to participate by signing up for action alerts.
Join the WSPTA Action Network
The WSPTA Action Network is used throughout the legislative session to raise our collective voices and send messages to legislators. When you sign up, you’ll receive timely alerts about legislation, funding, and policy decisions affecting public education and the well-being of children, youth, and families in Washington. It is easy to do and only takes a few minutes. Join our Action Network now!
Be Part of the Conversation by Joining our Digital Space!
The 2026 Washington state legislative session is just around the corner, bringing countless opportunities to go to bat for kids in a challenging advocacy environment.
Advocacy is a team sport—fast-moving, at times complex, and most effective when we work together. That’s why the WSPTA Advocacy Team has launched a new digital space where members can: ask questions, share ideas, and build connections. Sign up today!
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INVITATION TO A SPECIAL EDUCATION VIRTUAL MIXER
If you’re a leader, carer, family, or community member who’s passionate about supporting WA state special education students, we’d love for you to join the WSPTA Special Education Committee for a MIXER—it’s a great chance to connect socially and get some valuable insights! We’ll be sharing what Special Education & Special Needs PTAs are up to, highlighting what’s working and what could be improved. Plus, we’ll have a legislative update to keep you in the loop.
Happening 6:00-8:00 PM on Thursday, January 29
DOOR PRIZE! All attendees eligible to win!
Registration required: HERE
Do you have a unique event you’d like to be considered to have highlighted at this event? Email ptafacedir@wastatepta.org with your story, along with any questions.
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SAFER INTERNET DAY
Safer Internet Day is an international education and awareness-raising effort, celebrated in over 100 countries. Led by ConnectSafely in the United States, it’s a day to bring communities together to discuss challenges families face navigating the digital world, and empowers them to use technology responsibly, respectfully, critically and creatively. Stay tuned for more info about how to participate in Safer Internet Day with National PTA.
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In honor of Safer Internet Day, you are encouraged to watch a webinar from National PTA and ConnectSafely, "Smart Digital Parenting: Navigating Screens with Children and Teens," co-facilitated by our own PTA Connected National Ambassador, Mikki Wilson.
The webinar is designed to bring families the tools to navigate the online world together.
| | INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWS | | |
YEARBOOK SALES CLOSE JANUARY 31!
Pre-purchase your yearbook online today, and get your Sharpie ready for June distribution! Sales close Saturday, January 31.
Questions? Email Jill Follett.
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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!
Check out the Bite of IS 2024 Video Clip created by Wesley Hung!
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The Bite of IS is a multicultural potluck event held annually in the International School Gym. At the Bite, students, family members, and staff all contribute a culturally significant dish to serve to attendees from their booths. We encourage you to host a booth as an individual, a club, or as families coming together. We are also looking for cultural performances! Students and their guests have the opportunity to perform an act tied to their ethnic background (dance, song, etc.) and can perform solo or in groups for visitors during the event.
This year, proceeds from the Bite of IS will go to Renewal Food Bank, a very local organization supporting our Bellevue families with food assistance and essential hygiene items. Sign-ups for booths and performers are now open, and participation, as well as attendance, is strongly encouraged. The Bite is a great opportunity to embrace the diversity found within our community!
The Bite of IS will take place on Wednesday, February 11, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Sign up today to support Renewal Food Bank and International School!
Questions? Email Dahlia Parekh or Kaiya Jones.
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EVENTS CALENDAR:
CULTURAL CALENDAR:
All Month:
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January • Americans of Chinese Descent History Month
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January • School Board Recognition Month
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February • Black History Month
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February • Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month
Specific Days:
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Monday, 1/19 • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
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Tuesday, 1/27 • International Holocaust Remembrance Day
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Sunday, 2/1 • National Freedom Day
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Monday, 2/2–Friday, 2/6 • National School Counseling Week
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Wednesday, 2/4 • Rosa Parks Day
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Saturday, 2/14 • Valentine's Day
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Sunday, 2/15 • Maha Shivaratri
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Monday, 2/16 • Presidents' Day
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Tuesday, 2/17–Thursday 3/19 • Ramadan
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Tuesday, 2/17 • National PTA Founders Day
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Tuesday, 2/17 • Lunar New Year
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Wednesday, 2/18 • Ash Wednesday
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Wednesday, 2/25–Saturday, 2/28 • Ayyám-i-Há or Intercalary Days
Click here to view all District calendars.
*More information in the message below
Orange denotes new/updated calendar entries
| | BELLEVUE SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS | | |
BSD SPECIAL EDUCATION UPCOMING EVENTS
COFFEE CHATS
Please join us for coffee and conversation! Connect with other parents who have students with IEPs or 504s - it will be informal, with no specific agenda – just a time to share and talk. This is an optional opportunity, hosted and sponsored by the PTSA Council - Special Services Committee. Coffee will be provided from the Everbean Coffee Shop. Everbean is staffed by young adults in the Evergreen Transition Program, our community-based job training program for individuals with disabilities ages 18-22.
Dates/Time:
January 23, 10-11:00 AM (secondary/transition age)
Location:
Welcome Center - 12011 NE 1st ST, 98005 (ESC WEST)
FAMILY RESOURCE SESSIONS
Title: Navigating SSI Benefits – Insights from the ARC of King County
Date/Time: January 20 from 6-7:30 PM
Location: online - click here to join the meeting
Topics Covered
- What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
- How do I help my young adult apply for SSI?
- What do you need to apply for SSI?
- How much does SSI provide?
- Can my young adult work if they receive SSI?
- If I have questions about SSI, who can I talk to?
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Read more HERE
Title: Launching into Adulthood
Date/Time: January 29 from 6-7:30 PM
Location: online – click here to join the meeting
Topics Covered
- Understanding how Transition Planning Drives the IEP under IDEA
- Post-School Options
- Connections to Adult Agencies
- Getting your young adult job or college ready
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Read more HERE
PARENT AAC GROUP
Join us for a monthly Parent AAC Group designed for families of students who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). This group will provide resources, hands-on strategies, and a welcoming space to connect with other parents. The group will be hosted by Alli Havanec - Speech Pathologist and AAC Specialist for the Bellevue School District. Please open the Flyer for more details (including dates and topics). Reach out to assistivetech@bsd405.org with questions.
Next Meeting: January 20 from 5-6 PM. ESC West – Room 306, 12011 NE 1st St, Bellevue, WA 98005
Thank you! We hope to see you there.
Questions? Email SpecialEdFamilyRes@bsd405.org.
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NEW SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR NAMED FOR DISTRICT 4
The Bellevue School Board appointed Eugene Kolovyansky as the new Director for District 4 to fill the vacancy left by Director Monica Webster. Mr. Kolovyansky’s term begins on January 22, 2026, and he will serve through the end of the current term in November 2027.
Mr. Kolovyansky will be officially sworn in at the January 22 school board meeting. The district thanks all community members who were willing to step forward for this important leadership role and congratulates Mr. Kolovyansky on his appointment.
Please join us in welcoming Director Kolovyansky as he begins working with the board to support our students, families, and staff.
Read the entire article here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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BSD NEWS AND EVENTS: JANUARY 8 E-NEWSLETTER (NEW)
The District shared its latest BSD News and Events e-newsletter on January 8, packed with important updates for families and staff as we start the new year.
This edition includes announcements about district programs, upcoming events, community highlights, and reminders to help keep everyone informed and connected. Check the newsletter for timely information on school happenings and ways to stay engaged in the Bellevue School District community.
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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NEWPORT HIGH SCHOOL FCCLA KIDS COOKING CLASSES
Calling all aspiring chefs in grades 3–8! Newport High School’s FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) is hosting their annual hands-on cooking classes.
This is a fantastic opportunity for students to build confidence, learn basic culinary skills, and have fun in the kitchen!
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Who: Students in Grades 3–8
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Instructors: Experienced high school FCCLA members (under adult supervision by the NHS culinary teacher/advisor).
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Cost: $75 per class (Payment via Touchbase)
Registration: Sign up now for the first three classes of the 2025-2026 season! FCCLA Kids Cooking Classes Registration 2025-2026
Questions? Please reach out to Aaron Yu.
| | BSF SPRING FOR SCHOOLS 2026 | | |
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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