‘Our life is one open book’

As per tradition, Tracy Area High School Principal Kathy Vondracek leads this year’s senior class on their final walk through the halls of the high school, en route to the gymnasium for commencement exercises. The walk was Vondracek’s final one as principal, as she has retired. Please see Page 2 for images from Sunday. Photos / Per Peterson

By Per Peterson

The Tracy Area High School Class of 2022 closed the latest chapter in their lives at Sunday’s 129th TAHS Commencement.

Ian Her gave the welcome address, thanking everyone who has supported this year’s class.

“All of you have helped immensely and have led each and every one of us students here today to share this moment with you,” Her said. “You were the light in the darkness, the hope in Pandora’s box, and the helping hand when we needed someone. You have forever etched your guidance and wisdom into all of us. Seniors, today is our day, but it is also everyone else’s who has helped us on this path.”

The Class of 2022 included 68 students. The valedictorian is Annaka Hook, and the salutatorian is Lauren Zick.

This year’s tassel turner was paraprofessional Mary Sweetman.

Caitlyn Devereaux presented the traditional “past” speech and recalled the class’ sophomore year when they were sent home to distance learn because of the pandemic.

“Individually, we have all faced hardships, but together we’ve faced and overcame an entire world pandemic,” she said. Right now in our lives, we’re moving on to some of the biggest things life has in store for us.”

See this week’s Headlight Herald for more on this article.