Our mission is to enable all students to become contributing members of the society, empowered with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to meet the challenges of a changing world, by providing the highest quality educational experience we can envision.

WE BELIEVE:

• In the dignity and value of every human being.

• All people can learn and thrive.

• Students are our highest priority.

• Excellence is worth the investment.

• Quality people are the key to excellence.

• Effective teachers are the most important component for successful learning.

• Successful education is the shared responsibility of students, educators, parents, and community.

• Critical thinking and creativity are essential in a rapidly changing world.

• Positive self-esteem promotes success.

• Parents are an important element in a student's education.

• Students deserve a safe, positive, nurturing environment.

• Educated people are essential to the success of a democratic society.

• All students are entitled the opportunity to reach their highest potential.

• Morale, satisfaction, and performance are enhanced when people work together.

Lastly, we developed an acronym IHS strongly emphasizes and carries out:

• Integrity: firm adherence to a code of moral values; honesty; incorruptibility.

• Honor Yourself & Others: a keen sense of ethical conduct toward one's self and to the whole community.

• Social Responsibility: acting with empathy and concern.

WORK HABITS

Attendance in classes and work completion are critical to student success. This includes on-task behavior in the classroom, timely completion of assignments, positive contributions during class discussions, and preparing for exams. These behaviors can be facilitated by asking questions and seeking assistance from parents/guardians, teachers, and tutors. Students who are engaged are students who learn.

INVOLVEMENT

The opportunities for student involvement at IHS are myriad and diverse. Students may become involved in our award-winning performing arts, visual arts, and career technical education programs. There is something for everyone at IHS. Students may serve as ASB or class officers, participate in athletics, or become members of our outstanding publications- the school newspaper (El Vaquero), yearbook (The Citadel), or iTV (Irvine Television).  Over 100 clubs exist on campus, and new clubs are started each year as student interests change and new leaders emerge. Many of these clubs engage in community service activities, offering opportunities for students to serve others.  Involvement in activities fosters the acquisition of group interaction skills (including how to be part of a team and how to work cooperatively), time management, organizational, and leadership skills. Above all, being part of something at school generates a sense of community and a commitment to learning, which leads to a richer, more rewarding high school experience.