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
Maya Sabbaghian

Maya Sabbaghian, Managing Editor

Maya Sabbaghian is one of two 2019-2020 Managing Editors. A staff member since 2016, Maya has previously served as a 2017-2018 Editor-in-Chief, and as Opinion and Features Editor. She is excited to bring her skills as a mentor, writer and designer to best capture the voices of students. Aside from working on the Pilot, Maya enjoys reading fiction novels, traveling around the world, competing in archery, and laughing along with Ellen Degeneres and Lucille Ball.

All content by Maya Sabbaghian
Given that testing is largely unavailable, wealthier communities can show higher cases of Coronavirus simply because they can gain access to testing easier. The data from the Department of Public Health shows that ethnic minorities are being affected more than any other group.

Minority Communities Have Been Hit Hardest by Coronavirus

Maya Sabbaghian, Managing Editor | May 8, 2020
The Haft-seen is an integral part of Nowruz. Each of the seven objects on the table signifies some idea or value that are important to the Persian culture, such as prosperity, beauty and patience.

A Different New Year’s: Welcoming Spring with Nowruz

Maya Sabbaghian, Managing Editor | March 26, 2020
UCI has received the most in-state freshman applications for two years now. In 2018, it missed it by only about 300 applicants to UCLA.

UCI Receives Over 70,000 In-State Applications

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Managing Editor | March 26, 2020
The influence Bruce Baron had as a mentor and teacher to Resendez has trickled down to Resendez’s students, whether in high school or as student teachers.

Social Studies Department Chair Jon Resendez Takes Over Old Friend and Mentor’s UCI Class

Maya Sabbaghian, Managing Editor | March 16, 2020
Congresswoman Katie Porter (third from the left) awarded seniors Patrick Cui, Stephanie Zhang, Brian Hawkins, Matthew Kwon and Jimmy Kang with a certificate to recognize their achievements.

Seniors Win CA-45 Congressional App Challenge

Kate Hayashi and Maya Sabbaghian | February 4, 2020
Freshman Molly Lamon-Paredes practices in the gym during her physical education period. Adaptive PE teacher Erie Eastman closely assists students to teach correct form and helps ensure each student enjoys the activity.

Special and General Education Meet on the Court

Maya Sabbaghian and Helena Hu | January 28, 2020
Senior Victor Loyola smiles as he explores different environments through the VR headset without leaving his seat. Among 8-to-17-year-olds who own virtual reality technology, 33% use the device for exploring environments, while 22% use it to learn something, according to a survey by Common Sense Media.

Virtual Reality Enhances Learning in the Social Studies Classroom

Maya Sabbaghian and Ki Joon Lee | January 17, 2020
When the Chicken Sandwich Craze Turns Deadly

When the Chicken Sandwich Craze Turns Deadly

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Managing Editor | November 26, 2019
Irvine Talks board members are charged with painting the mural for the event. Those painting the mural incorporated the theme of “Movement” in the artwork by making it a central focus of the work.

Record Number of Portola High Students Will Perform in Irvine Talks for an Evening of ‘Movement’

Maya Sabbaghian and Kate Hayashi | November 21, 2019
Social Media (On Its Own) Cannot Spur Successful Social Movements

Social Media (On Its Own) Cannot Spur Successful Social Movements

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Managing Editor | November 12, 2019
Irvine Council Votes on Cemetery

Irvine Council Votes on Cemetery

Julia Kim and Maya Sabbaghian | November 6, 2019
Some of the most popular novels in the United States have been banned or censored for their controversial ideas. A high number of the novels read in Portola High English courses have been censored or banned at some time.

Lifting the Censor Bar on Knowledge: Banned Books Week Comes to the Commons

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Managing Editor | September 30, 2019
The dance served as a way to welcome the new freshman class, who were the largest group of the participants at the event, according to Francis.

New Pack of Pups Shows School Spirit at Welcome Back Dance

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Managing Editor | September 11, 2019
Northwood and University highs hold their graduations at UCI, and while staff considered this location, it seems to present certain inconveniences, such as cost and the time of the graduation.

Selecting the Venue for Graduation Ceremony

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinion Editor | May 31, 2019
Eighteen Portola Pilot and Yearbook students attended the National Scholastic Press Association convention in Anaheim along with advisers Brianna Rapp and Crystal Le.

Portola Pilot Participates in National Journalism Convention

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinion Editor | May 14, 2019
Liz Moerman sports a shirt from her future alma mater. USC became Moerman’s dream school when her mom, a professor at USC, first introduced her to the campus.

Bulldog Turns Trojan

Maya Sabbaghian and Maryam Shama | May 3, 2019
Belal Ibrahim responds to a question about how he intends to bring more spirit to Portola’s Poseidon house as (from left) Tawni Sugita, Matthew Vo, and Jordan Amlen look on.

Election Convention Selects ASB Leaders for 2019-2020 School Year

Simrat Singh and Maya Sabbaghian | April 17, 2019
William (Rick) Singer was the main facilitator of the college scandal, helping parents and student cheat their way through different aspects of the college applications.

College Scandal Reveals Corruption

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinion Editor | March 25, 2019
History teacher Katie Wi competes for the Orion house in a game of Mario Kart on the Nintendo Switch. As she was blindfolded, Orion house vice president and sophomore Allyson Tabayoyong gave her instructions on where to go.

Riding into Spring at the Mario Kart Pep Rally

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinion Editor | March 18, 2019
Cramer and Waldner plan on using the grant money to purchase virtual reality equipment in order to support learning in various classes.

IPSF Awards $20,000 Mega Grant for Augmented Reality Initiative

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinion Editor | March 1, 2019
With fewer government workers, especially cybersecurity personnel, the digital safety of the United States is at risk of manipulation and attack.

Government Shutdown Causes Cybersecurity to be at Risk

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinions Editor | February 6, 2019
Reporters Without Borders is a non-profit and non-governmental organization, and has been publishing yearly reports on the status of journalists around the globe, such as this annual worldwide round-up, for many years.

Hostility Towards Journalists Increased in 2018 According to New Report

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinion Editor | January 25, 2019
Students from other high schools attended Irvine Talks, laughing with their friends in front of an "Irvine Talks" backdrop during the first part of the evening.

Returning to Irvine Talks with New Perspectives

Maya Sabbaghian and Nicholas Hung | January 7, 2019
Students can donate to Toys for Tots by bringing in new toys and placing them under one of the three Christmas trees in the Student Union.

‘Tis the Time of Toys for Tots

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinion Editor | December 10, 2018
Saturday Night Stroll Through Spectrum

Saturday Night Stroll Through Spectrum

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinion Editor | November 27, 2018
Based on past student feedback, there have been many changes made to the portfolio to accommodate everyone.

Changing Perspectives

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinion Editor | November 9, 2018
Junior Nicholas Sanchez won scariest costume.

Creeping Down the Runway of Horrors at the Halloween Costume Contest

Maya Sabbaghian and Maryam Shama | November 9, 2018
When Controversy Turns a Profit: Kaepernick’s Endorsement with Nike

When Controversy Turns a Profit: Kaepernick’s Endorsement with Nike

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinion Editor | September 18, 2018
“RBG” has garnered nearly 14 million dollars since its release in May and has inspired many viewers.

The Notorious “RBG”: A Review of the Documentary

Maya Sabbaghian, Opinion Editor | September 12, 2018
Three classes of students gathered for the Welcome Back Dance, setting the tone for future dances.

Celebrating the Start of School with Welcome Back Dance

Maya Sabbaghian | September 7, 2018

Farewell ‘till Fall!

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | June 8, 2018
Should Finals be Cumulative of the Full Year?

Should Finals be Cumulative of the Full Year?

Maya Sabbaghian and Dylan Vanek | June 5, 2018

Study On!

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | June 5, 2018
2017-18 Junior Year Textbooks

2017-18 Junior Year Textbooks

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-In-Chief | May 31, 2018
The Grades app was popular among students for its swift and easy-to-use design. Many students that still have the app downloaded may continue using the app instead of switching, although the app will no longer be supported.

Grades App Taken Off App Store

Maya Sabbaghian and Nathan Oh | May 30, 2018
[From left to right] Samantha Gardner, Desmond Stevens, Emily Sheridan and Megan Kirby are in the lobby of the theater greeting parents who watched the show and congratulating the student cast on May 3 while enjoying the company of each other.

[Photo] The Talented Teachers Behind the “Wizard of Oz”

Lauren Kettner and Farhad Taraporevala | May 14, 2018
Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tinman and the Lion are about to embark on their journey to the Land of Oz.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road: A Review of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ Musical

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | May 11, 2018
Moline played in a total of 82 games at the University of New Mexico, named the 2010 and 2011 Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year.

Soccer Coach Moline Scores Hall of Fame

John Xie and Maya Sabbaghian | May 4, 2018
Athlete of the Month: Alyssa Ing

Athlete of the Month: Alyssa Ing

Maya Sabbaghian, Co Editor-in-Chief | April 26, 2018
Sophomore Stephanie Tang helps an incoming freshman sign up for the National Organization of Women club. Students were able to watch performances from the visual and performing arts department and learn about the available activities on campus.

Bulldogs Welcome a New Pack of Pups at Eighth Grade Family Night

Helena Hu and Maya Sabbaghian | April 19, 2018
Screen Shot 2018-04-13 at 9.05.46 PM

[Photo] The Value of Sophomore Conferences

Jacob Kim, Marketing Manager | April 13, 2018
During the Science Fair, Aamina shows her project to the audience. She explains how her project breaks down the image of a brain tumor into parts that are easy to read.

Freshman Wins First Place at IUSD Science Fair

Chloe Ma and Maya Sabbaghian | April 11, 2018
Sophomore Samira Feili speaks with a University of California, Irvine student regarding science majors offered at the institution.

Students Prepare to Pursue Passions at College and Career Fair

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-In-Chief | April 10, 2018
Freshman Kelthie Truong holds a sign that says “#NeverAgain,” while freshman Kristen Ok keeps track of the 17 minutes as she reads off the names of those killed in the Florida shooting.

Students Protest in National School Walkout

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-In-Chief | March 21, 2018
The Election Convention will be placed into effect for the March election.

ASB Introduces New Voting System for Elections

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-In-Chief | March 13, 2018
Sophomores wrote lab reports on their Genius Project that includes information on how to perform each demonstration and the chemistry concepts behind the reactions

[Photo] Chemistry Students Recreate Practical Film Effects With Household Items

Lauren Kettner and Chloe Ma | March 5, 2018
Lead guitarist Yash Menon, rhythm guitarist Nicholas Hung, bass guitarist Brian Yip, and drummer and vocalist Derrick Peng of Cardboard Prison performed a medley of songs, playing several original compositions.

Cardboard Prison Performs in Battle of the Bands

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | March 1, 2018
Eight Portola Pilot staff members placed in their respective categories: (top row, left to right) Jordan Lee, Simrat Singh, Ki Joon Lee, Dylan Vanek, (bottom row) Ali Elmalky, Annie Qiao, Maya Sabbaghian and Ava Caleca.

Portola Pilot Journalists Win Awards at Orange County Write-Off Competition

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | February 23, 2018
The community around Stoneman Douglas High mourns for those who lost their lives in the shooting.

17 Killed in Florida High School Shooting

Maya Sabbaghian and Jacob Kim | February 22, 2018
The three desserts increase in level of complexity, with cupcakes being the most simple to make for its shorter steps and the heart cake being the most difficult to make due to the piping work.

One Recipe, Three Valentine’s Day Desserts (Part 2)

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | February 13, 2018
A batch of Raspberry Cupcakes can be given as a Valentine's Day present to friends, family, a partner or even yourself!

One Recipe, Three Valentine’s Day Desserts (Part 1)

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | February 13, 2018
"I Love Lucy" was first aired on CBS in 1951, with the most-watched episode being of the day Lucy gives birth to her son, Little Ricky. The episode had 44 million viewers, according to Wayne State University Press.

‘I Love Lucy’: A Timeless Classic

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | February 6, 2018
A map of the adjustments that will be implemented August 2019 affect the neighborhood of Stonegate.

Shifting the Boundaries

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-In-Chief | January 23, 2018
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[Photo] When Should Holiday Lights be Taken Down?

Jane Zou and Lauren Kettner | January 8, 2018
Hopper has been shooting goals on the soccer field since she was four years old.

Athlete of the Month: Karly Hopper

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | December 20, 2017
Chen works with the Scratch program to create games, such as a ball moving through a maze.

Students Scratch the Surface During Hour of Code

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | December 14, 2017
McMurray showcases her abilities while throwing the ball during practice.

Protecting the Pedigree: First Female Football Player

Ava Caleca and Maya Sabbaghian | December 12, 2017
Dress rehearsals were held in the days before the showings, which were from Nov. 16 to 18.

[Photo] Behind the Curtains of The Fall Play

Aaron Sha, Staff Writer | December 1, 2017
Freshman Samir Behera plays the role of John Proctor with freshman Kayla Espiritu as Abigail Williams.

[Photo] ‘I saw Sarah Good with the Devil!’

Jenny Zhang, Staff Writer | November 29, 2017
Peer tutor Lauren Hwang assists freshman Andre Quiroz with functions and other math topics during eighth period.

[Photo] Peer Tutoring: A Safe Place to Learn

John Xie, Staff Writer | December 11, 2017
Terry Walker talks about the district through statistics and their impact on students.

State of the District: Our Current Standing

Maya Sabbaghian, Co Editor-in-Chief | November 27, 2017
Don’t Forget the Turkey! Remembering to Celebrate Thanksgiving

Don’t Forget the Turkey! Remembering to Celebrate Thanksgiving

Maya Sabbaghian, Co Editor-in-Chief | November 14, 2017
Starbucks has a seasonal menu full of fall classics and a few new items but will soon be transitioning to its winter menu.

Spice up the Season with the Top 3 Fall-Themed Starbucks Drinks

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | November 8, 2017
On display in the Learning Commons, marigolds are known as the flower of the dead and are meant to use their powerful fragrance as a guide for spirits.

Dia de los Muertos: Honoring the Dead

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | November 6, 2017
Crowdis explains the results of a poll question regarding the increasing number of poison control calls due to the use of liquid nicotine and e-cigarettes.

Capes Not Vapes: Living Drug-Free

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | November 2, 2017
Sophomore Chris Choung lines up with other students on the field as teachers call role during the ShakeOut drill.

Duck and Cover! The Great California ShakeOut

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | October 25, 2017
Chocolate Chip Biscotti is the perfect autumn treat and it goes well with almost any drink.

Chocolate Chip Biscotti Recipe

Maya Sabbaghian, Co-Editor-in-Chief | October 23, 2017
Sugita, Kim, Chung and Tabayoyong sport their tacky-tourist-themed outfits on the first day of Spirit Week.

Get to Know your Freshmen Vice Presidents

Maya Sabbaghian | October 4, 2017
Principal John Pehrson speaks at the Portola High dedication ceremony along with many others.

A Dedication to Remember

Maya Sabbaghian and Stephanie Zhang | March 30, 2017
Students join together during intercultural week to play seven stones.

[Photo] Cultural Awareness Comes to Campus

Ana Komarlu and Aria Raidi | March 21, 2017
ASB president Antony Lu signs a social contract with his thumbprint dipped in orange paint, promising to never get in an abusive relationship.

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Maya Sabbaghian, Features Editor | March 14, 2017
After gaining popularity, "Their Eyes Were Watching God," published in 1937, was adapted into a movie in 2005.

Identity and Pear Tree Blossoms: A Review of ‘Their Eyes Were Watching God’

Maya Sabbaghian, Features Editor | February 28, 2017
Key Club holds a member meeting after passing out the Club's shirts.

[Photo] The Key to Community Service

Priscilla Baek, Co-Editor-in-Chief | December 9, 2016
Students gather around chess boards at lunch to play chess with their friends.

[Photo] Checkmate

Dylan Vanek, Opinions Editor | February 2, 2017
The World of Women

The World of Women

Maya Sabbaghian, Features Editor | November 28, 2016
Samira Feili, pink ribbon club president, explains to students through an interactive activity the club’s mission to fight breast cancer.

Clubs Kick into Action

Maya Sabbaghian and Tianxin Guo | November 10, 2016
Anthony Lu, Liz Moerman and Nandini Goyal feature their 60s attire for the first dress-up day, inspired by 60s fashion.

False Start for Spirit Week

Maya Sabbaghian, Jennifer Chiang, and Annie Qiao | September 29, 2016
Spirit Week is Coming to Campus

Spirit Week is Coming to Campus

Maya Sabbaghian | September 25, 2016
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Maya Sabbaghian