Kaitlynn Gov experienced an awkward moment at Thursday’s commencement exercises at Weston Ranch High.
The salutatorian for the Class of 2016 had her graduation cap blow off her head from a strong gust on her way to the dais.
She played it off, calling it a “failed” but timely moment.
For failing is a part of the process in growing and achieving in life, according to Gov.
“So get ready to fail, fail, fail. But be ready to get up time after time again,” she said to graduating group of 262.
This special event was a celebration of achievement, first-year principal Francine Baird said.
It wasn’t just families who made this day possible but rather the entire community of southwest Stockton, she noted.
Graduation was also about the moment.
“We’re living our future memories,” said valedictorian April Vang.
What’s next?
“We will take different and unique paths in our lives,” said Vang, who also pointed out to her classmates the importance of remembering their origins.
She and Gov were recognized as the top academic students at the school. They were joined by the likes of Fernando Aguila, Semhale Danfa, Mariz Dano, Arcel Dimaano, Jillian Foronda, Alex Gonzalez, Lezly Gonzalez, Pavandeep Janday, Jose Lupian Deltoro, Lauren Macatangay, Alexandra Navarro, Lizbeth Ortiz, Sabrina Rahgozar, Karla Ramos, Joana Ramirez Vazquez, Aveneet Rekhi, Samantha Sanchez, Manvir Sangha, Charles Udeze, and Aileen Velasquez.
Each sported  California Scholarship Federation gold cords.
Senior class President Sabrina Martinez, in addition, shared her fond memories.
She recalled the Friday night football games over the past four years on this very venue.
Martinez looked back at the “intense” basketball games and even the halftime routines by the cheerleaders.
“These memories are who we are,” she said.

To contact reporter Vince Rembulat, e-mail vrembulat@mantecabulletin.com.