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Portola Pilot
Health assistant Mike Byer organizes student files at the health office. On their fifth day of quarantine, students can take a rapid COVID-19 test. If the results are negative, they may return in-person the next school day; however, if the results are positive, they must stay home the full duration of their 14-day quarantine, according to school nurse James Matejcek.
‘Will IUSD Close Schools? Will Winter Formal be Cancelled?’ – Answering Your COVID-19 Questions
Led by assistant drum major and senior Seira Homma and drum major and senior Bia Shok, the Pride of Portola marching band played pep tunes, such as the school fight song and “Word Up” by Cameo.
Gallery: Winter Pep Rally
Tustin High School juniors and seniors who have prior Model United Nations experience judge the delegates based on the quality of their position paper, debate and overall participation.
Portola’s MUN Club Enters their first MUN Conference after COVID-19
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
Health assistant Mike Byer organizes student files at the health office. On their fifth day of quarantine, students can take a rapid COVID-19 test. If the results are negative, they may return in-person the next school day; however, if the results are positive, they must stay home the full duration of their 14-day quarantine, according to school nurse James Matejcek.
‘Will IUSD Close Schools? Will Winter Formal be Cancelled?’ – Answering Your COVID-19 Questions
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
Health assistant Mike Byer organizes student files at the health office. On their fifth day of quarantine, students can take a rapid COVID-19 test. If the results are negative, they may return in-person the next school day; however, if the results are positive, they must stay home the full duration of their 14-day quarantine, according to school nurse James Matejcek.
‘Will IUSD Close Schools? Will Winter Formal be Cancelled?’ – Answering Your COVID-19 Questions
Led by assistant drum major and senior Seira Homma and drum major and senior Bia Shok, the Pride of Portola marching band played pep tunes, such as the school fight song and “Word Up” by Cameo.
Gallery: Winter Pep Rally
Tustin High School juniors and seniors who have prior Model United Nations experience judge the delegates based on the quality of their position paper, debate and overall participation.
Portola’s MUN Club Enters their first MUN Conference after COVID-19
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
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
Marisa Wilkerson stands in front of the U.S. Capitol Building during 2017 when she moved to Washington, D.C. for her internship with an interest group during college.
Social Studies Teacher Turns Political Advocacy to Teaching Political Literacy
Actress Elaine Stritch, Stephen Sondheim, and actress Jane Russell converse on the set of Sondheim’s musical “Company” in 1971. The show proved to be a success for the composer, winning four Tony Awards that year, including the award for Best Musical.
Authentically Human: The Legacy of Stephen Sondheim
Sophomore Tabatha Perdomo, junior Mia Linville and senior Nicole Phillip use a seam ripper to dismantle a pair of old jeans for their patches.
In with the Old, Out with the New
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
Symphonic Orchestra unites with Portola Singers on stage to perform George Frideric Handel’s “Sinfonia” and “For Unto Us A Child Is Born.” “[Choir] had invited us to play at their concert last week, and so this is sort of a reciprocal thing where they’re going to come and sing with us at our concert,” instrumental music teacher Desmond Stevens said.
Annual Winter Instrumental Concert Sweetens Holiday Cheer
Portobellas choir performs an a cappella rendition of “Carol of the Bells” by Pentatonix. An a cappella performance is a special type of polyphonic singing that does not involve any musical accompaniment.
Choir Students Upraise the ‘Spirit of the Season’ in Annual Winter Vocal Concert
Various students across all dance classes performed “Don’t Call Me Back” to the song “These Boys Ain’t It” by Saygrace, which included themes of female empowerment.
Annual Winter Dance Concert ‘Breaking the Ice’ Leaves Audiences in Shivers
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
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
With the return of many Sony franchise villains such as Green Goblin, Electro and Dr. Otto Octavius, it was difficult to understand the role that many of them played. Only a select few played a major position, while others such as the Lizard were present for the sole purpose of fan service. Condensing the movie to a select villain with a strong motive would be a better decision for the overall plot.
‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ is a Tangled Web of Nostalgia
Taylor Swift Finally Gets to ‘Begin Again’ in ‘Red’ Re-Recording
Taylor Swift Finally Gets to ‘Begin Again’ in ‘Red’ Re-Recording
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
Creating a more LGBTQ+ inclusive environment can be as simple as using someone’s preferred pronouns, avoiding the use of derogatory language or refraining from referring to someone by their deadname. “You could educate yourself. It doesnt have to be full-on like research, but just being aware,” a sophomore who would like to remain anonymous said.
Homophobia Is Not Making Anyone Less Gay
Larger papers overshadow local ones and, in response, many local papers end up disappearing or becoming what is known as “ghost newspapers:” publications whose staff is so small that it becomes nearly impossible to publish articles regularly.
Breaking News: Read your Local Newspaper
Youth are often not held completely responsible for their crimes, especially first degree felonies like homicide and sexual offenses. The number of juveniles receiving a life sentence without parole dropped 6% even though the number of serious youth crimes increased by 13% within the past five years, according to New York Times.
Setting a Standard: Trying Juveniles for First-Degree Assaults
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
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
Defender and sophomore Kyle Hwang attempts to fend off opposing players from the ball in order to look for a scoring opportunity in the second half. Hwang’s role as defender makes him responsible for preventing the opponents from scoring.
Boys’ Soccer Shoots for the Stars Against Orange High
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
Senior Khalil Dhanidina Skates His Way to the Top
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 Christmas Movie Should You Watch?
Quiz: What Christmas Movie Should You Watch?
15. Coat the top of your cake with the cake crumbles. You can also decorate your cake with any leftover whipping cream you might have. Enjoy your sweet potato cake!
A Korean Sweet Potato Cake Recipe to Spice up Your Fall
Cooking $20 Thanksgiving Feast
Cooking $20 Thanksgiving Feast
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?
15. Coat the top of your cake with the cake crumbles. You can also decorate your cake with any leftover whipping cream you might have. Enjoy your sweet potato cake!
A Korean Sweet Potato Cake Recipe to Spice up Your Fall
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
From the MET to Portola: Homecoming’s Best Dressed
From the MET to Portola: Homecoming’s Best Dressed
Quiz: What Christmas Movie Should You Watch?
Quiz: What Christmas Movie Should You Watch?
Cooking $20 Thanksgiving Feast
Cooking $20 Thanksgiving Feast
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
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?
December 2021: Volume 6 Issue 4
December 2021: Volume 6 Issue 4
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
With the return of many Sony franchise villains such as Green Goblin, Electro and Dr. Otto Octavius, it was difficult to understand the role that many of them played. Only a select few played a major position, while others such as the Lizard were present for the sole purpose of fan service. Condensing the movie to a select villain with a strong motive would be a better decision for the overall plot.
‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ is a Tangled Web of Nostalgia
Symphonic Orchestra unites with Portola Singers on stage to perform George Frideric Handel’s “Sinfonia” and “For Unto Us A Child Is Born.” “[Choir] had invited us to play at their concert last week, and so this is sort of a reciprocal thing where they’re going to come and sing with us at our concert,” instrumental music teacher Desmond Stevens said.
Annual Winter Instrumental Concert Sweetens Holiday Cheer
Portobellas choir performs an a cappella rendition of “Carol of the Bells” by Pentatonix. An a cappella performance is a special type of polyphonic singing that does not involve any musical accompaniment.
Choir Students Upraise the ‘Spirit of the Season’ in Annual Winter Vocal Concert
Attracting many students to the lunch performance event in the beginning of lunch, ASB president and senior Amitoj Singh sings “thank you, next” by Ariana Grande. He sings while the orchestra, band, and choir members get set up to perform right after.
Fine Arts Lunch Performance ‘Rapped’ up the Semester with Holiday Tunes
Various students across all dance classes performed “Don’t Call Me Back” to the song “These Boys Ain’t It” by Saygrace, which included themes of female empowerment.
Annual Winter Dance Concert ‘Breaking the Ice’ Leaves Audiences in Shivers
Jeanne Jelnick, a retired teacher and beloved member of the Portola High community, reminisces on her time at Portola High while shifting focus to writing and theatre.
Momma J: Where is She Now?
Marisa Wilkerson stands in front of the U.S. Capitol Building during 2017 when she moved to Washington, D.C. for her internship with an interest group during college.
Social Studies Teacher Turns Political Advocacy to Teaching Political Literacy
Actress Elaine Stritch, Stephen Sondheim, and actress Jane Russell converse on the set of Sondheim’s musical “Company” in 1971. The show proved to be a success for the composer, winning four Tony Awards that year, including the award for Best Musical.
Authentically Human: The Legacy of Stephen Sondheim
Freshman Mourya Nunna applies fertilizer to an orange tree while volunteering at Farm and Food Lab on Oct. 6. Farm and Food Lab club members bond and cooperate under the supervision of executive director of Farm and Food Lab at Great Park Nathan Gipple.
The Farm and Food Lab Club Cultivates Passion for Farming
Long-term math substitute teacher Eugene Hung (right) was a featured panelist at the KPCC panel in May 2018 where he discussed the impact of the #MeToo movement on faith communities. In addition to his work as a speaker, Hung has written for various faith-based and secular publications, such as the Huffington Post, Sojourners, Red Letter Christians and Christians for Biblical Equality.
Shattering the Silence
The student news site of Portola High School

Portola Pilot
The student news site of Portola High School

Portola Pilot
Emma Haag

Emma Haag, Sports Editor

Emma Haag is the 2021-2022 Sports Editor for the second year, and it is her third year as a part of the Portola Pilot. Emma has a strong interest in sports in general, as well as sports reporting and photography. Outside of the Portola Pilot, her favorite classes are any in S.T.E.M and is a part of Portola Pep Squad! She enjoys listening to RnB and rap, especially SZA and Don Toliver. She is more than thrilled to see what the new year has to offer!

All content by Emma Haag
With all of the issues people had with this album’s release, Kanye West repaid that debt tenfold with amazing hooks, vocals, production, and features. West, again, solidifies himself as the creator of one of the best albums of the year so far. Rest in peace Donda West.

Kanye West’s Long Awaited Album is Finally Done-da

September 15, 2021
CDC Lifting of Safety Requirements Poses a Huge Threat

CDC Lifting of Safety Requirements Poses a Huge Threat

May 27, 2021
While students may challenge themselves by taking on a rigorous course load packed with APs, they should have the self-knowledge to drop courses if their mental health falters.

To Manage AP-Related Stress, Student Initiative Is the Key to Success

May 10, 2021
The effects of climate change will become irreversible by 2030 unless drastic measures are taken to protect the planet, according to the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. “I feel like every day should be Earth Day. It’s important to recognize just how precious the planet that we live on is,” science teacher Michael Tang said. “There’s nothing like it. As of now, we don’t know of any planet that’s habitable like ours, and so its very important for us to learn and to remember that we need to be good stewards of the Earth.”

Students and Staff Plant Awareness to Celebrate Earth Day

May 5, 2021
Mainstream pop artists: Doja Cat and J Balvin; rap artists BROCKHAMPTON, A$AP Ferg and A$AP Rocky; and r&b artists SZA and Khalid released their long-awaited music on April 9 that had fans anticipating the release.

Hot New Releases to Add to Your Spring Jams

April 21, 2021
Vice president candidate and junior Stella Jung and newly elected ASB president and junior Amitoj Singh hang posters around Portola High to publicize their campaign. ASB candidates used a combination of posters and flyers and hung them on stairwells and bulletin boards.

Introducing the 2021-22 Elected ASB Officials

March 26, 2021
AP U.S. History teacher Wind Ralston prepares his students for their online AP exam by practicing analyzing a political cartoon. AP U.S. History is one of the classes that includes all units from the curriculum and will not exclude any units due to the pandemic.

Portola High Selects 2nd Testing Window for Upcoming AP Exams

March 4, 2021
The COVID-19 pandemic has only served to exacerbate socioeconomic disadvantages for students, as was made clear by last years AP testing missteps. As AP season approaches in May, measures must be taken to ensure that external impacts on students performances from slow Internet connections, disabilities, or family responsibilities are minimized.

Equity Remains Key to 2021 AP Testing

January 29, 2021
Netflixs hit television series Cobra Kai has been renewed for its fourth season which is scheduled to release January 2022 with the original cast and more guests.

Season Three of Netflix’s ‘Cobra Kai’ Honors Original ‘Karate Kid’ Films

January 29, 2021
After going viral on TikTok and other social media platforms, teens all around the world are watching Megan Is Missing, a horror/thriller movie all about a teenager going missing after meeting a fake person online.

Mediocre Movie Gains Popularity for Obscene Content: ‘Megan is Missing’

January 13, 2021
Looking for a means to support their families by driving to school themselves, student drivers must grapple with whether the stress alleviated with a parking permit is worth its $40 per semester cost. Despite this, it is important to keep in mind that lowering the price of a parking permit would raise more serious concerns from a campus perspective than it would resolve.

[Photo] Look To Student Responsibilities In Lieu of Lower Parking Costs

January 6, 2021
Shalonda Abubakar, the newest addition to IUSD’s community liaison team, is a resource for anyone in the Black and African-American community. She believes a positive mindset can hear everyone for success.

Shalonda Abubakar Joins IUSD as Community Liaison for Black and African-American Families

December 11, 2020
Due to Covid-19 safety guidelines, Portola locker rooms remain closed until case numbers fall. The closure has caused concerns for some students, while others do not mind.

[Photo] Locker Rooms Remain Closed Due to COVID-19

December 9, 2020
Mindfulness Despite Madness

Mindfulness Despite Madness

December 7, 2020
It is believed that every zodiac sign has their own distinct traits. While one’s zodiac sun sign plays a large part in determining personality traits, the moon and the rising signs can attribute individuals with more specific traits.

Do Their Zodiac Signs Make These Teachers Compatible?

December 7, 2020

VAPA Requirement Restricts Students from Finding True Passions

November 30, 2020
Families from every part of the United States have their own Thanksgiving traditions, many of which include unique recipes. From something as classic as pumpkin pie, to a variety of cultural foods, Thanksgiving dinner is guaranteed to bring people together.

A Guide to the Perfect Thanksgiving Table

November 25, 2020
While Grande has been able to produce a number of popular songs, “positions,” “34+35” and “pov” from her new album “Positions” are currently ranked in the top 50 songs of the Billboard Hot 100.

Ariana Grande Releases Third Hit Album in Past Two Years

November 23, 2020
As both one of Portola Highs key graduation requirements and a prerequisite to many colleges including the UCs, visual and performing arts classes are a part of every students high school experience.

H2H: Can VAPA Requirements Expand Student Learning?

November 11, 2020
Senior Sonia Goyal wraps each sticker with tissue paper and twine when packaging her products. She usually orders in bulk and packages each sticker separately for different customers, or she orders in bulk and sends the entire box of stickers to the buyer.

Student Small Businesses : Senior Sonia Goyal’s Art Sticks Out From the Rest

October 23, 2020
After many years of debate experience, Singh says testing his abilities at an extremely high level, he is finally able to see his progress, and is proud of how far he has come.

Junior Amitoj Singh Cuts Close to Nationals at Yale Invitational Debate Tournament

October 22, 2020
Musicians Joji (left), Bryson Tiller (middle) and 21 Savage (right) all released new hit albums within the last month for fans to play on repeat. Each artist made a comeback with a refreshing twist to their old styles, surprising many fans but disappointing others.

Finally, New Music to Add to My Playlist: Bryson Tiller, Joji and 21 Savage

October 16, 2020
With the increased use of social media apps such as Instagram, TikTok and Twitter, cancel culture has grown to take a larger toll on celebrities and influencers than it ever has before.

The Toxic Rise of Cancel Culture

October 14, 2020
Zendaya Coleman makes history with her Emmy Award for her role as Rue Bennett in HBO drama series “Euphoria, beating out actresses Jodie Comer, Sandra Oh, Olivia Colman, Jennifer Aniston and Laura Linney.

Zendaya Makes History after Winning Emmy for HBO’s ‘Euphoria’

October 7, 2020
PHS Ambassadors typically give campus tours before the start of the school year, but due to COVID-19 regulations, changes had to be made.

PHS Ambassadors Find New Ways to Work Under COVID-19 Regulations

October 7, 2020
The University of Californias(UC) vote to phase out the SAT/ACT helps and benefits students to their advantage or are a detriment to other students compared to others.

H2H: University of California Drops SAT/ACT Requirements

September 18, 2020

UCs Dropping SAT/ACT Benefits Classes 2021 to 2024

September 18, 2020
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

June 3, 2020
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

May 28, 2020
Portola High obtained the 1st Team Safe Sports School Award for following both the requirements and the recommendations set by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association. Examples of categories include athlete injury protocol, athletic clearance processes and procedures for emergencies like earthquakes or fires.

[Photo] Portola High Becomes First IUSD School to Secure Safe Sports School Award

May 22, 2020
Literary and language arts teacher Doris Schlothan is one of the teachers who has been using the TikTok app to connect with students through their witty videos.

Teacher TikToks: Spread Positivity during Quarantine

May 7, 2020

With Social Media, Maybe Isolation Isn’t So Bad After All

April 23, 2020
Uzi may have meticulously planned the release date of March 6, the 66th day of 2020, to show the numbers “666” to represent his affiliation with satanism.

Lil Uzi Vert Debuts His Three Personas in ‘Eternal Atake’

March 27, 2020

Spring Sports Postponed

March 18, 2020
The Alley had its grand opening on Feb.17, when the first 100 people were eligible to receive free merchandise and a half-off drink price. Since its opening, there is often a line outside the store.

The Alley is an Ally for All Boba Lovers

March 16, 2020

High school Relationships Positively Benefit Teens

March 2, 2020
In an interview with Elite Daily, Robert Glatter, an assistant professor of emergency medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital, explains how having a crush on someone can cause the release of dopamine and serotonin. Due to the release of these feel-good chemicals, the beginning stages of love can make you feel good mentally, and may even act as a form of self-motivation.

How Does Your Crush Make You Feel?

February 26, 2020
Boys basketball celebrates its league win after senior Mohsen Hasheimi shoots a game-winning shot in the last second of the game. The teammates celebrate their comeback after losing to Beckman 49-60 earlier in the season.

Bulldogs Take First in League with Last Minute Shot

February 4, 2020

Teachers React to TikToks

January 28, 2020
Literary and language arts teacher Kate Avery has been teaching for a total of four years, three at Portola High. She teaches three sections of Honors Dystopian Literature and two sections of Honors American Literature.

Writing or Grading Essays: Who has the Easier Job?

January 17, 2020
Freshman Moka Saiki shoots a two-point shot during practice to prepare for the upcoming winter season. The next varsity girls’ basketball game will be on Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. against Capistrano Valley High.

Freshmen Girls Take on Varsity Winter Sports

November 19, 2019
Athletic trainer Kathryn Cleek tapes a student’s ankle before practice. Approximately five hours of Cleek’s day is designated for treating athletes with both short-and-long term injuries.

New Athletic Trainer is “Living the Pedigree”

November 19, 2019
Kombucha is a probiotic-rich beverage that provides many health benefits including enhancing digestive and liver health. The company, Health-Ade Kombucha is a Los Angeles-based company that strives to have the “best tasting and highest quality kombucha,” according to their website.

Reviewing Kombucha, the Famously-Fermented Fizzy Drink

November 18, 2019
Club adviser Shelley Godett stands with (left to right) seniors Harry Song, William Hsieh, Nikhil Jha, junior Anthony Tan, seniors Joyee Chen and Nicholas Delianedis at the Math Day at the Beach competition.

Math Club Has Much in Store for Portola

November 3, 2019
Tight end and senior Joey Omar scores a touchdown in the first quarter, putting Portola in the lead with the score of 6-0.

First Ever Bulldog Win Against Beckman High

October 15, 2019
Freshmen side flyers Demetris Owens and Katelyn Toulmin stands next to sophomore center flyer Hailey Kim, in a stunt at a junior varsity football match against Laguna Hills High.

[Photo] Cheer Flies Into Season with New System

October 9, 2019
After a long day in the classroom, coach Allison Leyva readily heads to three hours of pep squad practice.

Welcoming New Cheer Coach Allison Leyva to the Bulldog Family

September 20, 2019
Senior and co-captain Dylan Gates aggressively swims towards a Crean Lutheran player, in an attempt to steal the ball. Being able to quickly transition from defense to offense with swift turnovers was one of Portola’s strengths that lead to the team’s victory.

[Photo] Boys’ Water Polo Makes A Splash

September 13, 2019
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Emma Haag