An author once wrote, "A good teacher is like a candle ~ it consumes itself to light the way for others." For over twenty-five years, ISTP teachers have been lighting the way for students, preparing them for a world of endless possibilities. Teachers from across the globe come to the International School of the Peninsula because they are passionate about what they do, and take to heart the responsibility of educating and encouraging your children to reach their full potential. ISTP teachers are special because they care about the students and want to enrich their lives not just through what they learn in textbooks, but also through the different cultures they share. You can see their dedication and commitment to your children on a daily basis, from the teacher who takes time on the weekend to cheer on a student at their soccer game or go to their birthday party, to the teacher who discreetly gives free tutoring after school to the child of parents on a tight budget.

We all know that the cost of living in the Bay Area is high, and although becoming a teacher or working for a non-profit organization is not the most lucrative of career choices, it is one of the most rewarding. These choices are not made based on dollar amounts, but on a strong belief in bringing out the very best in every child. Yet at what price do we set this precious gift of education? How can we show our appreciation and respect for these individuals, with their outstanding background, experience and dedication?

This evening, we are asking you to give what you can to this year's Fund-A-Need, as a show of your support for our faculty and staff. What we raise tonight will go directly to them, not only as a show of thanks, but so we may also continue to provide our community with highly qualified teachers and staff. At ISTP, we believe in academic excellence. Retaining and attracting a high caliber of individuals is of the utmost importance, as it directly impacts the quality of education your child receives. ISTP faculty and staff are dedicated to providing your child a level of academic rigor and excellence that is unparalleled. Very few schools are able to offer the rich, incomparable combination of culture and education that ISTP offers. Please show your support for our talented faculty and staff members, who spend each day ensuring that your child receives only the best.
ISTP staff are equally dedicated, working hard to ensure the smooth operation of the school. It is not unusual to find staff members juggling multiple tasks during a stressful and fast-paced day, yet always ready to warmly greet you with a smile and ask how they can help you. Some even continue working past their normal schedule, well into the evening until the lights automatically shut off in the building, signaling to them that the next work day is only hours away.