School Traditions

IST Traditions

At The International School of Texas, traditions are about bringing our community together. They create opportunities for students, families, and staff to connect, celebrate, and learn alongside one another. From lively competitions like Sports Day and the Grade 4 STEM Egg Drop, to cultural celebrations such as Holi and the International Harvest Festival, our traditions build lasting memories and strengthen our sense of belonging.

Some of our signature traditions include:

Sports Day (Spring) – A spirited field day each spring where students compete in fun challenges, games, and races while showing teamwork and school pride.
Grade 4 STEM Egg Drop – Students design and build devices in STEM class to safely drop an egg from the school roof, combining creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning.
Trailblazer House System – Students are part of one of four houses, earning points for exemplifying IST values and the IB Learner Profile, competing in Sports Day, pep rallies, and house spirit events, culminating in the annual House Cup.
International Harvest Festival – Families come together the Friday before Thanksgiving for a carry-in feast celebrating global cultures and the joy of sharing.
IST Texas State Fair (Fall) – Our fall festival combines school spirit with Texas flair, featuring live music, BBQ, chili cookoffs, line dancing, and games for the entire community.
Spirit Week (Winter) – A fun celebration of all things IST, with themed days set by our Student Council and students dress up according to the theme. This week is joined by events and activities that coordinate with the daily themes!
Holi – A vibrant color celebration where students experience the joy and culture of the Festival of Colors.
Food Drive – A house competition supporting the Central Texas Food Bank, where students and families contribute to the local community while earning points for their house.
Lunar New Year Dragon Dancers – We welcome a local Dragon Dancing group to IST every year to celebrate Lunar New Year!
Parent Breakfasts & Under the Oaks Forums – Opportunities for parents to connect and engage with school leadership on topics supporting student growth, usually 1-2 times per academic quarter.
Popsicles on the Playground Summer Social – A casual summer gathering for families to meet and celebrate the summer together, and visit with school leadership.
Parent Social at the Meridien 98 Lounge – A September kickoff event for parents to connect and build friendships within the IST community.
Pep Rallies (Two per Year) – Students sit by house and compete in minute-to-win-it style games, building energy, camaraderie, and house spirit with the whole student body.

These traditions are more than events, they are moments that connect our community, celebrate our values, and make IST a place where everyone belongs.

Next → Trailblazer House System

School Traditions

IST Traditions

Some of our signature traditions include:

Sign up to receive our Admission and Enrollment Viewbook

About IST

Helpful Links

Get in touch