UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS
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THIS WEEK:
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Monday, 5/1–Friday, 5/12 • AP Testing*
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Friday, 5/5, 7–8:30 PM • Middle School Social Night*
NEXT WEEK:
- Monday, 5/8–Friday, 5/12 • Staff Appreciation Week*
- Tuesday, 5/9, 6:40 PM • International School at the Mariners Game (MS Choir Will Perform the National Anthem)
- Saturday, 5/13 • Prom*
LOOKING AHEAD:
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Monday, 5/15–Friday, 5/19 • State Testing (SBA)
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Wednesday, 5/17 • Senior Project Board Day
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Saturday, 5/20–Saturday, 6/3 • French Exchange
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Monday, 5/22–Friday, 5/26 • Focus Week
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Monday, 5/29 • No School: Memorial Day
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Thursday, 6/1, 6:30–8:30 PM • ISPTSA General Meeting and Free Catered Dinner*
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Monday, 6/5, 7 PM • HS Choir Concert
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Tuesday, 6/6, 7 PM • MS Choir Concert
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Wednesday, 6/7, 7 PM • MS Orchestra Concert
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Thursday, 6/8, 7 PM • HS Orchestra Concert
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Friday, 6/9, 8-10:30 PM • Déjeuner en Blanc: Moving Up Dance
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Monday, 6/12, 7 PM • HS Band Concert
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Tuesday, 6/13, 7 PM • MS Band Concert
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Wednesday, 6/14, 9 AM • Last Day for Seniors
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Thursday, 6/15, 7 PM • Class of 2023 Commencement @ Interlake HS
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Friday, 6/16 • Laptop Collection for Grades 6-11
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Monday, 6/19 • No School: Juneteenth
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Thursday, 6/22 • Last Day of School
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Thursday, 8/24 • Back to Business Day
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Tuesday, 9/5 • School Starts
Click here to view the District 2022–2023 calendar for families.
*More information in the message below
Orange denotes new/updated calendar entries.
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INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PTSA NEWS
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Hello Everyone,
What a glorious weekend we just had. So keeping with the positive tone here, the Bellevue School District is planning to utilize the closed elementary schools for two choice schools: Jing Mei and Big Picture. Notice that International is not in the discussion yet? That is a good thing. We are a strong community and we need to stay strong as negative opinions of choice, lottery-based, unique curriculums can abound in a time of change. Our strengths are in our teaching staff, our students, and our community of supporters. Our time will come for discussions of our future facility needs and it is not now, but know that it will be coming. Please mark your calendars for June 1 for our PTSA membership meeting with a free dinner, all are welcome.
Thank you,
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ISPTSA 2023-2024 BOARD NOMINATIONS
The 2023-2024 Board is still looking for a Co-VP of Community and a Co-Secretary.
A Co position means that you will be working with someone else, not by yourself. If you are worried about not knowing something, don't be, because many of the current board members are returning and you will not be alone. International has a very strong, involved PTSA and we would love to have you join us in supporting our children, our teachers, and our school. Meet new people, make new friends, and discover what is happening at our school and in our district. Join the 2023-2024 International School PTSA Board and be an active participant in shaping our community!
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STAFF APPRECIATION WEEK GIFT CARD DONATION DRIVE
Staff Appreciation Week is May 8–12 and we would like to take this opportunity to show our appreciation for the hard work and dedication of our staff. Please help us in making this week special for our teachers and staff by participating in a gift card donation drive.
We are asking for voluntary donations of physical gift cards of $10 each. You can sign up for multiple slots. For example, if you sign up for 3 slots buy 3 $10 gift cards. Please drop off your donation at school by May 10 (there is a box labeled "teacher appreciation gift card drop off" inside the office). We will distribute them to our teachers and staff during Staff Appreciation Week.
We also need volunteers to help with various things during Staff Appreciation Week.
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Thank you for your support and for helping us show our amazing staff how much we appreciate all that they do. Questions? Contact the Staff Appreciation Committee.
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APPRECIATION WEEK!
The ISPTSA and community are very excited to celebrate our fabulous IS Staff, the second week of May (May 8–12)! This appreciation week has been planned with the following:
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Monday 5/8 – Top Pot donuts, Top Pot to go Coffee
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Tuesday 5/9 – Panera Bagels, Fruits & Juice
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Wednesday 5/10 – staff appreciation lunch hosted by 10th grade (sign-up sheet)
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Thursday 5/11 – French bakery Pastries, Smoothies
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Friday 5/12 – Gift certificates/Thank you notes from students. Sign up here-Gift Card Donation and sponsor GC gifts for our IS staff
We'll also need volunteers to help organize for the week of May 8 – 12. Please sign up here.
Thank you as always!!
Staff Appreciation Committee
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ISPTSA GENERAL MEETING AND FREE CATERED DINNER
The ISPTSA General Meeting will be Thursday, June 1, 6:30–8:30 PM. Please join us for the final general meeting of the year and a free catered dinner. We will be voting on next year's slate of board members and budget, plus more! Please save the date and plan to be there to help us make some very important decisions and to eat some good food. Questions? Contact President@isptsa.org.
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TAKING NOMINATIONS FOR THE GOLDEN ACORN AWARD
- 2021-2022 Emilie Castle & Melissa Richardson
- 2020–2021 Julie Molinari & Meribeth Nordloef-Pedersen
- 2019–2020 Li Wu
- 2018–2019 Sylvia Abrahamsson
- 2017–2018 Sue Bentsen & Sally Fouche
- 2015–2016 Betsy Johnson
- 2014–2015 Marian McDermott
These are some of our past Golden Acorn recipients, nominated by parents, teachers, and friends. Do you know someone who works for the success of our IS students and community? Golden Acorn is a high honor awarded annually by the ISPTSA since 1994 to a school or community volunteer in recognition of their dedication and service to children and youth. Please take a moment to nominate a parent or teacher for this award by sending an email to golden-acorn-nomination@isptsa.org.
The committee will be accepting nominations until Wednesday, May 24. Questions? Email the Golden Acorn Committee.
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REFLECTIONS ART ENTRIES
IS had some truly amazing art entries this year. If you would like to see them all you may do so here. Questions? Contact Reflections@isptsa.org.
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WASHINGTON STATE PTSA NEWS
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Any PTSA member is encouraged to submit an issue, resolution, or legislative principle that addresses concerns that affect children on a state-wide level. Delegates will debate and vote on these submissions and whether to add them to our Washington State PTSA platform.
The submission process is OPEN NOW through June 1 at noon. Please see complete instructions and deadlines for submitting at the bottom of the following pages:
Questions? Contact support@wastatepta.org
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NOTES FROM THE BACKPACK: A PODCAST FOR PARENTS, BY PARENTS
Real Experts. Real Parents. Real Conversations.
Notes from the Backpack is a PTA podcast designed for millions of parents and the decision-makers they influence.
Through the unique combination of expert, parent, and educator guests, each episode features engaging conversations that offer real-life advice and ideas on how to support children’s learning and development—all in parent-friendly language.
There is so much children can learn from the great outdoors! We spoke with Bianca Myrick, executive director of the Virginia Association of Environmental Education to learn how families can explore the environment together and raise kids who care for the planet. Bianca shares ideas on how you can replace screentime with green time at home and advocate for environmental education in your child’s school. Questions? Contact info@pta.org.
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CRACKING THE CODE – PRACTICAL TIPS FOR PARENTS IN THE AGE OF DIGITAL INFORMATION
- FREE Webinar hosted by the National PTA
- Monday, May 8 at 4 PM
Join Dr. Megan Barber, media expert and parent of two, virtually at 4 PM as she walks through tips and resources to learn how to be an expert decoder of the information you receive and how this skill can translate to more productive school conversations. Questions? Contact info@pta.org.
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INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NEWS
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GOOD LUCK TO OUR AP EXAM TAKERS!
Regular testing runs May 1-12. This will lead to some disruptions for all in our building as some hallways and public spaces will be closed. We’ll have onsite testing May 2, 3, and 11. Students’ MyAP accounts show the latest test date information, and they should check the email listed in their MyAP profile for updates. More information, including test locations and schedule, can be found here. Students are pre-excused during testing but are expected to attend classes when not testing. See the schedule for release times. Students report at 7:30 AM for AM tests and 12:30 PM for PM tests. Questions? Contact Jill Follett.
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PROM NEEDS YOUR HELP!
The long-awaited High School Prom is coming up on May 13 at the Seattle Asian Art Museum! We are reaching out because we need your help with Prom funds!
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Due to the pandemic, we were unable to have any fundraisers for 3 years which unfortunately hurt our class budget significantly. We're asking if all the parents could donate $25-30 to help cover Prom expenses. In addition, we hope that you encourage your students to purchase Prom tickets as this will be the final dance of our High School years. We greatly need everyone's help.
Thank you so much,
Senior Class ASB Officers
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MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCIAL NIGHT
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THIS Friday, May 5 from 7- 8:30 PM.
The theme is Glow Gala. The evening will have music, games, karaoke, and more! The cost is $10 with an ASB card and $12 without. Hope to see you there! Questions? Contact Matt Lyon.
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INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PROM
- $65 with an ASB card
- $70 without an ASB card
This is the last week to buy tickets! Final attendance for the event must be confirmed by THIS Friday, May 5.
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CALLING ALL KITCHENAID STAND MIXERS!
The cake decorating class needs to borrow your KitchenAid Stand Mixer during focus week to mix delicious confections. If you are willing to loan us your mixer for the week, please kindly email Janet Towne at townej@bsd405.org. Your mixer will be well cared for and returned to you clean and in good condition. Thank you for your generous support of one of International School’s most popular Focus Week classes! Questions? Contact Janet Towne.
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CLASS OF 2023 ALL-NIGHT GRAD PARTY – TICKETS ON SALE NOW
The 2023 All-Night Grad Party is a tradition at International School and a senior celebration highlight. Seniors will be transported after the graduation ceremony on June 15 and enjoy a FUN-filled night of celebration with non-stop entertainment, food, and music all night long to two secret locations! It is one of the last opportunities to be together as a class.
Please click on the link to view detailed information on how to purchase tickets, make payments, and fill out the required forms.
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The 2023 All-Night Grad Party is funded through ticket sales and fundraisers that the Class of 2023 Parent Graduation Committee has been raising all year. The ticket cost per student is $275. Full and partial scholarships are available! Please contact Jill Follett at follettj@bsd405.org. All information is confidential. We want all seniors to have the opportunity to attend! Ticket sales end June 1, so purchase tickets now!
New This Year: the ticket price also includes a beautiful hydrangea for each senior to be used to decorate the stage at Senior Celebration and Graduation, and then given to each senior to take home and plant in their yard. For questions, please email Patti McKnight at pmcknight5@gmail.com.
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THANK YOU FROM THE GARDEN CLUB!
Thank you to the community for your generous donations and to the volunteers who helped on planting day, April 19, to work on Serena's Garden. Serena's mother Sunny Cao brought delicious wontons and green tea. Northwest Perennial Alliance president Tere Kaulfus provided invaluable advice on planting and shrub care. It was an afternoon of sharing, remembering, and connecting, graced by a few unexpected rays of sunshine. Questions? Contact Gwen Geslin.
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CONGRATS iJAZZ!
iJazz participated in the Columbia Basin College Vocal Jazz competition on April 22. We received 2nd place in our division and eight students received Outstanding Musicianship Awards: Isaac Cook, Sofie Fenstermacher, Rachel He, Tyler Lombardo, Jack Molinari, Jayna Laserna, Troxell Selph and Hilary Yu. Questions? Contact Joanne Whang.
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STUDENT NEWS & OPPORTUNITIES
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YOUTH LINK BOARD - CITY OF BELLEVUE
The city of Bellevue is looking for youth candidates (high schoolers) to participate in the Bellevue Youth Link Board. Applications are due by MAY 15.
This is a great advocacy opportunity for our students! The Youth Link Board promotes diversity, unity, and equity for high school youth in Bellevue. Current board work focuses on priorities such as youth mental health, transitional support, youth financial education and employment equity, environmental sustainability, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. More information can be found here. Questions? Email palina@bellevuewa.gov.
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BELLEVUE SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
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BECOME A SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER!
Are you interested in student, staff, and community well-being? Consider a candidacy for becoming a school board director.
Candidates who are interested in running for a school board position must file a Declaration of Candidacy with the King County Elections office during the filing period. The filing period this year is May 15 through June 2. There is no filing fee for school board positions. For step-by-step instructions, please refer to King County’s Candidate Manual. Qualifications and additional resources can be found on the district’s Become a Board Member webpage.
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INCOMING SUPERINTENDENT ARAMAKI LOOKS AHEAD TO A FUTURE OF FLOURISHING IN THE BELLEVUE SCHOOL DISTRICT
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Incoming Superintendent Dr. Kelly Aramaki, shares his commitment to district staff, students, and families, his vision for the district, and the five priorities that will help us get there. Find out more info here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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EVERGREEN TRANSITION PROGRAM CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Construction of the new Evergreen Transition Program building began in January 2023. This project is located near Highland Middle School and is designed as a two-story building to provide experiential learning opportunities for young adults with disabilities ages 18-21, to foster independence in the areas of employment, education/training and life skills. The Evergreen Transition Program is currently located on the Interlake High School campus.
The project is bond-funded and is scheduled for completion in the fall of 2024. The Evergreen Transition Program’s new home is designed to be the district’s second Net-Zero building. Find out more info here. Questions? Contact BSD.
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CAMLANN MEDIEVAL MAY DAY FESTIVAL
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Date: THIS Saturday & Sunday, May 6 & 7, 12:00 PM–5:00 PM
- Price: $8-$10; (Feast and Festival $50); Ages 5 and Under Free
- Location: Camlann Medieval Village
Questions? Call 425-788-8624.
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CINCO DE MAYO WITH CENTRO CULTURAL MEXICANO
Centro Cultural Mexicano invites you to join us at our annual Cinco de Mayo event at Redmond Downtown Park! This free, family-friendly cultural celebration highlights traditional Mexican culture, music, and food through seven hours of entertainment. We welcome you to be part of our event this year!
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Date: THIS Sunday, May 7, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Price: FREE
- Location: Downtown Redmond Park
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POLLINATOR FEST!
- When: Saturday, May 13 @ 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
- Price: Free
- Where: 21 Acres Center for Local Food and Sustainable Living, Woodinville
21 Acres will be buzzing with festive activities for the whole family at Pollinator Fest! Organized by POLLINATOR PATHWAY NW, there will be pollinator-themed presentations, a children’s Farm Tour, a Spring Market on our patio (where you can meet local farmers and artisan makers and purchase fresh, pesticide-free food and beautiful, handmade gifts), as well as music, food and more. Learn how to take direct action in your own yard to nurture pollinators of all kinds, which are critically important to our local food systems.
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ANNIE, THE MUSICAL
- May 18 at 7 PM
- May 19 at 7 PM
- May 20 at 2 PM
- Newport High School Performing Art Center
Help support Tyee Middle School by joining us for this exciting musical journey. Online ticket sales start now. If you prefer to pay by cash or check, you can do so at Tyee Commons during lunchtime from May 15-18, or one hour before each show time at the door. Please bring proof of purchase when picking up your tickets at Tyee Commons during lunchtime from May 15th-18th or one hour before each show time at the door. We can't wait to see you there! Questions? Contact Ailin Zhang.
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SMITH BROTHERS FARMS MILK FUND PROGRAMS
Start 2023 off with some stress relief for yourself! Signup 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.
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MASTHEAD / DIRECTORY / LINKS
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Serving International School in the Bellevue School District
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President
Secretary
Treasurer 1
Treasurer 2
VP of Communications
VP's of Community
VP's of Fundraising
VP's of Outreach
Membership Chair
Grants
OPEN
Monday Messenger
Website
IS Staff Liaison
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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
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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.
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SUPPORT YOUR PTSA
Donate Anytime!
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Please note that PayPal has transaction fees.
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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.
- Please limit articles to 600 characters including spaces.
- Please include contact information for questions from readers.
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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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