International School PTSA supports several programs that enhance our school's unique curriculum and culture. We also offer students the opportunity to participate national PTSA programs.


NEW!! Rachel's Challenge
The PTSA is excited to bring this nationally-renowned social training program to International School. So, who who is Rachel? Rachel Scott was the first person killed during the tragic Columbine High School shootings. Her friends and family remember her as a positive, inclusive role model and created this program in her honor. The mission is:

"We exist to inspire, equip and empower every person to create a permanent positive culture change in their school, business and community by starting a chain reaction of kindness and compassion."
-- Rachel's Challenge Mission Statement

For more information on this program, please visit the Rachel's Challenge Website. 

6th Grade Retreat
At the beginning of each year, the PTSA supports a one-day retreat at a nearby park for the entire 6th grade class. Because International students come from all over the city, meeting new friends is important. In addition to a variety of social activities, teachers provide insights to school culture and curriculum so every student is prepared to be successful at International.

Buddy Lunch Program 
After the lottery each spring, 5th graders who will attend IS are invited to a barbecue where they are assigned a "buddy."  Buddies are current IS students who will help the soon-to-be 6th graders learn the ropes during the first week of school. Many buddy partnerships continue well after the older student has graduated. Periodically throughout the school year, Buddy Lunch days are held to provide students the opportunity to check in with each other and catch up.

Foreign Language Interns
At IS, students take seven years of seven core subjects. One of these subjects is foreign language and IS sponsors several foreign language interns each year. IS families provide housing, and the PTSA provides a monthly stipend to each intern as well as covering the cost of a travel visa and a metro bus pass. The interns provide a value opportunity for students to work on their foreign language skills with a native speaker and to learn about the culture of the intern's home country.

High School Retreat
Every September, the 9th grade class heads to the hills for a two-day retreat. Here they learn what to expect for the next four years. Teachers discuss the curriculum, what's different from middle school and even look ahead to college. The PTSA supports this program in order to prepare each student for the rigorous challenge ahead.

Reflections
Reflections is a National PTA program intended to support the arts. It was founded at a time when arts programs nationwide were being cut due to budget shortfalls. PTA wanted to encourage students to continue exploring the arts and introduced this annual program. As one of the seven core subjects at International School, art and music are very important at IS. For more information about this program, please visit the Reflections Page on the Washington State PTA site. For the 2011-2012 Reflections Packet, click here.