WESTON RANCH – School officials expressed a sigh of relief.

Just prior to Friday’s big event for the Class of 2012, they closely monitored the wet weather and the possible threat of lightning.

Thankfully, the seventh annual commencement exercise at Weston Ranch High was greeted by clear, cool and breezy conditions.

Over 240 students received their diplomas before family, friends, teachers and staff inside the jam-packed stadium. They made their entrance to the traditional processional tune of “Pomp and Circumstance” as performed by the WRHS band under the direction of Joe Barron.

Leading the way was valedictorian Serbinder Singh, who proclaimed Weston Ranch as “the best high school ever.”

He added, “Of course, it’s the only high school I’ve ever attended.”

Graduation was a culmination of hard work, dedication, and determination, according to salutatorian Jacob Malaluan.

It’s also the last time that many of the classmates will be together.

“We’re all going our separate ways,” said UC Irvine-bound Malaluan. “Never forget where you came from.”

Senior class president Tiffany Martinez and vice president Venesa Lemos reflected back on their years at Weston Ranch High.

“No doubt, the high school years flew by fast,” they noted. “We’ve met best friends for life.

“Some drifted apart from their childhood friends. Some have even had romances.”

The graduation ceremony kicked off with Monica Castillo performing “The Star Spangled Banner” and ASB vice president Maegan Rivera leading in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Teacher Stayce Baptista, who is the school’s California Scholarship Federation advisor, recognized the 23 students who earned CSF lifetime membership.

Principal Jose Fergoso, who welcomed those in attendance – included were Manteca Unified school board members Rex Holiday and Manuel Medeiros, and Clara Schmiedt, MUSD director of secondary education – also addressed the graduates.

“Today, you take next step to your next journey in life,” he said.

Schmiedt was principal at WRHS when the classmates were still new to the school. It seemed appropriate that she had the honor of accepting the Class of 2012 for certification.