“ From the moment we joined IST , we felt a sense of belonging , not just as parents , but as a family . Our child feels truly seen , supported , and loved by their teachers every single day . It ’ s a place where they ’ re not only learning , but growing in confidence , kindness , and joy . We honestly couldn ’ t imagine a better school community .”
“From IST, we felt a sense of belonging, not just as parents, but as a family. Our child feels truly seen, supported, day. It’s they’re learning, but growing in confidence, kindness, and joy. We couldn’t community.”
- IST parent
-IST
“IST was more than just a school for our child, it was the place where their dreams took root. The IB curriculum challenged and inspired them, while the caring teachers and vibrant community at IST nurtured their curiosity and confidence. It truly set the tone for a lifelong love of learning. Looking back, we see IST as the launchpad for everything they’ve achieved since — and we couldn’t be more grateful”
- IST alumni family
Our Mission
We cultivate a respectful, global community that instills students with integrity, confidence, and intellect in pursuit of improving themselves and serving the world around them.
Our Vision
To build an innovative and enduring institution that provides an exceptional education.
A Message from The Head of School
Dear Parents and Friends of The International School of Texas,
As I hope you have all noticed, we have enjoyed a first-class beginning to the new school year. My colleagues and I are excited to note how quickly and effectively students have organized themselves to work well and to enjoy the challenges set in each of their subject areas. As we prepare for IB Diploma implementation in August 2026, our whole school is focused on delivery of the school’s academic mission across all grades in an engaging and accessible way for our students to experience success and fulfillment every day.
It is this level of professional commitment of our faculty, which I am so delighted to see so beautifully mirrored in our parents’ absolutely wonderful commitment of time, donations, and financial contributions to the school. Just magnificent!
Every one of us at IST is exceedingly grateful to every one of you who has exhibited such practical support for our school over the past year. I cannot tell you how encouraging that level of practical parental affirmation feels to all my colleagues at IST.
Good schools understand the Janus-like position they occupy as educators of children and young adults. We must be at once grounded in tradition (to foster the sense of predictability and security which good learning requires), while inspiring and challenging students to branch out and embrace the future.
IST’s commitment to preparing our students for the world beyond our campus is matched only by our understanding of the need to match curricular progress with respect for tradition and character. Awareness of what a grade 3 or 4 student might need in ten years’ time when he or she graduates, both from the viewpoint of skill set, as well as character values, is a sign that your school is on the right track.
I join with my Board Chair, Mrs. Yacktman, in offering my sincere thanks to you all for your vital financial contributions towards this vision, and for your partnership in making it a reality for all our children. Thank you for your confidence and continuing support of The International School of Texas.
With kindest regards,
Dr. David Watson Head of School
“Our
choice to support IST was simple. Our kids are happy and they love coming to school every single day. IST has brought the joy of learning back to our household, and we are so grateful.”
-IST Parent
Investing in Excellence
Investing in Excellence
The extraordinary generosity of our community, which raised over $500,000 in donations last year, continues to sustain our school and our growth. Your contributions have been instrumental in strengthening our school’s financial position, while investing in strategic growth. While the following lists are not exhaustive of every single award, project, and initiative, they are representative of the quality made only possible by your generosity.
Thanks to the community’s generous support last school year we were able to establish and accomplish the following school-wide:
Launched the inaugural Trip Week, emphasizing travel and global experiences as a core component of an IST education
Released a new Strategic Plan, “Forging Our Future,” identifying key areas of focus for innovation, development, and growth
Recruited new, highly experienced teachers for our Music Department
Recruited top tier teachers to support continued MYP and DP growth, including English, Science, and Mathematics while focusing on retention and professional growth in the Primary Division
Increased salaries to maintain our position as a leading contender in attracting and retaining top talent
Covered essential IB fees and invested in DP consulting, allowing us to continue the path toward accreditation to offer the IB Diploma Programme
Invested in operational technology upgrades and enhancements, including Veracross, a new website, and alignment of current systems including Toddle
Constructed a new playground
Reallocated classroom space to better support growth of the student body and right-size support staff office space
Enhanced and sustained cultural events, including Holi, Sports Day, Lunar New Year, Black History Month, Texas State Fair, and more
Expanded opportunities for students to get involved with designing and planning IST’s Yearbook
Hosted a site visit and collaborated on planning with an IB Consultant for the IBDP
Academics, Curriculum, & Instruction
Sent two of our Primary Division teachers, Ms. Bridges and Ms. Munson, to the IB Conference for professional development focused on lines of inquiry and unit planning
Sent members of our Leadership Team to conferences and professional development with the National Association of Independent Schools and NBOA: Business Leadership for Independent Schools.
Sent Ms. Passi, Primary STEM Teacher, and Bach Ngo, IT Systems Administrator, to the TCEA Convention to learn about the latest innovations in school technology
Added 2,912 books to our Library’s collection
Earned numerous honors in regional and state art competitions, including Alan Radford in the Texas Fish Art Contest
Welcomed The Kindness Campaign and author Andra Liemandt to IST for a book reading and presentation
Aligned curriculum in the Primary Division, allowing teachers to develop and enhance grade level planning while identifying areas of growth and expansion of depth
Hosted five parent forums, Under the Oaks, to focus on and discuss whole-child development, curriculum and testing updates, and IB programming and benefits
Collectively, our students took over 50 academic field trips throughout the Central Texas region, expanding learning and applying knowledge to the real world.
Co-Curricular Activities & Service
Collected over 4,000 pounds of non-perishable food items for the Central Texas Food Bank as part of our annual Fall Harvest Festival
Students constructed 10 light displays for IST’s first ever “Trail of Lights,” presented by North Star Electric
Our Grade 5 Destination Imagination Team placed in the top three at the DI Global Finals, competing against over 1,500 teams from 27 countries. Prior to Globals, the same team earned top honors at both the Regional and State competitions, receiving the Renaissance Award for innovation
Our RoboBlazers robotics team earned first place for their innovation project at the FIRST LEGO League Robotics competition, in which they researched, designed, and built a 3Dprinted robot model to clean algae off coral reefs and prevent bleaching
Our Trailblazer Blue robotics team earned the Rising Star Award at the regional competition for demonstrating exceptional collaboration, teamwork, and communication skills
Presented our first play in the new PAAC, “Fairytale Courtroom”
Hosted our first high school formal dance in partnership with Magellan International School
Our international family trip to Peru allowed families and students to connect with another IB school while learning all about the culture, history, and geography of the country
As part of trip week, students traveled to NASA Space Center in Houston, Big Bend National Park, the Teton Science School in Wyoming, Costa Rica, and Europe
Athletics
Purchased new:
Uniforms for Volleyball, Cross Country, and Basketball Wrestling and Cheer mats for practice and competition Trophy Case for the Performing Arts & Athletics Center
Invested in safety netting around the retention pond and soccer field
Established a brand partnership with Under Armor, in partnership with Communications and Marketing, allowing exclusive access for uniforms and apparel needs
Hosted over 100 athletic events in the PAAC for both IST and for our conference, welcoming visitors from all over the region
Total Revenue
Total Expenses
Donations
Giving Together Growing Together
Giving at IST
At IST, giving is woven into the fabric of who we are. It reflects the spirit of our community, one built on compassion, connection, and a shared commitment to seeing every student flourish. As an IB school, we nurture learners who are not only curious and courageous, but also kind, mindful, and ready to make a difference in the world.
This begins with our families. Our parents lead with open hearts, generously offering their time, resources, and talents to uplift our school. They show our children what it means to be thoughtful, giving, and engaged citizens. Whether it's helping in the classroom, supporting school-wide initiatives, or simply showing up when it matters most, the IST community consistently models what it means to give with purpose.
IST is more than just a school, it’s a family. It’s a place where relationships are strong, support is abundant, and every child is known and valued. Through our shared culture of generosity, we ensure that all Trailblazers, past, present, and future are empowered to reach their full potential.
The World Awaits Gala 2025
On April 5, 2025, we held our annual gala, "The World Awaits," and what an unforgettable evening it was! Our community came together in a truly magical way, transforming the new school gym into a stunning celebration space filled with energy, elegance, and joy. The evening was a beautiful reminder of the power of unity, generosity, and shared vision.
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible Gala Chairs, Jenn McClain De Jong and Tasha Yacktman, the dedicated Gala Committee, our generous Sponsors, and every one of our attendees. Your support, creativity, and enthusiasm helped make this night one for the books, and one that will inspire us for years to come.
With hearts full and eyes forward, we step boldly into the future, because the world awaits.
The Trailblazer Fund
Each year, the Trailblazer Fund plays a pivotal role in supporting the International School of Texas. This annual fund helps close the gap between tuition and the actual cost of delivering a world-class IB education.
Your contributions, no matter the size. make a meaningful impact. The Trailblazer Fund supports not only our exceptional teachers but also essential operational expenses and many other key areas that enhance the student experience.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who has shown their support. Your generosity helps us continue to provide outstanding opportunities for our students to thrive.
Thank you for being part of our IST community.
Together, we blaze the trail forward.
Honoring the Generosity of Our Supporters
A Note of Gratitude
Dear Parents and Friends of The International School of Texas,
Every day, I am grateful for the opportunities provided by the beautiful classrooms, teaching spaces and inspirational teachers at our wonderful International School of Texas.
Our students love coming to school, whether they are just starting their young school careers or working towards college. IST aims to be a place where young minds are readied to make a difference in our community and where tomorrow’s good citizens and global leaders are prepared to meet real-world challenges with passion and purpose.
This is indeed a bold vision for our school.
However, it is your very practical financial support for that vision, which has been key to our remarkable progress over the past year.
It is my greatest honor, therefore, to thank you all for your loyalty, financial backing, donations and gifts to the IST Annual Fund over the past school year. Without your philanthropic goodwill and generous support of our school, IST would not be able to provide the multifarious opportunities which it does every day for all our children.
As an independent school, IST receives no state or federal funding of any kind. We set high standards for ourselves, and, with your outstanding support, we will continue to achieve the highest of goals. We are all in this together! Your participation in making a personally meaningful financial contribution to the IST Annual Fund every year is so very important to all our students and their teachers.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am humbled to extend my most sincere gratitude to all parents and donors who have shown such generosity, vision and loyalty to our school. Thank you!
We have so much to celebrate as a community. As we look to the future, we do so with excitement and anticipation for the possibilities that lie ahead. With the continuing, generous support of our donor community and the forward-looking approach of our school leaders, we know that IST will continue to provide an excellent educational experience for generations of Trailblazers to come.
With respect and gratitude,
T asha Y acktman C hair , B oard of T rustees
Tasha Yacktman Chair, Board of Trustees
At the Spring 2025 Volunteer Appreciation Celebration, IST proudly presented the inaugural Waterbury Service Award to volunteer librarian Anniina Jokinen.
Named in honor of the Waterbury Family, whose continued service, generosity, and operational support embody the spirit of IST, this annual award recognizes individuals who give generously of their time, talent, and heart to strengthen our community.
Anniina was a truly deserving first recipient. Volunteering more than 30 hours each week in the school library, she has transformed the space into a vibrant hub of literacy and learning. From coordinating and cataloging book acquisitions to organizing special reading events, themed weeks, and the IST Book Fair, Anniina’s leadership has helped cultivate a strong culture of reading across campus. She also leads and inspires a dedicated team of volunteers who support students’ love of books every day.
Congratulations to Anniina Jokinen and thank you for the extraordinary impact you make at IST.
Honoring Our Class Parent Leaders for the 2024-25 School Year
Honoring Our Class Parent Leaders for the 2024-25 School Year
JPK - Diane Kwon
JPK - Diane Kwon
PK - Crystal Thompson
PK - Crystal Thompson
K - Zoie Itkin
K - Zoie Itkin
1 - Bindia Shah
1 - Bindia Shah
2 - Sana Syed
2 - Sana Syed
3 - Ashlie Dulien
3 - Ashlie Dulien
4 - Becky Wells
4 - Becky Wells
5 - Rose Berg & Christy Griswold
5 - Rose Berg & Christy Griswold
6 - Kasey Johnson
6 - Kasey Johnson
7 - Michelle Waterbury
7 - Michelle Waterbury
8 - Breanna Sweeney
8 - Breanna Sweeney
9 - Aleisha Bourne
9 - Aleisha Bourne
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our entire team of volunteers, without whom our school could not thrive.
Thank you for your countless hours supporting our teachers, staff, students, and community.
Donor Recognition for the 2024-25 Year
Madeeha Abdulla & Atif Siddiqi
Irina & Michael Ajouz
Darcy & Christopher Barrow
Terilynn Babb
Ana Barbosa
Charissa & Jason Bates
Catherine & Cleve Bellar
Rosalie & Brian Berg
Farrah & Jay Bhattacharyya
Jeanette & Walter Bledsoe
Aleisha & Patrick Bourne
Judy Bowen
Stacy Boyd
Ansley Bridges
Kinsley Brunelli & Melissa Garcia
Thuy Bui
Gabryela Cardoso & Luciano Araujo
Sarah & Scott Cerreta
Stephen & Courtney Chen
Rahul Chhatwal & Jasmine Thakkar
Andrea & Richard Chung
Jared & Jessica Coleman
Brendan Costello & Diane Kwon
Bill & Meagan Cotton
Brian Couch
Michael Cowan & Harmony EdwardsCanfield
Jamie Craig
Daniela & Nathan Crair
Jenn & Jason De Jong
Connie & Shey Ditto
Anonymous
Ashlie & Louis Dulien
James Emley
Rachell & Tim Enger
Joe England
Sherry Espinosa
Magda & Michael Fazio
Carol & Rob Fondren
Kate & Mykal Fox
Bruce Furst
Zhuo Gao & Na Jia
Melissa Garcia
Corey Gayheart
Claudia Goldberg
Ali & Sara Golshani
Christy & Matt Griswold
Caroline & Jeremy Harris
Thomas & Andrewa Hawes
Amber & John Heim
Gayle & Steve Heintz
Ariel & Tommie Hobbs
Karen Hoffman
Brandy Hoopaugh
Ashley Swindle
Chad Hyatt
Zoie & Andrew Itkin
Fatou Jagne & Cherno Njie
Adam & Angela Jaskolski
Kasey & Michael Johnson
Anniina Jokinen & Vikram Phatak
Jason Jones
Lana Kaufman & Max Pustozvonov
Maha Khan & Hamza Saigol
Marina Khattak & Aly Orady
Cara & Vu Kong
Molly & Stephen Kosoris
Donor Recognition for the 2024-25 Year
Trish & Will Kruger
Laura & Ari Kuchinsky
Luis Landois Jr. & Nora Sanchez
Marlena Lee & Eric Cheung
Dean & Kristi Leipsner
Piotr & Malwina Lewko
Christina & Derek Lothringer
Luz Lunar
Ewelina MacDonald
Amy Mahjoory & Sean McNicholas
Shahbaz Malik & Sana Syed
Natalie Malnor
Sheree & Aaron Martin
Myra & Gregory McCullough
Victor & Sophia Menezes
Cynthia & Josh Miller
Pam & Tom Moore
Justin Mulloy
Justin Nelson & Maria Solovieva
Michael & Sherri Nicol
David & Patricia Nicol
Michelle Overman
Jennifer Passi
Thibault & Ludivine Patoux
Gene Racinskas
Madeline & Danielle Rapp
Ashley & Kirk Rasmussen
Emily & Michael Reich
Jeremy & Lindsay Rincon
Lindsay & Nathan Roberts
Anna & Russell Robinson
Sumaya Saati
Bradley & Christy Sadri
Hersh & Jenny Sanghavi
Bindia & Parag Shah
Magdalena & Bartlomiej Siemienczuk
Tim & Yara Sittler
Ben Snyder
Sara & Paul Solomon
Breanna & Colin Sweeney
Ashley Swindle
Anil & Priya Taneja
Danielle & Jay Taylor
David & Allison Teo
Allison & Dayne Thornicroft
Monique Threadgill
Ashley & Cody Tuck
Rhonda Tuck
Annie & Richard Tufton
Maria Ortiz & Jesus Vargas
Jason & Michelle Waterbury
Nicole & Steve Welch
Becky & Tyler Wells
Gavin & Thalia West
Brian & Tasha Yacktman
Kimberly & Michael Yacktman
The Yacktman Family Foundation
Every effort has been made to recognize donors according to their wishes – if we misspelled your name, you wish to remain anonymous, or any name needs correction, please contact Corey Gayheart at advancement@istexas.org or 512.351.3403.
2024-25 Sponsor Recognition
Zulfiya Gaziev
Austin Elite Gymnastics
Card My Yard
Bob Bullock Museum
Urban Air
Russell Korman Jewelers
Shipley Donuts
The Ajouz Family
Mitalena Artisan Coffee
Town & Country Golden Retrievers
Thinkery
Austin Bouldering Project
Amy Martin
Little Table of Grace
Hamilton Pool Vineyards
Antonelli's Cheese
Bruce and Terilynn Babb
Muse MedSpa
Total Wine
CYCED
Bricks & Minifigs
Anna Kraft Fine Art Portrait Artist
Camp Cold Springs
Robin Jackson Photography
TUSHY
F45 Training
Gatsby's & Styling With Camila
Lisa March
Lakeway Nail Spa
Bombshell Beauty
Tidy Crescent Co.
Champions Westlake
Terra Toys
Austin Skin
Blazer Tag
Skydive Spaceland
Kristen Herbort
Taylor Dukes Wellness
Fab'rik Austin
Perspire Sauna Studio
Luv Braces & Kid's Dentistry
Mitalena Artisan Coffee
Nitro Swim
TULA Life Balanced, Inc.
The Small Art Project
Vital Stretch
Restore Hyper Wellness
Southern Steer Butcher
Perspire Sauna Studio
Musician's Woodshed
TXB
Cabo Sportfishing Adventure
Serene Hills Dentistry
Korman Fine Jewelry
Beckstead Terry Ditto
Square One
Covert Bee Cave
Love, Tito’s
Taylor Bosworth & Bullard
Haddon+Cowan Architects
North Star Electric
GarageCap
YCG Investments
2024-25 Board of Trustees
Tasha Yacktman, Chair
Jenn McClain DeJong, Vice Chair
Donald Yacktman, Treasurer
Ashley Tuck, Secretary
Michael Ajouz
Jeremy Rincon
Ashley Tuck
Jason Waterbury
Robert Yacktman
Brian Yacktman
“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make."
- Dr. Jane Goodall
IMPACT REPORT
LEAD • ACHIEVE • INSPIRE
With heartfelt gratitude, we thank the generous benefactors, parents, students, faculty, and staff whose contributions have positively benefited the next generation of Trailblazers. Your generosity, dedication, and teamwork have been instrumental in shaping our shared vision. A special thank you to the staff who worked diligently to bring this report to life, celebrating the power of giving and the incredible community that makes it all possible.
