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Portola Pilot
The proposed map for the California Senate district splits Irvine between its northern and southern regions. This redistricting drawing plan is one of the most drastic of the proposed changes to the California Assembly and the federal Senate.
Irvine Faces Redistricting as 2020 Census Data Nears
An FBI spy attended meetings and prayers at the Islamic Center of Irvine to identify potential terrorists, according to ABC News. “I can still confidently walk into a mosque and still confidently pray,” Muslim Student Association co-vice president and senior Abdallah Fares said. “Knowing that in the end we can protect ourselves, whether its through the legal system, whether simply just through our own confidence or our own pride in our religion.”
Orange County Muslim Americans Ask the Supreme Court to Allow Lawsuit Against The FBI
To conclude the Student Advisory Board on Education conference, delegates worked on electing the next student board member, a high school senior who sits on the State Board of Education as its seventh member. Each year, SABE hosts an election process that narrows down 12 semi-finalists to the top six, and after, the SBE reduces it to one, according to Tesoro High senior Stephanie Hu.
Student Advisory Board on Education Conference Develops Policy Proposals for State Board of Education
Green shrubbery has re-emerged onto the landscape of Limestone Canyon Regional Park, although the charred remains of some plants are still visible. “Everything is coming back now, and I can see that theres visibly more growth,” sophomore Justin Yi said after doing environmental volunteer work with the Irvine Korean Parents Association & Volunteer Committee. “You can see Mother Nature letting everything grow back a year after the fire.”
One Year After the Silverado Fire, What Has Changed?
While Allison Jo and Ashley Jo share a close bond, the twins took precautions to ensure their applications were personal to them. “If we were going to ask [each other] questions, they would just be really broad ones,” Ashley Jo said. “I think the only information that we actually shared with each other was financial stuff, because obviously, our financials are going to be the same.”
Senior Twins Named First Questbridge Finalists in School History
The Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine, shown here with a syringe, could expand its accessibility to children ages 5-11 if the FDA approves its request for authorization. The vaccine is already available for those 12 and over, and booster shots are available per CDC criteria.
Pfizer Seeks Authorization from FDA for Vaccine Usage on Ages 5 to 11
COVID-19 Guidelines for Universities
COVID-19 Guidelines for Universities
600,000 children, ages 12-15, have received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine across the nation, according to NBC News. Refer to the City of Irvine Covid-19 Resources for a nearby vaccination center.
Children Ages 12-15 Now Eligible for Vaccination
The Walgreens in Woodbury Town Center is a vaccination center. Fully vaccinated individuals have looser COVID guidelines to follow, according to the CDC.
CDC Updates Guidelines for Vaccinated Individuals
Relatives who lost a family member due to the Coronavirus surge are outside Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan hospital in New Delhi on April 21, according to the Associated Press. New Delhi has become a major hotspot during the surge.
India’s Healthcare System Collapses as Coronavirus Cases Surge
While Allison Jo and Ashley Jo share a close bond, the twins took precautions to ensure their applications were personal to them. “If we were going to ask [each other] questions, they would just be really broad ones,” Ashley Jo said. “I think the only information that we actually shared with each other was financial stuff, because obviously, our financials are going to be the same.”
Senior Twins Named First Questbridge Finalists in School History
Individual awards for the contest include senior Ryne Dunman for first place in Features Writing, senior Michelle Kim for third place in Opinion Writing, senior Clara Ferreira Lopes for second place in Photography, sophomore Tara Vatandoust for second place in Features Writing and sophomore Tyler Kim for third place in News Writing.
Portola Pilot Takes Off at Virtual CSUN Journalism Day Conference
ASB vice president and junior David Kim waved the Portola flag before the start of the pep rally as students sat in their designated class sections.
Making the Homecoming Pep Rally a Reality
Before they left, Bassma Ennarah, Zara Kareem, Grace Bashawaty, Aarushi Anil, Celine Aoki and Saachi Pavani took a group photo to keep the memory of their senior trip. “[Taking a group photo] is something very sentimental, Ennarah said. “Especially since we have been online for so long, so I think that’s what makes keeping those memories especially important this year.”
Bulldogs Have Their First Senior Trip in Universal Studios
The prospect of a National Merit Scholarship has attracted students to take the PSAT, while its role as a preparatory test for the SAT has also been a factor, despite more schools going test-optional or test-blind.
Juniors Take PSAT as UC and CSU Systems Go Test-Blind
The proposed map for the California Senate district splits Irvine between its northern and southern regions. This redistricting drawing plan is one of the most drastic of the proposed changes to the California Assembly and the federal Senate.
Irvine Faces Redistricting as 2020 Census Data Nears
An FBI spy attended meetings and prayers at the Islamic Center of Irvine to identify potential terrorists, according to ABC News. “I can still confidently walk into a mosque and still confidently pray,” Muslim Student Association co-vice president and senior Abdallah Fares said. “Knowing that in the end we can protect ourselves, whether its through the legal system, whether simply just through our own confidence or our own pride in our religion.”
Orange County Muslim Americans Ask the Supreme Court to Allow Lawsuit Against The FBI
To conclude the Student Advisory Board on Education conference, delegates worked on electing the next student board member, a high school senior who sits on the State Board of Education as its seventh member. Each year, SABE hosts an election process that narrows down 12 semi-finalists to the top six, and after, the SBE reduces it to one, according to Tesoro High senior Stephanie Hu.
Student Advisory Board on Education Conference Develops Policy Proposals for State Board of Education
Green shrubbery has re-emerged onto the landscape of Limestone Canyon Regional Park, although the charred remains of some plants are still visible. “Everything is coming back now, and I can see that theres visibly more growth,” sophomore Justin Yi said after doing environmental volunteer work with the Irvine Korean Parents Association & Volunteer Committee. “You can see Mother Nature letting everything grow back a year after the fire.”
One Year After the Silverado Fire, What Has Changed?
Two men walk around the Great Park, showcasing their traditional Korean attire. Korean traditional clothing for males usually consisted of long robes with wide sleeves and a black hat with two flaps on the side.
20th Irvine Global Village Festival Celebrates a Cultural Explosion After One Year Hiatus
The Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine, shown here with a syringe, could expand its accessibility to children ages 5-11 if the FDA approves its request for authorization. The vaccine is already available for those 12 and over, and booster shots are available per CDC criteria.
Pfizer Seeks Authorization from FDA for Vaccine Usage on Ages 5 to 11
COVID-19 Guidelines for Universities
COVID-19 Guidelines for Universities
600,000 children, ages 12-15, have received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine across the nation, according to NBC News. Refer to the City of Irvine Covid-19 Resources for a nearby vaccination center.
Children Ages 12-15 Now Eligible for Vaccination
The Walgreens in Woodbury Town Center is a vaccination center. Fully vaccinated individuals have looser COVID guidelines to follow, according to the CDC.
CDC Updates Guidelines for Vaccinated Individuals
Relatives who lost a family member due to the Coronavirus surge are outside Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan hospital in New Delhi on April 21, according to the Associated Press. New Delhi has become a major hotspot during the surge.
India’s Healthcare System Collapses as Coronavirus Cases Surge
Quiz: What Thanksgiving Food Are You?
Quiz: What Thanksgiving Food Are You?
Senior Thivinya Kobbekaduwa holds up a Sri Lankan flag. Kobbekaduwa was born in Sri Lanka and was inspired to give back to her home city of Kobbekaduwa after hearing news of underfunded schools in Sri Lanka from her aunt.
Thivinya Kobbekaduwa Helps Underprivileged Sri Lankans Skim Through a New Chapter of Education
The VAPA department dressed up as social studies teacher Wind Ralston. According to music teacher Desmond Stevens, he attempted to grow a beard similar to Ralston’s for the costume.
Staff Halloween Costume Competition Stirs up Good-Natured Rivalries
Seniors Cecilia Mou, Shaun Baek and Rachel Shim pose for their photo during snack. Mou decided to dress up as Lofi Girl, the profile picture of a YouTube channel that streams lo-fi playlists. Baek dressed as the well-known and beloved Disney character Winnie the Pooh. Shim wore a monochromatic look, pairing a white outfit to match her bunny ears.
Looking Back on the Creepy and Cute Halloween Costumes on Campus
Lion-Dragon Dancers performed at the Irvine Global Village Festival on Oct. 9. Pictured are the dancers and four lion heads, which can weigh as much as 15 to 20 pounds (depending on the amount of ornaments), according to sophomore Deko Hsiao.
Students Bring History to Life through Dragon and Lion Dancing
Senior Thivinya Kobbekaduwa holds up a Sri Lankan flag. Kobbekaduwa was born in Sri Lanka and was inspired to give back to her home city of Kobbekaduwa after hearing news of underfunded schools in Sri Lanka from her aunt.
Thivinya Kobbekaduwa Helps Underprivileged Sri Lankans Skim Through a New Chapter of Education
Seniors Cecilia Mou, Shaun Baek and Rachel Shim pose for their photo during snack. Mou decided to dress up as Lofi Girl, the profile picture of a YouTube channel that streams lo-fi playlists. Baek dressed as the well-known and beloved Disney character Winnie the Pooh. Shim wore a monochromatic look, pairing a white outfit to match her bunny ears.
Looking Back on the Creepy and Cute Halloween Costumes on Campus
Literary and language arts teacher Vinny Rico performs a calisthenic move called lunge jumps. Although Rico mainly instructs yoga, he has also taught a variety of other fitness classes, such as pilates, spin and bar. “One thing I for sure love is I get to spend time with my friends and people that I enjoy being around, and I think that the best thing about teaching yoga is the community,” Rico said. “The people who go to yoga are just very positive, grateful and good energy.”
Literary and Language Arts Teacher Vinny Rico ‘Maintains Balance’ in the Yoga Studio and the Classroom
Sophomore Brian Kim reads “Mythology” by Edith Hamilton, a book that depicts Greek, Roman and Norse mythological stories. Kim said he used the book to gain insight into the opposing side of his stance and explore how the author portrayed the western stories. According to Kim, the book provided contrast he was able to reference when mentioning the portrayal of other non-western subjects such as how Buddhism spread to other cultures, a topic he explored in his research journal. He also referenced the book “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari to develop background knowledge on early human history, culture and religion.
Sophomore Brian Kim Creates Current Connections to History
Junior Jack Lipson waits for his sixth-period AP Statistics class to begin. In eighth grade, Lipson mastered calculus and is now studying elementary analysis at University of California, Irvine.
The “White Genderqueer Activist… with a Big Ego” from Stanford Online
Cooking $20 Thanksgiving Feast
Cooking $20 Thanksgiving Feast
Following the performances, C.O.D.E. guitarist and senior Desmond Wong accepts the Best Set award for his group from instrumental music teacher Kyle Traska. Engineering teacher Anthony Pham designed and created the trophies, according to Traska.
Striking a Chord: Battle of Rock Bands Nails Audience Engagement
The installation “Together, but Apart” was the start of seniors Elyse Dudley’s and Mia Zappala’s artistic partnership. Seniors Kate Brooks, Julie Epps and Clara Ferreira Lopes stand inside the completed project to literally see the world through a different colored lens.
A Friendship Full of He(art): Seniors Elyse Dudley and Mia Zappala Strengthen their Bond Through Art
The Pride of Portola placed third overall in Division 4a with a score of 79.725. “I honestly think that the performance was, overall, the best performance I’ve ever been a part of in my whole band career; the energy and the audience’s reaction really made me proud of our show production,” assistant drum major and senior Seira Homma said. “I had to make that the best that we’ve ever done, and also, as a leader, set an example for the others to follow. It’s our last-ever performance. It was my last-ever performance. And, you know, the other students have next year and more. But it was my last performance as a senior. It’s kind of sad. I still can’t believe that it’s over.”
Pride of Portola Takes Final Bow at Last Competition of the Season
Sophomore Jack Kendig sings “Sleigh Ride” composed by Leroy Anderson in preparations for the winter concert. The Treblemakers chose to keep their music a secret while preparing for the concert.
First All-Male Choir Stands up to Any Treble
Sophomore Jack Kendig sings “Sleigh Ride” composed by Leroy Anderson in preparations for the winter concert. The Treblemakers chose to keep their music a secret while preparing for the concert.
First All-Male Choir Stands up to Any Treble
Sophomore Emma De Felippo, junior Riya Takagi, senior Yuri Suh, sophomore Ashley Jiang, sophomore Bahati Laizer, junior Shreedevi Murugan, sophomore Amber Lea and sophomore Kaili Hellewell rehearse a student-led choreography titled “human.” This piece is about creating a distinction between the physical components of a human and what it means to actually be human, according to choreographer and sophomore Ashley Jiang.
Student Choreographers ‘Break the Ice’ In Preparation For Winter Dance Concert
When the murder (Roman) is revealed to the audience, she stops to talk to the dead body about her plan all along. To help prepare for the performance, the rehearsals took three weeks and they would start memorizing lines and choosing the characters through an audition process.
First Dinner-Theatre Performance Serves a Perfect Blend of Comedy and Mystery
Senior Jiyoun Yoo often finds herself learning as she is in the middle of creating a new piece. She revises her pieces in order to perfect the small details, according to Yoo.
Jiyoun Yoo Taps Into Her Own Creative World
Junior Nicole Wang works on her next art piece, a pencil sketch. Although her commissions are usually digital drawings, Wang prefers to work on paper. “ I like how it looks when its in a sketch form,” Wang said. “I put more hard work into that.”
Nicole Wang Draws for Emotions
Lift Your Spooky Spirits With These Nostalgic Halloween Films
Lift Your Spooky Spirits With These Nostalgic Halloween Films
Daniel Craig appears as James Bond in a London scene from the film “No Time to Die.” Craig has been critically acclaimed for his acting while playing the character over a span of 15 years.
‘No Time to Die’ Review: Daniel Craig Proves He’s Still the Best Bond in Final Film
“Dear Evan Hansen” released in movie theaters on Sept. 24, starring Ben Platt as the titular character. While the film was written by Steven Lenson who wrote the narrative of the original Broadway show and directed by Stephen Chbosky, a director well known for previous works on adolescent mental health, the film received mixed response from audiences.
‘Dear Evan Hansen’ Translates Poorly to Big-Screen
After reactivating all her social media, Mitski returns with her hit single “Working for the Knife,” accompanied by its music video. She will embark on a national tour in early 2022, accompanied (hopefully!) by the release of a new album to premiere on stage.
Mitski Makes a Clean Cut from Her Old Sound with ‘Working for the Knife’
Fall Starbucks Drinks Review
Fall Starbucks Drinks Review
Moderate Democrats have feuded with Progressives over the size and provisions of Biden’s Build Back Better plan. Even if some provisions are removed, the bill will still be beneficial and necessary to tackle climate change.
Despite Opposition, Biden’s Newly-Passed Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill Includes Important Measures For Climate Change
California’s state-wide free meal program must expand across the nation to ensure equal academic opportunity.
Extend Free School Meals Across the Nation
Local golf courses’ current preference for maximizing profits rather than supporting students has contributed to the struggles the golf teams face this year, including long commutes to games and individual fees for practices.
The “Long Drive Contest”: How Privately-Owned Golf Courses Contribute to Golf Teams’ Struggles
Sophomore Quinn Schatz asked sophomore Lisa Liu to Homecoming after second period and she was very excited to see that he took the time to cut up tennis balls for the proposal.
Personalize that Proposal
Sophomore Kaylin Wong rides her electric bike home from school along Irvine Blvd. on Oct. 6. The roadway abuts the Eastern Transportation Corridor Toll Road – the crossing where freshman Shifa Harsolia was hit while cycling home from school on Sept. 10.
Wearing a Helmet Doesn’t Prevent Biking Accidents: Being Defensive Does
An Open Letter to the Portola High Community: Redefining Irvine Student Culture
An Open Letter to the Portola High Community: Redefining Irvine Student Culture
Activism is a marathon; make sure to watch your step.
Staff Editorial: Putting Action into Student Activism
While many may see online school as a way to do minimal work, students and teachers must work in tandem to manage Emergency Distance Learning.
Staff Editorial: Students Cannot Afford to Slack Off
Staff Editorial: Student Tracking Takes Steps Backward in Progressive Education
Staff Editorial: Student Tracking Takes Steps Backward in Progressive Education
Academic dishonesty often occurs in a cyclic pattern when there is no firm cheating policy in place. With 57% of teachers at IUSD agreeing that cheating is a problem at their schools, a stronger stance from the district is necessary.
Promoting Academic Integrity Through Student Efforts
Running back and linebacker and senior Nova Kebelli tries to loosen the grasp of the opposing teammate as he tries to be in an open position to receive plays. Coming back to a more typical season after an unconventional year, head football coach Peter Abe gave advice for future seasons. “You should come out here and enjoy all the benefits high school athletics can provide for you,” Abe said. “And because of that and great high school programs, you are also going to become a better person in the process. So live it up, enjoy all of that. Your only job is to be a good person, be a good student and have a whole lot of fun while youre still a minor.”
CIF Football Game Results in Bulldog Loss After Strong 7-3 Season Standing
The Bulldogs (7-5) played their final football game of the season against Dana Hills High on Oct. 29, losing 28-35. Despite the loss, varsity football will advance to CIF, with the team’s first CIF game to be held in the stadium on Nov. 5, according to defensive coordinator and physical education teacher Desmond Hernandez.
Gallery: Football vs. Dana Hills Oct. 29
Though the game ended with the Patriots winning 1-3 , the team captains noted that effort, not the number of wins, is most important to the girls’ volleyball team. “The only thing that you can control every game and every practice is your effort and willingness to put in work,” Jordan said. “We could be the worst team in league, or the best, but no matter what, if you put in the effort and you play the hardest you can, you’re always going to have a good time.”
Senior Night Serves Up Girls’ Volleyball Graduates
Sophomore Noam Garibi shoots the penalty shot on the goal from the 5- meter line during the second quarter. He scored four points in total throughout the game.
Boys’ Water Polo Turns the Tide at Fifth League Game, Defeating Woodbridge High
Boys’ Water Polo Makes Waves Against Cypress High at Game of the Week
Boys’ Water Polo Makes Waves Against Cypress High at Game of the Week
Alumnus Kiyan Dhanidina and senior Khalil Dhanidina show off their Irvine United Warriors gear. Khalil Dhanidina is currently one of the captains of the hockey team.
Senior Khalil Dhanidina Skates His Way to the Top
Alumna and assistant coach Faith DeNeve says her view of volleyball shifted after becoming a coach. “Becoming a coach has made me more aware of the harder choices like having to choose who plays, how much they play, when you need a timeout versus when you should just let the team push through,” DeNeve said.
Love for Volleyball Leads Alumna Back to Coach
Many felt the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, whether that be in regards to mental health, physical health or academics. Freshman Zoe Wynn was particularly affected in regards to her golfing game. “When COVID hit, it was kind of challenging for me because I wasnt able to practice, and all I did was hit on this mat at home, and I got really bad at golf,” Wynn said. “I just told myself that if I keep trying, then I will see the progress eventually, and more practice cant hurt. So I just kept doing it.”
Freshman Golfer Zoe Wynn is Ace-ing the Competition
Growing up, social studies teacher and junior varsity girls’ soccer coach Samantha Ezratty has always wanted to teach kindergarten due to her love for kids. After volunteering with them, she said she realized that her love for history was something she wanted to pursue for the rest of her life as she was always involved in her high school’s student government, and it was the first place she learned to write.
Girls’ Soccer Program Scores a Goal with New Coach Samantha Ezratty
Senior Ashley Presnell currently plays attacking positions on the field. Starting as a midfielder her sophomore year, she built her skills over her junior and senior years to be well-suited for the position. “As someone who plays on attack, I wasn’t a high-scoring player in previous years, so for me, my personal battle was taking more shots on goal, and that’s something that I’ve worked towards improving all four years and I finally feel confident about it this year,” Presnell said.
Senior Ashley Presnell Sticks to the Sport She Loves
Quiz: What Thanksgiving Food Are You?
Quiz: What Thanksgiving Food Are You?
S2 Episode 01: Giving Thanks: What Does Gratitude Mean to You?
S2 Episode 01: Giving Thanks: What Does Gratitude Mean to You?
The Bulldogs (7-5) played their final football game of the season against Dana Hills High on Oct. 29, losing 28-35. Despite the loss, varsity football will advance to CIF, with the team’s first CIF game to be held in the stadium on Nov. 5, according to defensive coordinator and physical education teacher Desmond Hernandez.
Gallery: Football vs. Dana Hills Oct. 29
The VAPA department dressed up as social studies teacher Wind Ralston. According to music teacher Desmond Stevens, he attempted to grow a beard similar to Ralston’s for the costume.
Staff Halloween Costume Competition Stirs up Good-Natured Rivalries
Seniors Cecilia Mou, Shaun Baek and Rachel Shim pose for their photo during snack. Mou decided to dress up as Lofi Girl, the profile picture of a YouTube channel that streams lo-fi playlists. Baek dressed as the well-known and beloved Disney character Winnie the Pooh. Shim wore a monochromatic look, pairing a white outfit to match her bunny ears.
Looking Back on the Creepy and Cute Halloween Costumes on Campus
The Bulldogs (7-5) played their final football game of the season against Dana Hills High on Oct. 29, losing 28-35. Despite the loss, varsity football will advance to CIF, with the team’s first CIF game to be held in the stadium on Nov. 5, according to defensive coordinator and physical education teacher Desmond Hernandez.
Gallery: Football vs. Dana Hills Oct. 29
The VAPA department dressed up as social studies teacher Wind Ralston. According to music teacher Desmond Stevens, he attempted to grow a beard similar to Ralston’s for the costume.
Staff Halloween Costume Competition Stirs up Good-Natured Rivalries
Seniors Cecilia Mou, Shaun Baek and Rachel Shim pose for their photo during snack. Mou decided to dress up as Lofi Girl, the profile picture of a YouTube channel that streams lo-fi playlists. Baek dressed as the well-known and beloved Disney character Winnie the Pooh. Shim wore a monochromatic look, pairing a white outfit to match her bunny ears.
Looking Back on the Creepy and Cute Halloween Costumes on Campus
Though the game ended with the Patriots winning 1-3 , the team captains noted that effort, not the number of wins, is most important to the girls’ volleyball team. “The only thing that you can control every game and every practice is your effort and willingness to put in work,” Jordan said. “We could be the worst team in league, or the best, but no matter what, if you put in the effort and you play the hardest you can, you’re always going to have a good time.”
Senior Night Serves Up Girls’ Volleyball Graduates
Moll waves a large flag with an image of Buster the Bulldog as students enter the stadium. Behind her, the Pride of Portola, which includes marching band and color guard, have already taken their places on the field. “Getting to play in the marching band and show off to the entire school, it was pretty fun,” clarinetist and freshman Danny Song said.
Gallery: In-Person Pep Rallies Return
At John Wayne airport, sophomore Klara Parang stands next to the 2001 Challenger 605 after successfully navigating her first solo take-off on the runway.
The Portola Pilots: Sibling Duo Soars The Sky
AP Testing Advice
AP Testing Advice
Pop Performance drummer and sophomore Sky Jaan practices with his band, which consists of guitarists junior Cody Maier and senior Trevor Howden and bass player and senior Jeffrey Wang.
Drum Roll Please for the Only Drummer in Pop Performance, Sky Jaan
Tips for SATs and ACTs by Portola High Students
Tips for SATs and ACTs by Portola High Students
Junior Havanna Eleyadath natively speaks Malayalam, independently studies Egyptian, Icelandic, Gaelic, Welsh and Latin and is taking Spanish III this school year.
This Student Can Translate Hieroglyphics. And Speak Six Languages.
How to Cope with Rejection
How to Cope with Rejection
Lopez teaches his Spanish 2 class, circling verbs like ‘camino’ (I walk) and ‘terminamos’ (we finish) and underlining key terms like ‘cansado’ (tired) and ‘las clases’ (classes). ¡Qué interesante!
Meet Portola’s New Profes
How to Get a Work Permit
How to Get a Work Permit
Celebrating 51 Years of Pride Month
Celebrating 51 Years of Pride Month
Holocaust Survivor Returns to Tell his Story Amid Rising Antisemitism
Holocaust Survivor Returns to Tell his Story Amid Rising Antisemitism
S2 Episode 01: Giving Thanks: What Does Gratitude Mean to You?
S2 Episode 01: Giving Thanks: What Does Gratitude Mean to You?
S1 Episode 05: Cultural Touchstones: How Do You Honor Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage?
S1 Episode 05: Cultural Touchstones: How Do You Honor Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage?
S1 Episode 04: Musical Milestones: “What Does Music Mean to You?”
Turning to a New Page: What will 2021 Bring?
Turning to a New Page: What will 2021 Bring?
Art, Student Expression and Connection: What Inspires You?
Art, Student Expression and Connection: What Inspires You?
November 2021: Volume 6 Issue 3
November 2021: Volume 6 Issue 3
October 2021: Volume 6 Issue 2
October 2021: Volume 6 Issue 2
September 2021: Volume 6 Issue 1
September 2021: Volume 6 Issue 1
May 2021: Volume 5 Issue 5
May 2021: Volume 5 Issue 5
April 2021: Volume 5 Issue 4
April 2021: Volume 5 Issue 4
The student news site of Portola High School

Portola Pilot
The student news site of Portola High School

Portola Pilot
Claudia Lin

Claudia Lin, Co Editor-in-Chief

Claudia Lin is your co-editor-in-chief for her third year on the Pilot. She is looking forward to making as many memories as possible for her last year on the Pilot, whether it be with new people she gets to interview or staff members she works with. When she is not editing articles or cringing at Ryne’s unusual usage of emojis, she can be found communicating with Pilot staff through Pikachu GIFs, rewatching Gilmore Girls, listening to Taylor Swift, and maybe even being mistaken for Charlotte at times.

All content by Claudia Lin
To conclude the Student Advisory Board on Education conference, delegates worked on electing the next student board member, a high school senior who sits on the State Board of Education as its seventh member. Each year, SABE hosts an election process that narrows down 12 semi-finalists to the top six, and after, the SBE reduces it to one, according to Tesoro High senior Stephanie Hu.

Student Advisory Board on Education Conference Develops Policy Proposals for State Board of Education

November 9, 2021
Individual awards for the contest include senior Ryne Dunman for first place in Features Writing, senior Michelle Kim for third place in Opinion Writing, senior Clara Ferreira Lopes for second place in Photography, sophomore Tara Vatandoust for second place in Features Writing and sophomore Tyler Kim for third place in News Writing.

Portola Pilot Takes Off at Virtual CSUN Journalism Day Conference

November 1, 2021
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo Chamber Choir director Scott Glysson motions for the ensemble to bow following their performances of three variations of “Ubi Caritas.” It was the collegiate choir’s first performance for a large-scale audience since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Glysson.

[Photo] Fall Choir Concert Performers Begin their ‘Homeward Bound’ to In-person Concerts

October 25, 2021
Fall Starbucks Drinks Review

Fall Starbucks Drinks Review

October 4, 2021
Growing up, social studies teacher and junior varsity girls’ soccer coach Samantha Ezratty has always wanted to teach kindergarten due to her love for kids. After volunteering with them, she said she realized that her love for history was something she wanted to pursue for the rest of her life as she was always involved in her high school’s student government, and it was the first place she learned to write.

Girls’ Soccer Program Scores a Goal with New Coach Samantha Ezratty

September 29, 2021
Following the release of “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” controversy emerged regarding Disney CEO Bob Chapek’s comment. Chapek called the film an experiment due to it being the first franchise title to hit theaters without offering streaming services through Disney+, according to the Atlantic. Actor Simu Liu, who plays Shang-Chi, responded to these comments on Twitter saying, “We are not an experiment. We are the surprise.”

Martial Arts Meets Marvel in ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’

September 17, 2021
All 11 songs from “SOUR” have placed on the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 30 as of June 1 with “good 4 u” taking up the No. 2 spot on the charts.“SOUR” also launched at No.1 on the Billboard 200, surpassing singer-songwriter Taylor Swift’s “Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” for the most successful week of 2021 for any album, according to Billboard.

Olivia Rodrigo’s Debut Album is ‘good 4 u’

June 3, 2021
Northwood High sophomore Zilin Jin created the selected design for the mural, part of which is shown in the mock-up above. The design conveys the vigor of youth-led social justice activism through bright swatches of color and an emphasis on unity.

‘Paint for No Hate’ Mural Project Draws Attention to Asian Hate Crimes

June 2, 2021
Senior Ashley Presnell currently plays attacking positions on the field. Starting as a midfielder her sophomore year, she built her skills over her junior and senior years to be well-suited for the position. “As someone who plays on attack, I wasn’t a high-scoring player in previous years, so for me, my personal battle was taking more shots on goal, and that’s something that I’ve worked towards improving all four years and I finally feel confident about it this year,” Presnell said.

Senior Ashley Presnell Sticks to the Sport She Loves

June 1, 2021
Pop Performance drummer and sophomore Sky Jaan practices with his band, which consists of guitarists junior Cody Maier and senior Trevor Howden and bass player and senior Jeffrey Wang.

[Photo] Drum Roll Please for the Only Drummer in Pop Performance, Sky Jaan

May 11, 2021
Northwood High’s offensive player holds the ball as Weidner and Zdanavage double team her and stall so defense has enough time to adjust accordingly. “We knew that Northwood was going to come back and be an even more difficult opponent than the last time we played them because the last time we played them, we beat them,” defender and junior Diya Nadig said.

Girls’ Lacrosse vs. Northwood 5/3

May 7, 2021
Moon works on uploading listings of his newest items, packs of collectible basketball cards, onto his computer. Each sale involves careful research and calculation of the market value, consumer demand and potential profit margin of the product, which Moon has perfected over the past two years.

[Photo] Student Small Businesses: eCommerce Company Takes Senior to the Moon

May 6, 2021
Senior Natalie Yu constructs a prototype of a small mechanical ‘automata box’ during Introduction to Engineering Design, which was first introduced as a course option for the 2020-21 school year. The debut of Principles of Engineering next school year is the second step of a collaborative effort between engineering teacher Anthony Pham, principal John Pehrson and IUSD’s ROP/CTE division to create an engineering pathway for Portola High students.

[Photo] New Engineering Course Builds Framework for Hands-On Learning

April 29, 2021
Right forward and junior Krista Calkins uses her body to protect the ball from the Vaqueros’ defender with hopes of finding another forward to drive it up the field. Calkins was substituted in for Song in the last seven minutes of the half.

Girls’ Soccer Scores Victory and Redemption against the Vaqueros

April 29, 2021
“Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” features old and new collaborations with artists Colbie Caillat, Maren Morris and Keith Urban. Caillat described working with Swift once more as “an instant yes,” according to Insider.

Taylor Swift’s ‘Fearless’ Re-Recordings Symbolize Reclamation

April 26, 2021
Football takes a break from their warm-up during a practice Feb. 26 in preparation for their shortened spring season, which will run from March 12 to April 16. For viewers, four weeks of freshman, junior varsity and varsity football games up to April 8 are currently scheduled to be broadcast over the National Federation of State High School Associations’ online network.

Spring Sports Return to Play under Stringent Precautions

March 16, 2021
Junior Jay Hernandez assembled a box to store their Dungeons & Dragons supplies as well as smaller, unfinished art projects. Plastered on top of the box is a painting by Hernandez of the symbol of “The Bureau of Balance,” where most of the Balance Arc of the D&D podcast “Adventure Zone” starts. The symbol is adorned with forget-me-not flowers, which reference the main plot point of the podcast: to remember the past, according to Hernandez. “It was also a reminder to me to hold tight to the precious memories I’ve made with my friends,” Hernandez said.

Art through the Eyes of a Dungeon Master: Junior Jay Hernandez

March 8, 2021
Club member and freshman Alexander Epps often practices signing to co-president and junior Julianna Epps in one-to-one conversations. Together, they work on basics by asking and answering questions in sign language like, “Do you have a sister?”

American Sign Language Club Motions for Inclusivity

February 26, 2021
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and former President Donald Trump, two of the most prominent politicians who have been idolized, regularly used social media sites like Twitter to communicate with their constituents, according to the Washington Post. These interactions lend themselves to the creation of online personas that attract Americans.

American Politicians should not be American Idols

February 23, 2021
Olivia Rodrigo’s ‘Drivers License’ Is on the Road to Success

Olivia Rodrigo’s ‘Drivers License’ Is on the Road to Success

February 4, 2021
“Soul” breaks ground in Pixar Animation history by being the first film to feature an African-American protagonist. Behind the scenes, Pixar also defies expectations in representation by including one of the most diverse voice casts, which has a majority of Black voice actors.

Pixar Pours Heart and ‘Soul’ into Existential Animated Film

January 22, 2021
Drawn by AP Studio Art: Drawing student and senior Natalie Yu, this piece is titled “Smile! You’re on Camera,” which is the phrase that Yu explores in her art. Through her use of inverted images and a self-portrait, Yu captures the message that being on camera is something she fears rather than smiles for.

AP Art Students Self-Reflect by Compiling Annual Portfolios

January 11, 2021
Hours before the album’s release, Swift took to Instagram on Dec. 11 to post promotional pictures for “willow,” the lead single off her surprise album “evermore.” Just five months after the release of her previous album, “folklore,” Swift treats fans to a similarly-styled journey in her second surprise drop of 2020.

Taylor Swift’s Genre-Defying Skill Lasts ‘evermore’

January 4, 2021
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, human activity came to a standstill, giving the natural world time to heal. Spending seemingly-endless days in quarantine allowed many across the globe, including those in the Portola High community, to examine their individual impacts on the environment and make personal changes for the better.

Stepping Towards Earth’s Crises

December 14, 2020
Of all of Max Gatti’s accomplishments in football, he is most proud of winning the Pacific Coast League during last year’s season, in which he played as a two-way starter.

Maxwell Gatti Reflects on his Football Journey

November 9, 2020
Because of its increasing popularity, the company that released “Among Us”, Innersloth, released merchandise for fans to purchase including t-shirts and plushies.

A Popular Game is ‘Among Us’

November 3, 2020
Avatar: The Last Airbender (ATLA) revolves around a world where characters have the ability to control, or bend, one element—water, earth, fire or air—with the exception of the Avatar, who can control all four elements. The show is particularly captivating due to the friendship between the main protagonists: Aang, the Avatar; Katara, a waterbender; Sokka, Katara’s brother; Toph, an earthbender and Zuko, a firebender whose goal is to capture the Avatar.

Bending the Rules: How ‘Avatar: the Last Airbender’ Remains Timeless

September 15, 2020
The audition information meeting was held on Sept. 14, during which Sanford released information regarding the audition process and future dates for all theater members to be aware of. The technology crew and design team information meeting will be held on Sept. 21 on Google Meet.

Standing Ovation for Theater Community as Fall Play Goes Virtual

September 14, 2020
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

June 4, 2020
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

June 2, 2020
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

May 27, 2020
In order to cure the recent boredom due to stay-at-home orders, many people have resorted to online gaming as a means for passing the time with loved ones. “Psych” is one of the most popular quarantine games. Its development dates back to 2015 when comedian Ellen DeGeneres designed the app.

Best Multiplayer Gaming Apps to Play During Quarantine

April 24, 2020
In regards to sourcing their coffee beans, Able Coffee Roasters works with a foundation named Café Femenino. Dedicated to improving the economic and social rights of female coffee workers, Café Femenino pays a fair trade cost for all of the coffee beans that these women farm.

Local Coffee Company Brews Cheer During Crisis

April 10, 2020

City of Irvine Breaks Ground With Innovative Projects

March 24, 2020
Should the Houston Astros Be Stripped of the World Series Title?

Should the Houston Astros Be Stripped of the World Series Title?

March 13, 2020

An Asterisk for the Astros

March 12, 2020
After months of diligent practice, sophomore and Magic Club president Desmond Wong performs the famous card spring trick that has been a long-standing favorite in magic history. To engage people who are unfamiliar with magic, club meetings normally consist of members staging close up magic tricks in a parlor-like setting.

Revealing the Inner Workings of Magic Club

March 12, 2020
Sophomore Ashley Kwon calls her dad, who just finished performing a surgery in Seoul, for their daily check-in via FaceTime.

Mini Love Stories

February 21, 2020

The Price of Promoting Diversity

February 19, 2020
Nate Taylor

Should Ethnic Studies Be a Graduation Requirement in High Schools?

February 19, 2020
After months of preparation, the DECA team competes in its first competition in Anaheim where they competed against other schools located in Orange County.

DECA Business Club Prepares for Inaugural Competition

January 16, 2020
Senior and Girl Scout Troop 2065 member Lauren Kettner successfully achieved her Gold Award by introducing her project “Reach Out to Knowledge,” which focused on helping educate children on concepts they may forget throughout the summer at local libraries.

Empowered Girl Scouts Pursue Gold Award Projects

January 15, 2020
Should the Gradebook be Blacked Out During Winter Break?

Should the Gradebook be Blacked Out During Winter Break?

December 20, 2019

Take a Break, Make it Closed

December 20, 2019

Bulldogs Deliver Victory Against Irvine for Forthcoming Game

December 18, 2019
With suicide being the second leading cause of death, Hope Squad focuses on targetting this prevalent issue through three important steps: prevention, intervention and postvention.

Hope Squad Brings Peer Support to Campus

December 3, 2019
Passion Day coordinator and visual arts teacher Kearci Moir works with junior and committee member Mona Tavassoli to develop new methods that seek to increase student engagement in the annual Passion Day event. They plan on executing this through sending out a google form asking students about their passions to ensure that there is a session suitable for a diverse student body.

Passion Day Planning Committee Recruits Student Voices

November 15, 2019
Ariana Wu, Kristen Ok, Saachi Pavani, Allison Shi, and Lauren Hwang remain in their seats, waiting for one of the three total panel presentations to commence. Among the many speakers in this conference, the female judges ‒especially one first-generation immigrant judge‒ stood out because of their personal stories on the difficulties of career advancement.

Aspiring Female Students Empowered by Youth Female Civic Leadership Conference

October 31, 2019
Jeralyn Newton witnesses Pacific Marine Mammal Center’s weekly event where the mammals that have recovered from sickness or injuries are released back into the ocean.

Science Teacher’s Fulfilling Summer Working with Marine Life

September 26, 2019
Cappies members sophomore Paris Suttle, junior Raksha Rajeshmohan, senior Nick Sanchez, sophomore Sushmitha Koomar and sophomore Kristen Fong attend “American Mariachi” at South Coast Repertory for their first show as a team. After the show, the group participated in insightful conversations regarding the set, lighting and design of the production.

VAPA Sets Stage for New Cappies Program

September 24, 2019
From left to right, counseling interns Jamie Murphy, Diana Gutierezz, and Chloe Pines help orient and support students throughout the tumultuous times of high school.

Chat with New Counseling Interns

September 23, 2019
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Claudia Lin