Port of Los Angeles High School

09/03/2026

Studying Abroad in Peru! ✈️ 📸

This summer, Malik Giron (POLAHS ‘26) embarked on a full-tuition scholarship photography expedition in Peru. During the 22-day high school program in the Sacred Valley, Malik immersed himself in Peruvian culture while taking remarkable photos and working alongside local community members on construction and farming projects. In addition to exploring local markets, hiking nearby peaks, and connecting with local life, Malik journeyed through the heart of the Inca Empire to capture iconic archaeological sites including Machu Picchu.

“This trip was truly remarkable and I am so grateful to have been given this opportunity. The community, gastronomy, and culture in Peru have left an everlasting mark on me that I will cherish and carry with me forever. The communities I was in were extremely welcoming and I felt as though I had been welcomed into a second home. Through the service projects I was able to give back to a place that gives so much and receives so little, and being able to share a token of my appreciation through the service was definitely rewarding. That said, if I could go back I would 100% do it all over again.”

09/01/2026

Thanks to an incredible school donor, POLAHS’s very own Lucas Kusumi (’26) spent 14 days immersed in college-level astrophysics at the Mt. Wilson SOAR program! From daily lectures to hands-on astronomical research, Lucas mastered spectroscopy, photometry, and advanced imaging techniques. 🪐

Check out what Lucas had to say about his experience:

“During morning observations, we used the CCD sensor on the Snow Solar Telescope and performed a ‘drift scan’—letting the sun drift across the field of view to measure changes in brightness! Our classes covered everything from data analysis with Autostar IP to wavelength calibration for spectroscopy. The highlight? Spending a four-hour night block inside the historic 100-inch telescope, observing celestial objects, and some of us even got to pilot the telescope!” 🔭🌌

Great job, Lucas!!
Mount Wilson Observatory

08/31/2026

POLAHS students Carmen Martinez and EllaRose Bednorz (’27) spent time this summer diving into hands-on forensic science through an Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University program, thanks to the support of a full-tuition scholarship from a generous donor.

Their studies included arson investigation, DNA analysis, facial reconstruction, and bloodstain pattern analysis, giving them practical experience in real-world investigative scenarios.

“We started with breakfast before meeting our professors and diving into forensic labs like hair, fiber, and latent print analysis. Later on, we enjoyed STEM activities before returning to the dorms for karaoke and board games.” - Carmen Martinez

“We excavated a mock grave site at the crash lab, searching for disturbed earth to find key evidence. After hours of careful digging, we recovered bones, stained clothing, sunglasses, and shell casings to help close our case!” - EllaRose Bednorz

08/28/2026

08/27/2026

5 Days of Back to School GIVEAWAYS!! 🐾

To enter Day 4: *Like this post and tag a friend in the comments.*

Anyone up for a burger at the beach? Head down with your new Sand Cloud®️ towel and a #2 from In-N-Out Burger®! You’ll win a one-of-a-kind burger mug, bracelet, shirts, socks, gift cards and more from the ultimate In N Out gift box! 🍔🍟

Dinner is included from San Pedro’s favorite Italian restaurant J.Trani's Ristorante, plus gift cards from Hojas Tea House & Cafe, alum business Café Mona 💕, and delicious ice cream from Handels Homemade Ice Cream San Pedro! Total prize is valued at over $600. Open to ALL.

08/26/2026

5 Days of Back to School GIVEAWAYS!! 🐾

To enter Day 3: *Like this post and tag a friend in the comments.* You’ll win the very best of downtown San Pedro, including:

Gift card and tote from Saigon Ơi Café – Vietnamese Food San Pedro, limited edition collab SP Night Market t-shirt from badfishclothing, YETI tumbler, Happy Moon Supply gift card, and a beautiful print from a student photographer PIXELS GALLERY POLAHS! This awesome gift will arrive in a custom insulated tote with a POLAHS jacket. Total prize is valued at over $600. Open to ALL.

Winner will be announced on Friday, September 4th at 5pm.

08/25/2026

Club Rush Fun!! Students can join a variety of clubs for 2026-27! 🎤 🎶 🐟 🥗 📺 ⛰️ 🎾 📖 🎭

Florets
POLAHS Pre-Law
Debate
Music
Movie Appreciation
Culinary
Competitive Gaming & eSports
Martial Arts
Cancer Support Community LA
NAMI
Model UN
PoLGBTQIAhs
POLAHS in Action
Key Club
Hiking
Kickboxing Fundamentals
Tennis
Christian Bible Study
LA Metro Youth Council
Book club
Chronicle club
Black Student Union
Hispanic Heritage
Asian American Pacific Islander
Women’s Empowerment
Drama
Marvel
Marine Bio

08/25/2026

5 Days of Back to School GIVEAWAYS!! 🐾

To enter Day 2: *Like this post and tag a friend in the comments.* You’ll win a new insulated tote and POLAHS jacket! Ride in style with a custom car detail from alum business Detailer Located In Harbor Area and family tickets to the incredible Petersen Automotive Museum! 🚘 Gift cards include Pirozzi’s Italian Deli, Ike’s Sandwiches | Meat, Vegan & Vegetarian, and Grillo's Pickles! Total prize is valued at over $600. Open to ALL.

Winner will be announced on Friday, September 4th at 5pm.

08/24/2026

5 Days of Back to School GIVEAWAYS!! 🐾

To enter Day 1: *Like this post and tag a friend in the comments.* You’ll win a new insulated tote and POLAHS sweatshirt! Pamper yourself or a friend with the ultimate beauty box from DEZI SKIN and a gel mani/pedi from The Nail Insider!! Gift cards include Grannys Donuts of San Pedro, Gaetano's Restaurant, Ike’s Sandwiches | Meat, Vegan & Vegetarian, and Grillo's Pickles, plus our favorite bombas socks! Total prize is valued at over $600. Open to ALL.
Winner will be announced on Monday, August 31st at 5pm.