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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

A Happy Ending

Helena Hu, Co-Editor-in-Chief | June 5, 2020

To say that I did not have high expectations for how my senior year would play out would be a complete lie. Senior year was supposed to be the best year of my life to date-- I would enjoy my last tennis...

The George Floyd Protests: A Civil Demonstration Turns Violent

Ryne Dunman, Staff Writer | June 5, 2020

Black Lives Matter protests have broken out nationwide amid growing unrest over the death of George Floyd, an unarmed black man who died in police custody after being pinned by Minneapolis Police Department...

 Junior Rachel Abalos interviews junior Sofia Fidel about her thoughts on seeing people going out despite the stay-at-home orders. Throughout the podcast, she answered questions focusing on her daily emotions with both of her parents returning home after diligently working at a local hospital.

A Human Face Podcast Amplifies Voices Amid Global Pandemic

Charlotte Cao and Claudia Lin | June 4, 2020

With school physically closed until summer, many clubs have suspended their on-campus activities. Junior Rachel Abalos, president of the Toastmasters Gavel club, quickly developed a new way to spread her...

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...

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