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
Justin Tang

Justin Tang, Back Page Editor

Justin Tang is the Portola Pilot’s Back Page Editor for the 2021-22 school year, his second and last on the team. Throughout the year, he’ll make sure to keep both friends and geometric shapes close as he breaks the arrow keys on his computer trying to adjust his page layouts. If you happen to catch him outside of the newsroom, you might witness him taking photos of the ever-astounding night sky or writing overly complex computer programs to solve simple problems.

All content by Justin Tang
According to choir teacher Nina Crecia, who composed “Eternal Bond” for Canta Bella, one does not become a composer only when they gain recognition or create a masterpiece — one becomes a composer when they write their first song. “It can sometimes be a hindrance when you think you have to be amazing at something, because everybody has to start somewhere,” Crecia said. “So start by starting: if you have one idea, just honor that idea and let it flourish and write that song.”

Choir Teacher Nina Crecia Helps Canta Bella Celebrate Its “Eternal Bond

Grace Baek and Justin Tang | May 23, 2022
Sophomore Zain Alzobiedie receives the football during a varsity game against University High on Oct. 8, 2021. Having picked up football as a second sport in his freshman year, Alzobiedie said he still has quite a bit to learn. “When I first joined football, I wasn’t going to prioritize it,” Alzobiedie said. “But then I realized that I wasn’t really good enough, so I put in a lot of extra work: lifted every day, worked every day. I always tried to be the best I could be.”

The Art of Inspiration: A Look Inside How Athlete Zain Alzobiedie Finds Motivation

Shaina Taebi and Justin Tang | May 10, 2022
Assistant softball coach Jamie Gilbert and head softball coach Chloe Gilbert discuss the girls’ softball team’s defense as the team prepares to practice fielding on March 31. “Both of our coaches are very passionate about what they do,” senior Alexa Becerra said. “They’re both very strict, but they both have a very funny and charismatic personality, and it makes us all want to have more fun.”

Inseparable: The Story of Sisters and Softball Coaches Chloe and Jamie Gilbert

Nate Taylor and Justin Tang | April 11, 2022
Students write responses to prompts, such as their favorite part of the brain or which parts of brain research interest them most, on a poster at the Irvine Brain Bee, which took place on March 5. Over 40 high schools were represented at the event, according to information from competition director Manuella Yassa. *Content Warning: The following image in this photo gallery contains an uncensored image of a human brain*

Neuroscience on the Mind: Students Compete in Irvine Brain Bee

Justin Tang | March 22, 2022
For students who feel that AP Physics 1 is too daunting or that CP Physics wouldn’t be the best fit for their interests or abilities, Principles of Engineering can offer an alternative that involves a survey of the applications of physics. However, the focus is placed on fostering interest in engineering rather than making the course an intermediate course in physics, according to physics and engineering teacher Anthony Pham — a possible reason that it has gone under the radar for many students entering their junior year.

‘Hidden’ Classes: How Can Engineering Courses Be Better Promoted During Course Selection?

Kayleen Kim and Justin Tang | March 15, 2022
AP Studio Art student and senior Summer Sim’s work “Let Boys Be Feminine” boldly states that individuals need not be bound by gender stereotypes. The feminine eye and mouth that define the piece highlight the importance of self-expression in ultimately discovering one’s identity.

All Coming Together: Seniors Tailor College Application Art Portfolios To Convey Powerful Themes

Justin Tang, Back Page Editor | February 23, 2022
Internships afford students opportunities to branch out into fields more specialized than typical high school courses allow. Some ROP programs offered at Portola High include automotive technology and animal healthcare, according to ROP counselor Pa Shia Escoto.

Not the Typical Day in the Office

Arnav Chandan and Justin Tang | February 11, 2022
Apart from immersing students in the world of imagination, reading can also prepare students for real-world situations. “You take away certain themes and lessons from books, and even if they’re not kids’ moral books, they help you prepare for certain things in life,” senior Aarushi Shankar said. “I get a lot more lessons from books than I do from other places.”

A Novel Idea: ‘Reading Days’ Could Give Students Chance to Disconnect

Sidra Asif and Justin Tang | February 8, 2022
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

Zara Shirwany and Justin Tang | December 13, 2021
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

Justin Tang and Martin Yoon | November 23, 2021
Junior Emma Song, junior Citlali Garcia-Montero, sophomore Jadyn Kohan, and junior Xasive Espinosa practice offense and defense during a two-on-two drill during practice on Nov. 9. In addition to sport-specific technique, winter sports athletes also condition through regular fitness exercises and work to lower injury risks by warming up before practice or play, according to assistant athletics director Brian Smith.

Enthusiasm, Bonding, and Plenty of Practice Come Together As Winter Sports Prepare for Season Ahead

Justin Tang, Back Page Editor | November 18, 2021
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

Justin Tang, Back Page Editor | October 22, 2021
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

Justin Tang, Back Page Editor | October 8, 2021
Though she’s coached Pep Squad since the 2018-19 school year, this year is Mackey’s first as a certified teacher at Portola. “Really, it was my first year being here that actually shifted my life plan. I started coaching here, and it made me want to become a teacher,” Mackey said.

Cheer Coach Allie Mackey Steps into New Chapter at Portola High

Justin Tang, Back Page Editor | September 21, 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

Claudia Lin and Justin Tang | June 2, 2021
Senior Allison Kramer swims the breaststroke at a summer Irvine Swim League meet in 2019.

Senior Allison Kramer Takes Cleats and Goggles with Her in College Commitment

Ryan Jung and Justin Tang | May 24, 2021
Seniors passions have led them to a variety of colleges and universities — some across the country and others right at home.

Seniors Make Major Decisions for Future Success

Ava Caleca and Justin Tang | May 7, 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.

New Engineering Course Builds Framework for Hands-On Learning

Justin Tang, Staff Writer | April 29, 2021
Home football games allow the football team, marching band and cheer team to unite Portola High under the banner of school spirit.

Football, Cheer and Marching Band Reunite for the Football Season

Ryne Dunman and Justin Tang | March 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

Claudia Lin and Justin Tang | March 16, 2021
Members of ASB held the Find the Swedish Fish spirit activity, a nod to Pixars Finding Nemo, during breaks on Feb. 2 and 3. Students took turns trying their hands at locating the fish-shaped candy under one of three cups after a series of shuffles.

Spirit Week Takes Cue from Pixar

Justin Tang, Staff Writer | February 5, 2021
Though students focus on the distinction between online and in-person summer programs this year is founded on a variety of concerns, they should not lose sight of the undoubtedly positive experiences that all types of summer programs, whether virtual or physical, bring to the table, including insights offered by mentors and college-level expansion upon typical high school curricula.

Let Interests, Not Logistics, Guide Summer Program Selections

Justin Tang, Staff Writer | February 1, 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

Emma Haag and Justin Tang | January 29, 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.

Look To Student Responsibilities In Lieu of Lower Parking Costs

Justin Tang, Staff Writer | January 6, 2021
Pictured here preparing to move the ball forward, varsity water polo player Andrew Cherry often sets himself to hours of athletic practice each day. An integral part of each junior varsity game in last years season, Cherry looks to lead by example in his dedication at the varsity level.

Junior Andrew Cherry Eggbeaters Up to Occasion in Quest for Self-Improvement

Justin Tang, Staff Writer | December 18, 2020
Though the many movements that comprise social justice represent the struggles of different groups, their ultimate goal of universal equality shapes them into an indivisible whole. This phenomenon, formally dubbed ‘intersectionality’, is a key factor to consider for clubs at Portola High striving for change.

Clubs Create Intersection of Social Initiatives

Justin Tang | December 17, 2020
Those in favor of offering a larger variety of AP courses to underclassmen cite the educational benefits of the AP curriculum. Detractors argue that this move will impede students’ academic progression throughout high school.

H2H: How Accessible Should Advanced Placement Courses Be for Underclassmen?

Ryne Dunman and Justin Tang | November 23, 2020

Allowing Underclassmen More AP Choices Poses Too Great a Risk

Justin Tang, Staff Writer | November 23, 2020
As a precaution against COVID-19, instrumental music teacher Kyle Traska sprays a series of bucket drums with cleaning solvent after a Wind Ensemble rehearsal. With one assigned to each student, the buckets offer unique flexibility in both maintenance and curriculum.

Two Sticks and a Bucket Lend Musical Opportunities Amid Constraints

Justin Tang, Staff Writer | November 13, 2020
With one more year as a member of varsity volleyball, senior Kamdyn Tenorio said she hopes to continue penning her own story going forward, despite the challenges presented by COVID-19 this school year.

Kamdyn Tenorio Follows Through as Integral Team Player

Justin Tang, Staff Writer | October 13, 2020
IUSD communicates with parents, teachers and staff primarily through Instagram posts and emails.

Parents, Students and Faculty Weigh In On District Communication

Justin Tang and Ryan Jung | September 21, 2020
H2H: Are Summer Programs Worth It?

H2H: Are Summer Programs Worth It?

Tatsiana Barysiuk, Justin Tang, and Martin Yoon | April 27, 2020

Summer Programs Are a Waste of Time and Money

Justin Tang and Martin Yoon | April 27, 2020
Primaries Must Replace Caucuses in American Elections

Primaries Must Replace Caucuses in American Elections

Andrew Chen and Justin Tang | April 9, 2020
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The student news site of Portola High School
Justin Tang