MONDAY MESSENGER
November 18, 2019
Please Note: This newsletter may be truncated by your email program. Please click VIEW ENTIRE MESSAGE at the bottom to read the full newsletter.
UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS
THIS WEEK:
  • Thursday, 11/21, 7:00 PM • High School Band Concert

NEXT WEEK:
  • Thursday, 11/28–Friday, 11/29 • NO SCHOOL—Thanksgiving

LOOKING AHEAD:
  • Wednesday, 12/4, 7:00 PM • All School Orchestra Concert
  • Thursday, 12/5, 7:00 PM • Middle School Band Concert
  • Friday, 12/6, 7:00 PM • Middle School Social
  • Tuesday, 12/10, 7:00 PM • Middle School Choir Concert
  • Wednesday, 12/11, 11:40 AM • Staff Appreciation Lunch Hosted by 10th-Grade Families
  • Thursday, 12/12, 7:00 PM • High School Choir Concert
  • Saturday, 12/14, 7:00–9:30 PM Tolo (High School)
  • Monday, 12/23–Friday, 1/3 • Winter Break
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
SEE HOW YOU CAN HELP OUT

IS and the ISPTSA are currently seeking the following volunteers:

  • Two 7th-Grade Parent Representatives, current school year
  • On-call Volunteers, current school year

PTSA NEWS
RAISE THE TORCH TO ALL OUR GENEROUS DONORS!
   
As a community, we raised an impressive $28,600 during our Fall Fundraiser! On behalf of the ISPTSA Board of Directors, a HUGE THANK YOU to all the families, faculty, and individuals listed below who gave generously to our campaign! Your support allows the PTSA to continue to fund programs which enrich the academic and community experience for every student at IS.

Didn’t get around to participating in our fall campaign? It’s not too late! We accept donations all year round and will count contributions made through December toward this campaign.  Click here to donate!

THANK YOU AGAIN TO ALL OUR GENEROUS SUPPORTERS! 
GO TITANS!
TITAN TORCH SUPPORTERS ($1,000+)
Arsenault Family
Vijay & Preeti Aski
Rima Fotoohi
Brett & Dori Kelleran
Azfar Moazzam
Anonymous (1 donor)

GOLD SUPPORTERS ($500–$999)
Michelle Bell
Sebastian Burkholder
Jo Chau
Akash Chauhan
Ginn Family
Eddie Lee & Nancy Chung
Jeff & Amy Pellegrini
Mira & Nikola Rudic
Jiantao Sun
Michelle Surkan
Anonymous (2 donors)

SILVER SUPPORTERS ($250 $499)
Amy Alpeza
Katie & Eric Artz
Annalisa Atienza
Brenda Bedrosian
Philip Bloch
Chris Buckley
Gang Chen & Yan Zhang
David Doud
Michael & June Han
Dawei Huang & Yanfen Zhang
Angelika Koch-Leibmann
Richard Lander
Jackie & Greg Lang
Dong Hun Lee
Michelle Lee & Michael Yoo
McKnight Family
Neetha Rao
Melissa & Sam Richardson
Mary Jo Rodgers
Brandon & Thuy Shimizu
Linda Teh
Krishnan Thazhathekalam
Yoo Family
Seong Yoon
Jiangbo Zhang
Anonymous (6 donors)

BRONZE SUPPORTERS ($100–$249)
Vern & Michelle Ameen
Anindita Banerjee
Bill Bowdish
Molly Brown
BRONZE ($100–$249) continued
Grant & Emilie Castle
Wen Chen
Xiao Chen
David Choy
Michael de Groot
Yenii Dex
Sarah Dumke
Zhengzhu Feng
Jill Follett
Pablo Ganga
Sid & Charmaine Graham
Natalie Holm
Wenpin Hou
Silvia Hui
Wenjing Jiang
Jana Jiwani
Janine Le
Linda Lee
Xiaozhen Li
Jun Ma
Ericka Marini
Misner Family
Betty Nhan & Michael Kim
Karyn O'Hara
Parish Family
Linda Parrish
Pedersen Family
Susan Ryder
Sylvie Sanguin
John Sato
Achal Shah
Jason & Thyda Tsai
L. Tsiktsiris & J. Park
Vivian Yu
Guochi Zhang & Jing Shen
Li Zhang
Tiffany Zhang
Anonymous (22 donors)

SUPPORTERS (up to $99)
Amy Chin
Rebecca Kerstetter
Clara Ortiz
Bharathi Pillarisetti
Ann Ross-Clarke
Shur family
Kristina Sunwoo
Randal Taira
Joy Tran
Li & George Wu
Donxia Zhang
Chenming Zhao
Anonymous (9 donors)
REMEMBER TO DOUBLE OR TRIPLE YOUR DONATION WITH CORPORATE MATCHING!

Does your company have a Matching Gift Program? The International School PTSA is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. We accept donations from individuals and corporations, and these donations are tax deductible. Local companies such as Microsoft, Boeing, Google, T-Mobile & Expedia will “match” the charitable contributions made by their employees, including:
  • Fall Fundraiser Donations
  • Membership Dues
  • Volunteer Hours
For more information, check out the  Corporate Matching Page on our website.
Double your generous donation through a Matching Gift today! Thank you for taking the extra step for IS!
Questions? Please contact  [email protected] .
SAVE THE DATE—SPRING SOCIAL IS MARCH 28, 2020!

The PTSA will host our Annual Spring Social Fundraiser to celebrate our students, school, and community on the evening of Saturday, March 28, 2020 . Please mark your calendars now to ensure that you can join us for this fun community event. Stay tuned for more information!
ADVOCACY NEWS

Last week, I highlighted the new issue that passed at PTSA's annual Legislative Assembly. This week, I will highlight one of the new resolutions. Issues are voted for a two-year legislative focus. Resolutions are broader in scope and designed to guide advocacy long-term.  

Thanks, 
Krista Hammer
ISPTSA Advocacy Chair 

Contact me if you have a personal story or expertise on any of the issues/resolutions I highlight over the next few weeks!  I may urge you to email a legislator.  

New Resolution:  2.23 Gun Violence Prevention and Safety 

Whereas , one of the purposes of Washington State PTA is to advocate for laws that further the education, physical and mental health, welfare, and safety of children and youth; and 
Whereas , firearms are the second leading cause of death for American children and teens nationally, with nearly 1,600 children and teens dying by gun homicid​e ​every year; and over 950 children and teens dying of suicide by gun every year; and the rate of firearm suicide is up by 61 percent in the past 10 years; and 
Whereas , clause left out here for sake of brevity ...
Whereas , clause left out here for sake of brevity ...
Whereas , recent research strongly supports that safe storage of firearms reduces the risk of suicide, domestic violence, homicide, and unintentional injury; and 
Whereas  clause left out here for sake of brevity ...
Therefore, be it 
Resolved,  that Washington State PTA encourages its local PTAs, councils, and members, as well as its fellow state PTAs, to support and advocate for legislation and policies that aim to prevent gun violence and reduce youth suicide; and be it further 
Resolved , that Washington State PTA advocates for legislation and policies that reduce dangerous gun access, including: 
• enforce all existing gun violence prevention laws 
• strictly regulate civilian ownership of firearms and non-sporting ammunition, including high capacity magazines holding more than 10 rounds 
• restrict dangerous access to all firearms, especially by children and by people with a history of violence including, but not limited to, domestic abusers, violent criminals, and/or people with histories showing a pattern of threatening behavior 
• require the best available background checks on all firearm sales 
• mandate safety training for firearms ownership 
• hold legally accountable those corporations, businesses, and individuals who facilitate dangerous access to firearms 
• oppose the defensive arming of teachers and school staff, other than properly trained and uniformed school resource officers (SROs).

8TH-GRADE FAMILY STAFF APPRECIATION LUNCH APRECIADO !

On November 13, 8th-grade families catered a delicious Mexican lunch for our teachers and staff. Thank you to all of the 8th-grade families who contributed time, food, financial assistance, and flowers. Delicioso!
 
The next Staff Appreciation Lunch will be hosted by 10th-grade families on December 11. Please stay tuned for more details and a call for volunteers. 
SCHOOL NEWS
MAKERSPACE DONATIONS
 
The library’s makerspace is requesting donations of supplies to support projects. Donations can be placed in the large yellow box marked “Makerspace Donations” by the top of the gym stairs in the Commons. Thank you in advance for donations!
 
  • Safety equipment (aprons, protective eye glasses, gloves, etc.)
  • Craft supplies (glue, paper, tape, sewing materials, etc.)
  • Storage Containers (2- or 3-drawer storage bin organizers, paint trays, etc.)
  • Tools
  • Electronics (batteries, unwanted but working electronics, switches, LEDs, etc.)
  • k’nex, wooden cubes, blocks, etc.
  • Small toaster oven
 
Thank you for everyone who has donated so far! Please contact Tara Jones with questions.
9TH & 10TH GRADE PARENTS:

If you missed our parent event on Thursday, November 7, you can now get the presentation information online.

Visit the IS Parent Night page, scroll down to the 9th/10th post, and click on the slideshow to view the PowerPoint presentation.
FENTANYL CRISIS INFORMATION

For those who were unable to attend one of the Bellevue School District's presentations concerning the fentanyl crisis, please click here to go to the district's Fentanyl Crisis Resources Page.

GREEN TEAM WINTER CLOTHING DRIVE

Please help keep your neighbors warm while also repurposing the coats, hats, gloves, scarves, etc. that you no longer wear.

Bring your gently used kid- and adult-sized winter wear to Room 206 (Tamara’s) by Monday, November 25.

Make the Green Choice and Benefit YouthLink’s Thanksgiving Dinner at Crossroads Community Center!
BSD MIDDLE SCHOOL FAMILY TECHNOLOGY NIGHT

Tillicum Middle School
Tuesday, December 10, 6:00–8:00 PM

Interested in exploring technology? Come to BSD Middle School Family Technology Night! Microsoft, DigiPen, Step Academy, Coding with Kids, SAM Labs, Seattle Advocates, Middle School CTE Clubs, Newport Robotics, Neport Rocketry, Sammamish Robototes, Newport Deca, Bellevue School District Assitive Technology, and the Bellevue KCLS Makerspace will provide a fun range of activities for you and your family to engage in.  

This event is open to all middle school families in the Bellevue School District. Please remember to bring your charged laptop. $1 pizza slices available for purchase from Tillicum PTSA .  

Please RSVP here .
STUDENT NEWS & COMMUNITY EVENTS
BELLEVUE SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

3 Ways in 3 Days: Black Friday 11/29, Cyber Monday 12/2, and #GivingTuesday 12/3

This holiday season, buy the gift that will last a lifetime. Click this link for your Amazon  Black Friday & Cyber Monday  shopping, and up to 8% of your profits will go toward helping homeless and low-income children attend pre-school in Bellevue!

#GivingTuesday  is a global day of online giving. Kick off the holiday giving season today by helping a homeless or low-income child in Bellevue go to one of our top-notch preschools. Economically disadvantaged children in our preschool programs realize a 39% increase in literacy and a 33% increase in math skills. Be a hero to a child in need.
Save the Date!
Friday, May 1, is BSF's annual Spring for Schools Luncheon at the Bellevue Hyatt Regency. Learn how your dollars transform our Bellevue district schools and support every student, every day. The Education Showcase starts at 10:15 AM, and the luncheon takes place from 11:50 AM–1:15 PM.
HOLIDAY CRAFT AND VENDOR FAIR

Thursday, December 5, 3:00–7:00 PM
Rainier & Baker Room, WISC, 12241 Main Street, Bellevue

The Bellevue Association for Educational Office Professionals (BAEOP) is holding a Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair! The event is free and open to everyone. Come take a look at the lovely holiday gifts, grab some refreshments, and start your holiday shopping! 
 
We have room for more vendors and would love to see the handicrafts and other items our BSD families have to offer! Contact Lori Hanson if you would like to reserve a table or if you have any questions. 
UPCOMING BELLEVUE GIFTED ALLIANCE EVENTS

Gifted Graduates on College Student Panel
Thursday, December 19, 6:30–8:00 PM
Bellevue High School Performing Arts Center, 10416 SE Wolverine Way
Current college students and graduates of BSD's Gifted High School Program (now Advanced Learning) discuss how to choose a college. The panel will be joined by Tina Neville, Yale graduate and CEO of Transcend Academy, on college entrance success factors; and Dr. Richard Repass, psychiatrist and expert on student mental health and stress management. This is a POPULAR event and Free to BSD students and staff with BSD Card.  $5 for parents and $10 for non-Bellevue residents.

High School Student Panel
Wednesday, January 8, 6:30–8:00 PM
Sammamish High School Performing Arts Center, 100 140th Avenue SE
High school students who attended BSD's Advanced Learning (previously the gifted) program discuss how to choose a high school.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL  FUN  DRAISING OPPORTUNITY!

Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink at Bellevue Downtown Park

November 29, 2019–January 20, 2020

When you skate at  Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink and mention you are with International School at the admission counter, a $3 donation will be made to our PTSA for each paid rink admission during the dates listed above!

Visit  bellevueicerink.com for skating hours, pricing, promotions, and special events.
NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS (NAMI) ENDING THE SILENCE

TONIGHT
Monday, November 18, 2019, 6:30–8:00 PM
Sammamish High School Commons,100 140th Ave SE, Bellevue 98005

NAMI Ending the Silence is an engaging presentation that helps audience members learn about the warning signs of mental health conditions and what steps to take if you or a loved one are showing symptoms of mental illness.  

We talk about Acceptance, Treatment, and Coping Skills.  

The presentation includes a lead presenter and a young adult with a mental health condition who shares a journey of recovery. 
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
 
Tuesday, November 19, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Council Office
ESC West 1st floor, 12011 NE 1st Street Bellevue, WA 98005

The Bellevue PTSA Council invites parents to the next Health and Wellness Meeting.  The chair of this group would like to hear what issues are impacting the wellness of Bellevue students.  She will take these concerns to the district, and she will coordinate efforts to enhance student well-being. It would be great if a few of our parents from IS could attend (you do not need to be a PTSA member)!  
 
Contact [email protected] with questions.
SCREENAGERS: NEXT CHAPTER SCREENING &
DISCOUNT CODE

ParentMap is thrilled to announce that an Eastside Screening of SCREENAGERS: Next Chapter has been scheduled.
 
November 19, 7:00 PM, Eastside Preparatory School
screening plus panel after for Q & A
 
Click here  to watch the trailer and purchase tickets. Use the code EASTSIDE for $5.00 off. This is an event for both adults and kids.
STUDENT SPORTS & OPPORTUNITIES
FREE GIRLS LACROSSE CLINICS 

Open to Elementary & Middle School Girls who are interested in trying Lacrosse or are registered with a local team and want to work on their lacrosse fundamentals. Hosted By NSI Girls Lacrosse, a non-profit club that serves the Bellevue community in the attendance areas of Newport, Sammamish, and Interlake High Schools. 

  • Friday, January 3, 5:00–7:00 PM
  • Monday, January 6, 5:00–7:00 PM
  • Friday, January 10, 5:00–7:00 PM
  • Monday, January 13, 5:00–7:00 PM 

Bellevue College Gym, 2800 Snoqualmie River Road, Bellevue, WA 98005

ROBINSON CENTER FOR YOUNG SCHOLARS

What is UW Academy?
The UW Academy is an early admission opportunity at the University of Washington for current 10th-grade students.  Students apply to the program during their 10th-grade year , withdraw from high school, and enroll as freshmen at the University of Washington the following fall. At the Robinson Center, Academy students find a community of like-minded peers and an experienced staff who can help them to make the most of their time at the UW, with access to personalized advising and counseling services, and a robust alumni network. 

What is Transition School?
The Transition School (TS) is a one-year college preparatory program offered through the Robinson Center for Young Scholars at the University of Washington. Each year, we accept a small cohort of students and prepare them to enter the University as fully matriculated undergraduates via the Early Entrance Program (EEP).  Students apply during their 8th-grade year  and begin TS the following fall. To be successful in this intensive learning experience, candidates need to demonstrate academic achievement, a scholarly aptitude, and self-motivation. 

For more information, contact us at (206) 543-4160,  [email protected] , or visit us online .
THE PRINCETON PRIZE IN RACE RELATIONS

Do you know any high school students fighting for racial equity and better racial understanding within their schools or communities?
 
Princeton Prize in Race Relations winners are awarded $1,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to meet winners from all across the country and participate in the annual Symposium on Race at Princeton University. 

Learn more about the Princeton Prize in Race Relations,  or nominate a student doing this important work, and we will send the student a link to apply for the Prize!
MASTHEAD / DIRECTORY / LINKS
President
Azfar Moazzam 
Secretary
Zena Heywood
Treasurer 1
Tony Wang
Treasurer 2
Nancy Chung
VP of Communications
Li Wu
VPs of Community
Qiong Chen & Rachel An
VP of Fundraising
Dori Kelleran
VPs of Outreach
Meribeth Nordloef-Pedersen
& Beverly Ni
Membership
OPEN
Advocacy
Krista Hammer
Monday Messenger
Julie Molinari
Website
Li Zhang
IS Staff Liaison
Marrene Franich & Wesley Hung
PTSA
Website: www.isptsa.org
Newsletter Submissions: [email protected]
SHOP FOR THE BELLEVUE SCHOOLS FOUNDATION
Enter Amazon.com through this link and Amazon will donate 8% of every purchase you make to support Bellevue students, including those at IS! Share the link and spread the word to family and friends anywhere.
CONFUSED ABOUT SOMETHING?
The ISPTSA is always here to help answer your IS questions.

Email us here , and we'll help you find the answers you need.
SCHOOL DIRECTORY & LINKS
Attendance 425-456-6545
Main Office 425-456-6500 
MS Counseling 425-456-6546
HS Counseling 425-456-6542 
Registrar 425-456-6535 

SUPPORT YOUR PTSA
Donate Anytime

Write your check to the International School PTSA and send it to:
ISPTSA
445 128th Ave. SE
Bellevue, WA 98005
Or, even easier, donate
via PayPal .
ISPTSA TUMBLER
Support your school community and the environment by buying an ISPTSA Tumbler

 These great-looking 14-oz dual-wall insulated stainless-steel tumblers have a swivel lid with drink-thru opening and a plastic-ring seal to stave off spills. With the ISPTSA logo, it will keep your drink hot or cold while you look cool handling the morning commute or afternoon pickup, and your purchase will benefit the International School PTSA!

Visit the International School PTSA Store . Proceeds benefit the International School PTSA.

MONDAY MESSENGER
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
  • Please submit articles by FRIDAY at 12:00 PM (noon) to [email protected].
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.