Our friends in the science department have asked us to pass along word of an opportunity for science-minded students in grades one through six.

The Irvine Company on Tuesday presented IUSD with the seventh installment of its pledge of more than $21 million over 10 years for enriched curriculum in art, science and music, marking the occasion with a reception, as well as student music performances and science demonstrations.

We haven’t talked much on the NewsFlash about the new Common Core State Standards, but they represent a major shift in education, and they’re the subject of an upcoming presentation from the Orange County Department of Education that will feature IUSD Superintendent Terry Walker as a panelist. Dr.

IUSD’s Stonegate Elementary School has been nominated for a prestigious National Blue Ribbon award, state officials announced Thursday.

Back in July, IUSD approved the second phase of an ambitious project that’s bringing energy-generating solar panels to a number of additional schools and district sites.

Just a reminder: IUSD schools will be closed all next week for the Thanksgiving holiday.

BY SUPERINTENDENT TERRY L. WALKER This month’s election has finally brought some clarity to IUSD’s budget outlook, and perhaps given rise to a little optimism.