Celebrating 40 Years of Empowering Generations at ISM
In 1985, The International School of Minnesota opened its doors as the first SABIS® Network school in the United States, bringing a globally respected educational model to the heart of Minnesota. From its pioneering first class to the diverse community it fosters today, ISM has spent four decades shaping curious minds and cultivating leaders prepared for a changing world.
In 2025–2026, ISM proudly celebrates 40 years of delivering world-class education, empowering generations of learners, and building a vibrant global community. This year-long celebration honors our past, embraces the present, and looks boldly into the future.
Join us throughout the year for a series of inspiring events and activities that highlight the spirit, achievements, and aspirations of the ISM community.
Through the Decades – A Celebration of 40 Years
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Step back in time and journey through the decades as we mark ISM's 40th anniversary with an unforgettable evening of celebration!
📅 Saturday, November 1, 2025
Current and past families and staff are invited to come together in downtown Minneapolis for a festive night of connection, nostalgia, and school spirit. Enjoy dinner, lively entertainment, a silent auction, and shared memories as we honor the milestones and people who have shaped ISM over the past four decades. We encourage guests to dress to impress, representing your favorite decade from the 80s, 90s, through the 2000s!
Empowering the Future – One Scholarship at a Time
In celebration of ISM’s 40th anniversary, this year’s Gala will support a special initiative to expand access to our exceptional education. Through your support of the 40th Anniversary Gala, we aim to supplement our existing tuition assistance fund to provide four full-ride scholarships to deserving students and forty additional scholarships covering 40% of tuition. Your generosity will directly open doors for talented, driven students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to join our vibrant, multicultural community—ensuring that ISM’s legacy of excellence and inclusion continues for the next 40 years.Learn more about eligibility, requirements, and application deadlines.
Themes & Celebrations Throughout the Year
Each month, we’ll spotlight themes that reflect ISM’s legacy and future. Join us for events and community moments tied to these special milestones:
| Month | Theme | Events |
| September | Husky Spirit | Sept. 15-19: Homecoming Week Sept. 20: SLO Homecoming Dance |
| October | Celebrating Community | Oct. 22: Unity Day |
| November | Empowering Generations | Nov. 1: Through the Decades Celebration |
| December | Giving Back | Dec.19: SLO Day of Service |
| January | Lifelong Friendships | Coming Soon |
| February | Nurturing Creativity | February 19-22: Musical |
| March | Academic Excellence | |
| April | Global Connections | SABIS STARS April 18: International Day |
| May | Empowering Future Generations | May 22: Honors Convocation May 31: Senior Graduation |
| June | Innovation | June 4: KG Graduation June 5: End-of-Year Family Picnic |
We invite students, parents, alumni, and community members to join us throughout the year and share in the memories.
Photo Memories Through the Decades
Take a look back at 40 years of incredible moments—from the earliest school photos to recent accomplishments.
