2024-25 IMPACT REPORT

24 2 IMPACT REPORT LEAD • ACHIEVE • INSPIRE

“From the “From the moment moment we we joined joined IST, IST, we we felt felt a sense a sense of of belonging, belonging, not not just just as as parents, parents, but as but as a a family. family. Our Our child child feels feels truly truly seen, seen, supported, and supported, and loved loved by by their their teachers teachers every single every single day. day. It’s It’s a a place place where where they’re they’re not only not only learning, learning, but but growing growing in in confidence, kindness, confidence, kindness, and and joy. joy. We We honestly couldn’t honestly couldn’t imagine imagine a a better better school school community.” community.”

-IST parent -IST parent

“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

Table of Contents Mission, Vision, & Values...4 A Message from Our Head of School...5 Investing in Excellence...6 Giving & Growing Together...12 Spring Benefit...14 The Trailblazer Fund...15 Honoring Our Supporters...16 A Note of Gratitude from Our Board...18

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.

Our Values Respect | Integrity | Confidence | Intellect | Service

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

Tution & Fees 84% Donations & Fundraising 10% Auxiliary Programs 6%

Total Revenue

Capital Expense 3% Salaries & Benefits 59% Administrative 5%

Facilities 23%

Instructional Materials 10%

Total Expenses

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,

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 JPK - Diane Kwon PK - Crystal Thompson K - Zoie Itkin 1 - Bindia Shah 2 - Sana Syed 3 - Ashlie Dulien 4 - Becky Wells 5 - Rose Berg & Christy Griswold 6 - Kasey Johnson 7 - Michelle Waterbury 8 - Breanna Sweeney 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

Rachell & Tim Enger

Irina & Michael Ajouz

Joe England

Darcy & Christopher Barrow

Sherry Espinosa

Terilynn Babb

Magda & Michael Fazio

Ana Barbosa

Carol & Rob Fondren

Charissa & Jason Bates

Kate & Mykal Fox

Catherine & Cleve Bellar

Bruce Furst

Rosalie & Brian Berg

Zhuo Gao & Na Jia

Farrah & Jay Bhattacharyya

Melissa Garcia

Jeanette & Walter Bledsoe

Corey Gayheart

Aleisha & Patrick Bourne

Claudia Goldberg

Judy Bowen

Ali & Sara Golshani

Stacy Boyd

Christy & Matt Griswold

Ansley Bridges

Caroline & Jeremy Harris

Kinsley Brunelli & Melissa Garcia

Thomas & Andrewa Hawes

Thuy Bui

Amber & John Heim

Gabryela Cardoso & Luciano Araujo

Gayle & Steve Heintz

Sarah & Scott Cerreta

Ariel & Tommie Hobbs

Stephen & Courtney Chen

Karen Hoffman

Rahul Chhatwal & Jasmine Thakkar

Brandy Hoopaugh

Andrea & Richard Chung

Ashley Swindle

Jared & Jessica Coleman

Chad Hyatt

Brendan Costello & Diane Kwon

Zoie & Andrew Itkin

Bill & Meagan Cotton

Fatou Jagne & Cherno Njie

Brian Couch

Adam & Angela Jaskolski

Michael Cowan & Harmony Edwards-

Kasey & Michael Johnson

Canfield

Anniina Jokinen & Vikram Phatak

Jamie Craig

Jason Jones

Daniela & Nathan Crair

Lana Kaufman & Max Pustozvonov

Jenn & Jason De Jong

Maha Khan & Hamza Saigol

Connie & Shey Ditto

Marina Khattak & Aly Orady

Anonymous

Cara & Vu Kong

Ashlie & Louis Dulien

Molly & Stephen Kosoris

James Emley

Donor Recognition for the 2024-25 Year Trish & Will Kruger

Bindia & Parag Shah

Laura & Ari Kuchinsky

Magdalena & Bartlomiej Siemienczuk

Luis Landois Jr. & Nora Sanchez

Tim & Yara Sittler

Marlena Lee & Eric Cheung

Ben Snyder

Dean & Kristi Leipsner

Sara & Paul Solomon

Piotr & Malwina Lewko

Breanna & Colin Sweeney

Christina & Derek Lothringer

Ashley Swindle

Luz Lunar

Anil & Priya Taneja

Ewelina MacDonald

Danielle & Jay Taylor

Amy Mahjoory & Sean McNicholas

David & Allison Teo

Shahbaz Malik & Sana Syed

Allison & Dayne Thornicroft

Natalie Malnor

Monique Threadgill

Sheree & Aaron Martin

Ashley & Cody Tuck

Myra & Gregory McCullough

Rhonda Tuck

Victor & Sophia Menezes

Annie & Richard Tufton

Cynthia & Josh Miller

Maria Ortiz & Jesus Vargas

Pam & Tom Moore

Jason & Michelle Waterbury

Justin Mulloy

Nicole & Steve Welch

Justin Nelson & Maria Solovieva

Becky & Tyler Wells

Michael & Sherri Nicol

Gavin & Thalia West

David & Patricia Nicol

Brian & Tasha Yacktman

Michelle Overman

Kimberly & Michael Yacktman

Jennifer Passi

The Yacktman Family Foundation

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

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

Champions Westlake

Austin Elite Gymnastics

Terra Toys

Card My Yard

Austin Skin

Bob Bullock Museum

Blazer Tag

Urban Air

Skydive Spaceland

Russell Korman Jewelers

Kristen Herbort

Shipley Donuts

Taylor Dukes Wellness

The Ajouz Family

Fab'rik Austin

Mitalena Artisan Coffee

Perspire Sauna Studio

Town & Country Golden Retrievers

Luv Braces & Kid's Dentistry

Thinkery

Mitalena Artisan Coffee

Austin Bouldering Project

Nitro Swim

Amy Martin

TULA Life Balanced, Inc.

Little Table of Grace

The Small Art Project

Hamilton Pool Vineyards

Vital Stretch

Antonelli's Cheese

Restore Hyper Wellness

Bruce and Terilynn Babb

Southern Steer Butcher

Muse MedSpa

Perspire Sauna Studio

Total Wine

Musician's Woodshed

CYCED

TXB

Bricks & Minifigs

Cabo Sportfishing Adventure

Anna Kraft Fine Art Portrait Artist

Serene Hills Dentistry

Camp Cold Springs

Korman Fine Jewelry

Robin Jackson Photography

Beckstead Terry Ditto

TUSHY

Square One

F45 Training

Covert Bee Cave

Gatsby's & Styling With Camila

Love, Tito’s

Lisa March

Taylor Bosworth & Bullard

Lakeway Nail Spa

Haddon+Cowan Architects

Bombshell Beauty

North Star Electric

Tidy Crescent Co.

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.

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A publication of The International School of Texas | www.istexas.org