The student news site of Portola High School

Portola Pilot
The student news site of Portola High School

Portola Pilot
The student news site of Portola High School

Portola Pilot
Reviews
The arrival of the seasonal red patterned cups signifies the arrival of winter, with new designs released yearly. These cups exhibit holiday joy with their red, white and green embellishments that are sure to bring joy to any beverage lover.
Starbucks ‘Steeps’ Up the Holiday Spirit with their Seasonal Treats
November 21, 2024
Similarly to millions of people across the globe, sophomores Hiba Laique and Coco Marshall find enjoyment in slang found on the internet. On social media and the internet, roughly 89% of Americans find themselves learning slang from these sources, according to Preply.
Unpacking a New Wave of Internet Lingo
November 14, 2024
Wendy’s released the limited edition Krabby Patty meal on Oct. 8.
Disappointing View: Wendy’s Krabby Patty Meal Misses the Mark
November 4, 2024
From homemade pastries to specialty lattes, these cafe menu items make for the best study treat! Along with their tasty options, many of these cafes offer a wide array of accommodations, including seating, wifi and calming music, to couple with your study experience.
Get Your Mind ‘Brewing’ With These Study Cafes!
October 10, 2024
Boba’s rising popularity makes it a favorite drink for many, and new shops are opening regularly. In this review, we will be exploring two of the latest arrivals: 3Cat and Macu Tea.
Exploring New Boba Shops: A Blend of Atmosphere and Taste
October 4, 2024
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Student Art
Link Crew leaders and juniors Chloe Urianton, Sarrinah Inamdar, Saanvi Gangireddy, Chloe Grace Chen, Kenneth Althaqeb and Chloe Im host a Halloween costume party for freshmen. “Among assignments and tests, school has been a lot during junior year,” Urianton said. “I thought Halloween would be a good break amidst all these academic activities. Besides, I wanted to give an impression on the freshmen that high school isn't all just about academics, but also a way to connect with people and find joy through interacting with the community.”
‘Spirits’ Are High With Bulldogs’ Boo-tiful Halloween Costumes
November 8, 2024
Portola High’s marching band and color guard performed in a competition at Capistrano Valley High School on Oct. 26. Marching band competitions are generally full day commitments from the students and the teachers, according to drum major and junior Noa Stewart.
Pride of Portola Takes the Stage
November 7, 2024
Senior Hau Le takes the lead as the students featured in the fall play ‘Puffs’ introduce themselves while clad in yellow costumes, configured by Tech Theatre. “Closing night, the audience was fantastic. I remember the end scene, the battle scene, people were screaming, people were laughing,” Sally Perks and sophomore Coco Marshall said.
Portola High Fall Play “Puffs”: A Silly Spin On the Story of Hufflepuffs at Hogwarts Charms Audience
October 24, 2024
Student Teacher David Pulanco leads the treble and bass choir through warmups at the beginning of class. “Probably my favorite thing about the students at Portola is how dedicated they are to the program,” Pulanco said. “They really love working for the music. They really love working hard to get the music done. It's a passion that I don't see a lot of in students.”
A Rising Voice: Student Teacher David Pulanco’s Journey to Portola High
October 23, 2024
Vocalist of Crocs ‘N’ Socks and junior Suah Yang bundles up in a cardigan and black sunglasses for the cozy “Sweater Weather” by The Neighbourhood. “I’ve loved to sing since I was a little kid,” Yang said. “I’ve been doing choir for a long time, but last year Mr. Traska was like, ‘oh why don’t you do studio music,’ because I love to perform pop songs, and with a band. Performing it gives me joy because expressing my feelings through music is really fun.”
A Showdown for the Ages: Student Bands Rock the Stage
October 15, 2024
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Arts & Entertainment
Wingstop’s new Sweet BBQ Blaze flavor, released just in time for football season, offers a smoky, tangy twist on classic barbecue wings. Portola High students flock to try the latest addition, savoring its bold, rich sweetness with every bite.
Wingstop Kicks Off NFL Football Season with New Sweet BBQ Blaze Flavor
October 3, 2024
Senior Maariyah Arif appreciates Dress to Impress for its various styles — from lace to gingham — and its costumes. “I've been playing Roblox for years, and Dress to Impress just started going viral,” Arif said. “I think it's cool to see all the different costumes.”
Glitz and Glamor: Dress to Impress Dazzles Portola High Players
September 27, 2024
Dance 4 member and junior Ria Peregrin performs a solo part alongside period six Dance 3 and Dance 4 students to “Omigod You Guys,” an energetic jazz piece inspired by the dance from the film "Legally Blonde” at the inaugural Broadway Night on Sept. 13 in the theater. Broadway Night consisted of all performing groups on campus each showcasing their work from the last couple weeks in hopes to get more excitement for the upcoming performances during the school year, according to choir director Adrian Rangel-Sanchez.
Portola High’s First Broadway Night is a ‘Curtain Call’ for Success
September 20, 2024
South Korean band Wave to Earth’s third album, “play with earth! 0.03,” explores themes of self-fulfillment, love, heartbreak and identity that often intertwine in unexpected ways — from apocalyptic symbolism to languid moments under the sun.
Wave to Earth ‘Plays’ with Sound in Latest Album Release
September 16, 2024
Spider-Man, one of the most beloved superhero archetypes in Marvel Comics, has been brought to life in various adaptations. Read below to see which films truly did this character and his story justice.
Our ‘Spidey Senses’ Tell Us These Are the Best Spider-Man Films to Watch
June 7, 2024
Detective Roland (Jason Wu Chen) suffers a nervous breakdown after being thwarted by kleptomaniac Shalia (senior Sanika Nihalani) once again. In a Q&A after the play, Wu Chen said that he added an element of improvisation to the scene when he spontaneously hurled his cigar lighter into the airport wall.
Honors Ensemble Play “Gate F-10” Takes Off for the Last Time
May 29, 2024
Written with her brother FINNEAS, Billie Eilish’s third studio album “Hit Me Hard and Soft” delves into her perception of self, love and happiness, providing her audience a raw look into her thoughts and emotions.
Billie Eilish’s “Hit Me Hard and Soft” Dives Into Vulnerability and Reflection
May 28, 2024
Pop performance group Calico, a part of Club II-V-I, waits until their time to run onto stage during pop performance group STRIKETHROUGH’s set. The two groups performed the rest of the set together, hyping up the audience with the upbeat nature of their songs.
Spring Festival Porchella Unveils Melodies in Motion
May 24, 2024
Senior Jesper Nguyen jams out on his melodica as Jazz I’s marching band line slowly unravels in front of the amphitheater. “Our current jazz pianist, Jesper Nguyen, is really good,” pianist and sophomore Neo Tian said. “I feel like I have to honor him by stepping up to his expectations and filling his shoes next year.”
Turning Back Time: Annual Jazz Night Concert Rewinds Back to Improvisational Roots
May 17, 2024
The banner of the village and the Seven Samurai, which serves as a symbol of hope for the protagonists.
Seven Samurai: A Japanese Classic 70 Years On
May 6, 2024
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Arts & Entertainment