Throughout the multi-year process, IUSD has worked with all necessary agencies and experts to vet and ensure the safety of the site.  In analyzing and determining the best location for Portola High School, IUSD's process, procedures and findings have been based on the scientific studies, tested principles and protocols of such agencies as the California Department of Education, the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), the California Department of Public Health, the Department of the Navy, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 

In accordance with the requirements for site approval from the California Department of Education (CDE), IUSD completed a Preliminary Environmental Assessment (PEA) Report.  The purpose of the PEA is to evaluate historical information for indications of past use, storage, disposal or release of hazardous wastes/substances at the site; establish the nature of hazardous wastes/substances that may be present in soil at the site, their concentration and general context; and estimate the potential threat to public health and/or the environment posed by hazardous constituents at the site.

In spring 2014, IUSD received approval from DTSC of the Preliminary Environmental Assessment Report.  The PEA was conducted, in accordance with a DTSC approved PEA Workplan, to evaluate potential impact from historic onsite and offsite activities.  DTSC determined that all chemicals evaluated in soils samples were either below background or risk-based levels.  The PEA Report concluded that no further assessment was needed on the site.  In addition, DTSC reviewed the PEA public comments and determined that revision of the PEA Report was not necessary.  Based on DTSC's review of the PEA Report and consideration of public comments, neither a release of hazardous material nor the presence of a naturally occurring hazardous material which would pose a threat to public health or the environment under unrestricted land use was indicated at the site.

In fall 2014, excavation of a storm drain, by Heritage Fields, adjacent to the Portola High School site revealed stained soil; a thin layer of the stained soil extended onto the Portola High School site.  DTSC was notified immediately and testing of the stained soil was conducted. Results of the stained soil indicated nonhazardous levels of hydrocarbons (diesel fuel). In addition, the stained soil samples included chemicals that were either below risk-based detection limits or far below levels of concern to human health.  Based on the analytical results, DTSC concurred with the recommendation that no further assessment or testing was required.

To date, IUSD has conducted more than 200 tests throughout the school site.  Based on the results, DTSC confirmed there is no threat to public health or the environment.  As part of DTSC's continued oversight, DTSC has now asked IUSD to collect additional samples to reaffirm the safety of the site.

IUSD staff recently met with DTSC representatives at the Portola High School site to develop a draft Workplan which will identify areas for new sampling and to establish a timeline.  DTSC reiterated its support for the project and indicated that the additional sampling is to validate previous approvals. IUSD has and will continue to fully comply with the DTSC's requirements, protocols and procedures, in addition to state and local laws.

The District will make every attempt to accommodate any attendee or participant at this meeting who needs special assistance, when notice is given to the Superintendent's Office 949.936.5000 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

Regular Board Meetings are broadcast live on channel 39.

The board meeting agenda and support materials are accessible from the District's web site (www.iusd.org/board/) prior to the close of business on the Friday preceding the meeting. Any written materials distributed to the Board after the 72 hour posting period will also be made available for public review at the time of distribution. Copies may also be obtained at the District Administration Center or at the meeting.

* Opportunities for public input occur at the beginning of each agenda item.  Persons wishing to address the Board should complete a blue request form, available on the information table, and submit it to the Board Secretary.  Each topic or item is limited to 30 minutes; each speaker is limited to 3 minutes.