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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

Although AP classes on campus typically start junior year, some sophomores had the option to take AP Computer Science Principles and AP Human Geography. Specific APs, like world language APs, had unique submissions such as portfolios and voice recordings.

College Board’s Lack of Concern for Students Landed Them a Lawsuit

Emma Haag and Krisha Konchadi | June 3, 2020

Students have been learning the lengthy curriculum of their Advanced Placement (AP) classes this entire school year, until news of the Coronavirus pandemic hit. Thankfully for students, the AP tests only...

Traditionally, the alma mater would be performed live by orchestra members, but social distancing measures require that the song only be played via recording.

Behind the Scenes of Creating the Alma Mater

Ava Caleca and Kate Hayashi | June 2, 2020

The official “Hail Portola,” complete with lyrics and instrumentals is complete and will be played for the first time for the virtual graduation of the class of 2020.  Visual and performing arts...

In normal circumstances, Korean American Young Leader members would gather at the Korean American Center for meetings. However, the group has been keeping in touch and plans to release a future podcast episode focusing on the Black Lives Matter Movement.

Korean American Young Leaders Empower Asian-American Youth

Claudia Lin and Jaein Kim | June 2, 2020

Founded with the intent of eliminating stereotypes that surround Asian American political participation, Korean American Young Leaders (KAYL) strives to socially empower Asian American youth and foster...

As a member of technical theater, Blank worked mainly on sound in his sophomore year before transitioning into lighting work this year. Much of Blank’s work involves more than just making sure the audience can see the stage, but also enhancing the mood and atmosphere of the performance.

Junior Technician Awarded Theatre Management Scholarship

Charlotte Cao and Minnah Tanzeen | June 1, 2020

As audience members sit in the theater, eyes fixed on the stage, they often become immersed into watching the latest Portola High production, But if they look carefully at the back of the theater, it is...

Tanaka Farms has helped upwards of 500 affected families every week with the assistance of local farms, non-profits, volunteers and donations.

Tanaka Farms Provides Generous Community Lift and Service

Krisha Konchadi, Social Media and Marketing Team | June 1, 2020

Tanaka Farms, located on University Drive, has managed to flourish by giving back to the Irvine community for 50 years, even under misfortune. Due to the current circumstances, lower income families are...

Although this year’s ceremony was held on a virtual platform, the celebrations of these athletes remained strong. Principal John Pehrson said, “in no way [the process] diminishes our admiration or gratitude for all you do and what you stand for.”

Pacific Coast League Awards Senior Athletes For Character and Performance

Bia Shok, Staff Writer | May 29, 2020

At the 2019-20 Pacific Coast League Senior Student Athlete Awards Virtual Ceremony on May 20, varsity water polo player Shaivi Bandatmakur and varsity football player Kaveh Wojtowich received scholar athlete...

While accounts that shame people on social media may have good intentions, social media users often do not know the full story behind others’ choices. According to sophomore Michael Kwon, some students were reposted on troll accounts even if they were following social distancing guidelines or spending time outside with their families.

“Quarantine Shaming” Needs to Stop

Lauren Hsu and Celine Lee | May 29, 2020

Despite the widespread support for Gov. Gavin Newsom’s stay-at-home order issued on March 19, many California residents, including those from Irvine, continue to resist these restrictions. In response...

Literary and language arts teacher Jeanne Jelnick, also lovingly known as "Momma J" by students and staff alike, has taught high school students for several decades at University High and Portola High. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her dedication to education, having made a home for students in her classroom.

Thank You, Momma J

Helena Hu and Annie Qiao | May 29, 2020

As we speak with literary and language arts teacher Jeanne Jelnick, known as “Momma J” to the Portola High community, her eyes often gaze into the distance, staring fondly at memories and experiences...

Education specialist Desiree Shaffer waves a “Go Bulldogs” sign to incoming cars of students and family members, who show their appreciation even behind windows and masks. From a safe distance, Shaffer stops to check in and chat with the families before sending them down the line of other cheerful staff members.

Caravan for Special Education Creates Smiles From 6 Feet Away

Ava Caleca and Kelthie Truong | May 28, 2020

Paper signs flutter in the afternoon breeze as staff members patiently await the next round of cars, equipped with joyful honking and eager passengers.  Initiated by special education department chair...

Video Production teacher Tina Murphy and junior Madison Empalmado, the new social media producer, special segment producer and reporter, wanted to display the key features of their studio: the painted-on green screen and lights. PNN often uses their Instagram (@portolanewsnetwork) to publicize their show.

PNN Anchors Down their Leadership for the 2020-21 School Year

Emma Haag and Ariana Wu | May 28, 2020

From working countless hours to putting together 20-second segments to capturing important school events on film, the leadership of Portola News Network is always on top of its game. To prepare for another...

The Iris Episode 2: The Reign of King COVID the 19th

The Iris Episode 2: The Reign of King COVID the 19th

Ajinkya Rane and Jordan Lee | May 28, 2020

Jordan and Ajinkya tackle what's on everyone's mind - the Coronavirus. With guests spanning from a Portola student facing difficulties with asthma medication and a physician specializing in pediatric emergency...

Junior Raksha Rajeshmohan played the lead role in the spring “Cinderella” musical. By watching and writing about other local theater productions, she was able to utilize her unique perspective to improve her performance on stage.

Junior Raksha Rajeshmohan Nominated for Theater Critics Award

Claudia Lin and Zara Shirwany | May 27, 2020

From astonishing audience members with her show-stopping performances to constructing critic reviews for local school productions, junior Raksha Rajeshmohan has built a unique appreciation of theater through...

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