About 400 IUSD middle schoolers recently got a chance to test-drive potential careers in physics, robotics, aerospace, health and other specialized fields during a long-running science conference at UCI.

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.

A pair of Irvine schools made headlines recently on the Orange County Register’s website. For starters, Register reporter Samantha Schaefer previewed Northwood High School's third annual Timberwolf 5K Run/Walk, which will raise money for Northwood's athletics program and Families Forward.

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.

Students looking for an edge on their science projects will be able to consult with some pretty sharp experts this week, as IUSD is once again sponsoring “Ask-A-Scientist Night” at Rancho San Joaquin Middle School. The event will be held from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 17.