March 18, 2024

MONDAY MESSENGER

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DON'T FORGET: SCHOOL

WILL BE IN SESSION

THIS FRIDAY, MARCH 22!

THIS WEEK:

• Monday, 3/18, 7 PM • HS Choir Concert
• Tuesday, 3/19, 7 PM • MS Choir Concert
• Wednesday, 3/20 • SAT (Juniors)
• Thursday, 3/21 • BSD MS Festivals for Orchestra and Choir
• Friday, 3/22 • School Open (Make-up Day)
• Saturday, 3/23, 2 PM & 7 PM • IS Drama: Amelie the Musical (Rescheduled)*

NEXT WEEK:

• Wednesday, 3/27, 1:45 PM • Le Grand Concours
• Wednesday, 3/27 • HS Band 2 Eastshore (Date & Time Change)
• Wednesday, 3/27 • Orchestra 2 Eastshore (Date & Time Change)
• Wednesday, 3/27, 6 PM • 11th Grade Parent Night Pt. 2 (Date Change)
• Thursday, 3/28, 7 PM • MS Band Concert

LOOKING AHEAD:

• Tuesday, 4/2, 6:40 PM • IS HS Choirs Sing National Anthem at Mariners Game*
• Wednesday, 4/3 • Staff Appreciation Luncheon Hosted by the 7th Grade Families
• Friday, 4/5 • Quarter 3 Ends
• Friday, 4/5, 4 PM • Talent Show
• Monday, 4/8–Friday, 4/12 • No School (Spring Break)
• Tuesday, 4/16, 6:30 PM • 8th Grade Parent Night
• Monday, 4/22–Friday, 4/26 • Spirit Week
• Thursday, 4/25, 6:30 PM • ISPTSA General Membership Meeting
• Saturday, 4/27, 8 PM • Prom

Click here to view the ISPTSA Calendar, which can be added to your personal Google or Outlook Calendar.

Click here to view the District 2023–2024 calendar for families.

*More information in the message below

Orange denotes new/updated calendar entries.

IS HS CHOIRS WILL SING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM AT THE MARINERS GAME!

The International High School Choirs are singing the National Anthem at the Mariners game on Tuesday, April 2 at 6:40 PM! Come join your fellow International Families for a fun night at the ballpark while supporting our students! The ISPTSA has arranged for tickets to be $25 per person and to be in section 116 (1st base side). The deadline to buy is Monday, March 25 to guarantee that you get to sit with other International Families. Any tickets bought after March 25 may be in a random section. The Mariners will be playing against the Cleveland Guardians. Come cheer on the Mariners and our amazing choir students! Buy tickets here!

Questions? Contact Emilie Castle, ISPTSA Co-President

7TH GRADE STAFF APPRECIATION LUNCHEON

The 7th Grade Families will be hosting a Staff Appreciation Luncheon on Wednesday, April 3 from 11:40 AM to 12:15 PM. All 7th Grade Families that are interested in volunteering to help show our wonderful staff how much we appreciate them, please sign up here. Questions? Contact Jin Xu and Yue Mai, 7th Parent Reps.

ISPTSA 2024-2025 BOARD NOMINATIONS

Join the International School PTSA Board! Be in the know, build strong teacher/staff/volunteer relationships, and lend your voice to carrying out our PTSA's mission. You can self-nominate or nominate someone you believe in! 

The following positions are open for nominations:

• President
• VP of Community
• VP of Outreach
• VP of Communications
• VP of Fundraising
• Secretary
• Treasurer 1
• Treasurer 2

Position descriptions can be accessed here or here. Position training will be provided. Nominations for the 2024-2025 International School PTSA Board can be sent to nominations@isptsa.org. You can volunteer for more than one position, but please rank them in order of preference.

Questions? Contact the Nominations Committee.

STAFF APPRECIATION WEEK CHAIR NEEDED!

Join our team as the Staff Appreciation Week Chair! Coordinate events to honor our hardworking staff during the week of Monday, May 6 through Friday, May 10. Work closely with the various Grade Level Reps and our Co-VP's of Community to help show our staff how much we love and appreciate all they do for us. Have questions or want to volunteer? Email VPCommunity@isptsa.org.

BELLEVUE PTSA COUNCIL NEWS

SPECIAL EDUCATION FAMILY RESOURCE SESSION: INSIGHTS INTO POSITIVE COMMUNICATION AMONG IEP TEAMS: A PANEL PERSPECTIVE



BSD Special Ed. Department & the Bellevue Special Needs PTA presents: Insights into Positive Communication Among IEP Teams: A Panel Perspective. Read more and RSVP here. Questions? Email specialedfamilyres@bsd405.org.

PARENT EDUCATION INTEREST SURVEY: MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING

Hello Bellevue Families: The Bellevue PTSA Council, representing all PTAs in our vibrant community, is partnering with the BSD Mental Health Assistance Team to better understand your mental health & wellness needs. We invite you to share your valuable insights by filling out our brief survey to help tailor an upcoming Parent Education Series. Please complete the survey by Friday, March 22. Your input makes a difference! Thank you for being a crucial part of this important conversation. Click here for the Survey link.

Questions? Contact Kristi Schwesinger, Bellevue PTSA Council Health & Wellness.

NOMINATIONS FOR BELLEVUE PTSA COUNCIL AWARDS

It's that time of year again! Please take some time to nominate one of our incredible volunteers/educators/community members for one of our PTSA Council Awards.

Have you thought about someone, or a group, that has made an impact on education, students, or our community this year, or maybe over multiple years, in any of the following categories?

•  Outstanding Advocate
•  Outstanding Educator
•  Outstanding Service
•  Golden Acorn
•  Honorary Lifetime Member (usually given to someone exiting BSD)
•  Friend of Children
•  Friend of Council

Descriptions can be found here. Nominate them here! We truly appreciate your participation, and value your submission. Questions? Contact them via their website here.

WASHINGTON STATE PTA NEWS

WSPTA RECOGNIZED BY NATIONAL PTA FOR ADVOCACY EFFORTS

Washington State PTA is proud to be the 2024 recipient of the Outstanding State PTA Advocacy Award, as recognized by National PTA.

This honor is awarded to one state PTA whose efforts positively affected legislative and/or regulatory policy aligned with National PTA’s current public policy platform, such as family engagement, school safety, welcoming/inclusive schools, and digital safety.

Read more here. Questions? Email support@wastatepta.org.

NATIONAL PTA NEWS

NOTES FROM THE BACKPACK

Real Experts. Real Parents. Real Conversations.

A Podcast for Parents, by Parents. Notes from the Backpack is a PTA podcast designed for millions of parents and the decision-makers they influence.

Latest Episode: Inspiring Tomorrow’s Leaders to Do Something

From addressing climate change to destigmatizing mental health issues, young people are stepping up as leaders to create a better world. Our hosts talked with DeNora Getachew, CEO of DoSomething.org, to learn how we can empower youth to create change. DeNora shares about the causes most important to young people, how they're getting involved and what families and educators can do to encourage service learning. Listen here. Questions? Contact info@pta.org.

RESCHEDULED: TITAN PLAYERS PRESENT AMELIE THE MUSICAL



Due to the amount of drama students who have recently become ill, the Friday, March 8 and Saturday, March 9 shows have been rescheduled for THIS Saturday, March 23 (2 PM and 7 PM).

If you have previously purchased tickets online, here is what this means:

• Tickets previously purchased for the 7 PM show on Friday, March 8 can be exchanged for the 2 PM or 7 PM show on Saturday, March 23. If this is convenient for you, please contact Renuka Getchell with your show preference at renukakg@hotmail.com and include “Amelie” in the subject line.
• Tickets previously purchased for the 7 PM show on Saturday, March 9 will automatically be moved to the 7PM show on Saturday, March 23. If this is convenient for you, there is no action needed.
• Tickets previously purchased for the 2 PM show on Saturday, March 9 will automatically be moved to the 2 PM show on Saturday, March 23. If this is convenient for you, there is no action needed.
• If you are unable to make the show on the new date/time or would like to switch to the other show, please contact Renuka Getchell at renukakg@hotmail.com and include “Amelie” in the subject line.

We apologize for any inconvenience, but want to make sure that the students who have worked so hard to prepare for this performance have the opportunity to perform for family and friends.

If you have not bought tickets, they will still be available at the door for cash on Saturday, March 23.

Questions? Contact Renuka Getchell.

CONGRATULATIONS, IJAZZ MEMBERS!

Seven iJazz students received an Outstanding Musicianship Award at the DeMiero Jazz Festival on March 8: Ella Garris, Calla Dang, Isaac Cook, Hansen Wang, Ian Choy, Lucas Ma, Rui Sun.

For questions about iJazz, email Joanne Whang, Choir Director. 

MAIN OFFICE ADULT VOLUNTEERS

Ever wanted to see what is going on at school? Want to get to know our amazing IS Staff and help support their hard working efforts? Volunteer to work in the main office! Shifts are 2 to 3 hours once every other week.

Available Shifts:

• Mondays: 12:15-3:15 PM
• Wednesdays: 8:15-10:15 AM
• Thursdays: 11:30 AM-1:30 PM

All shifts are every other week!

If you would like to volunteer or have any questions please contact Mary Pyrah, IS Office Manager.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL UPDATE

An International School Update was sent through email on Monday, March 11 to all current IS families with great updates. Questions? Email the IS Main Office.

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

BELLEVUE YOUTH LINK

Bellevue Youth Link is a youth leadership and community service program co-sponsored by the city and Bellevue School District. Since 1990, Youth Link has been giving youth in our community a voice and opportunity to create change. There are many ways to get involved!

• 34th Annual Community Leadership Awards – Educators, community members, parents and other adults may nominate a student in Bellevue. Students are welcome to nominate their peers. Nominations will be open until Friday, May 3, 2024. Award event on Wednesday, May 22 from 6-8 pm at Bellevue City Hall. Community Leadership Awards | City of Bellevue (bellevuewa.gov).
• 2024-2026 Youth Link Board Application – Currently accepting youth and adult board applications until Wednesday, May 15.  Youth Link Board Youth Application | City of Bellevue (bellevuewa.gov).
• 2023-2024 Bellevue Youth Council Application Form Bellevue Youth Council Application | City of Bellevue (bellevuewa.gov)

Questions? Email youthlink@bellevuewa.gov.

FREE LIFEGUARD TRAINING

Would you like to learn a skill that could save lives?

Our region is in short supply of lifeguards and swim instructors. We’d like to do our part to increase the number of lifeguards and provide high school students the opportunity to not only learn lifesaving skills, but also seek employment as a lifeguard or swim instructor at our local pools and beaches.

SPLASHForward is sponsoring lifeguard training for high school students. We cover the cost of your certification and provide you with resources to find a job. If you are unsure of your swim skills, we are happy to work with you so you can practice or acquire the skills. You can specify this when you sign up. You must be 15yrs old by the last day of the lifeguard training course. Sign up is on a first come first serve basis. Find out more information here and sign up here.

STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE - ESTABLISHING A PROBLEM STATEMENT

Over the past several months, the Strategic Plan Guiding Coalition has been engaging in an inclusive design process to co-create the next five-year strategic plan. After thoughtful deliberation and collaboration, the Coalition formed consensus on a problem statement. Read more here. Questions? Contact BSD.

BSD COMMUNITY CELEBRATES SPRING WITH TRADITION, FAITH, AND JOY

THIS Tuesday, March 19 marks the start of the spring equinox during which time our learning community will celebrate the season with a diverse array of festivals and traditions. Celebrations may be social, cultural or religious. The Bellevue School District seeks to affirm the identities of our students, staff and community as they welcome the season of rebirth, renewal and reflection. Read more here. Questions? Contact BSD.

BSD NEWSLETTER

An e-newsletter was sent to BSD staff and families on Thursday, March 14. Learn about the 2024 College Conference Series, nominate someone or apply to join the school board, sign up to attend informational events, and more. Read it here. Don't receive the district newsletter? Sign up here! You can see all newsletters here. Questions? Contact BSD.

IT'S ALMOST HERE! SPRING FOR SCHOOLS 2024

• When: Saturday, March 30, 5 PM - 8 PM
• Where: Meydenbauer Center, 11100 Northeast 6th Street, Bellevue, Washington 98004
• Cost: FREE

Join us as we cultivate the next generation with a garden party! Funding raised through Spring for Schools yields critical programming in Bellevue School District. Our annual fundraiser joins community leaders, corporate stakeholders, and philanthropic individuals who are committed to making sure that all 18,000+ students at 28 schools in the District can blossom through programs and enrichment opportunities critical to their growth as students and future leaders of our community. Join or host a table, get a drink and meal with friends, and stroll through the showcase of student work that our donors support.

THIS EVENT IS FOR ADULTS ONLY!

Questions? Email info@bsfdn.org.

VOLUNTEER WITH BACKPACK MEALS FOR KIDS

Every day, children are going hungry… even in Bellevue. Close to 250 students are known to be homeless. Approximately 3400 (17%) students qualify for free or reduced meals, including 57% of children at one elementary school, 44% at one middle school, and 38% in one high school. For many students, the only meal they get is at school. On the weekend, they go hungry. Backpack Meals is there to fill in the gap.

Volunteers entirely run Backpack Meals for Kids. If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out the volunteer notification form. We will call you when there is a food packing or distribution opportunity.

Other ways you can help:

Please invite your friends to support us through a donation. Backpack Meals is 100% volunteer-run with no overhead. All funding goes toward food and the expansion of the program. Share the story of Backpack Meals for Kids with your friends and invite them to contribute.

Questions? Email backpackmeals@backpackmeals.org.

SHINE ON SEATTLE

Discover the enchanting world of light art in Pioneer Square this winter season. Join LUSIO and the Downtown Seattle Association as we bring you dazzling exhibits that will illuminate window storefronts, parks and other outdoor spaces in this historic area. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of light during the darkest months of the year. Embark on a brief walking tour showcasing talented local light artists with their unique styles and mediums.

• When: March 1 - April 30
• Where: Pioneer Square, Seattle, WA 98104
• Cost: FREE

Get ready to be captivated and allow the light to guide your path. Find out more info here. Questions? Contact them via their website.

SHOW YOUR SCHOOL SPIRIT!

Check out our wide variety of International School spiritwear! Hoodies, T-shirts, bags, and more, order now! You can pick up your order from Winner's Sportswear in Bellevue or have it delivered. Questions? Email Melissa Richardson, VP of Outreach.

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.