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THE FINAL COUNTDOWN
Class of 2022 bids Sierra High adieu
sierra GRAD
Valedictorian Julia Erdman performs “The Final Countdown” with 2022 classmates Terryn Ocampo and Aaron Sabado during the Sierra High graduation Friday at Daniel Teicheira Memorial Stadium.

Principal Steve Clark bade farewell to Sierra High’s class of 2022 on Friday along with a few members of the staff.

Among those leaving is Assistant Principal Anthony Chapman, who will take over as principal at Mossdale Elementary in Lathrop. “Mr. Timberwolf” has filled several different roles at Sierra, where he graduated in 1998. Clark also gave a nod to retirees Janet Lenards and Dara Unterholzner.

Clark even acknowledged a graduate who was not present at Daniel Teicheira Memorial Stadium, giving kudos to track and field athlete Jeontay Berry. Berry missed his graduation to compete in the California Interscholastic Federation State Championships in Clovis, and he advanced to today’s final round of the long jump.

“We’ll be the wind beneath your wings, so jump 23 (feet) tomorrow and win that thing,” Clark said.

Following Jane Lomboy’s signing of the national anthem, senior class president Corinne Stackpole opened the ceremony with her welcome speech. She is headed to UC Santa Barbara and majoring in psychology.

Julia Erdman, Terryn Ocampo and Aaron Sabado gave an instrumental performance of “The Final Countdown.” Senior Jasmine Valentine and junior Caleb Van Wetter performed an original song, “When I say Goodbye.”

The multi-talented Erdman is also class valedictorian, and she later shared her fondest moments at Sierra. Older brother Michael was also valedictorian two years ago. Julia is on her way to University of the Pacific where she will study biological sciences.

Salutatorian Alfred Manongsong gave his comedic salutatory address. He’s majoring in computer science at Merced.

Principal Clark also recognized foreign-exchange students Clara Catel (France), Leonie Hock (Germany), Alessia Manetti (Italy), Karin Sasaki (Japan) and Jessica Kulik (Germany).

Recognizing awardees for the California Scholarship Federation and National Honor Society were advisors Kay Vongphouthone and Les Wheeler.

Manteca Unified trustee Stephen Schluer was among the Manteca Unified board members present to award diplomas, giving him the opportunity to share a special embrace on stage with now-graduated daughter Lela. Fellow MUSD board members joining Schluer were Superintendent Dr. Clark Burke, Marie Freitas, Roger Goatcher and Victoria Brunn.