Debbie Mitzman has been at Sierra High since its opening in 1994.
In those past 21 years, she’s taught English classes – namely, Advanced Placement, English Honors and Reading Proficiency – not to mention those learning English as their second language.
Mitzman also taught at Lathrop Elementary, New Haven, and Stella Brockman. All told, she tallied 40 years with the Manteca Unified School District.
A Beatles fan, she finally earned her “Ticket to Ride,” retiring at the end of the school year.
Mitzman will be missed.
“Over the past 40 years, Mrs. Mitzman has educated and inspired thousands of students and staff members,” said the letter from the office of Principal Steve Clark. “Her enthusiasm and demand for excellence in the classroom has been remarkable and unwavering.
“Her connection, love, and passion for music – and the Beatles – will undoubtedly accompany her through her retirement years, which is fitting considering that she has connected so many to a good book or favorite author and to develop a love for reading.”
Mitzman is a 1975 graduate of University of the Pacific, where she earned a degree in Liberal Studies and multiple subject credential.
 She taught second to eighth grades at three MUSD elementary school sites.
In 1978, Mitzman attained a Single Subject Credential in English. It was that year she was named Manteca Educators’ Association Teacher of the Year. She was recognized as a San Joaquin County A+ Teacher in 2008.
In addition, Mitzman was honored by the San Joaquin County Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Commission as the Outstanding Youth Service Educational Professional. She has been a presenter for two years at the California Peer Resource State Conference.
At Sierra, Mitzman helped bring the Yellow Ribbon Program for Suicide Prevention and Awareness to campus – via SHS Peer Resource – and was the co-chair for years for the English Department.
The school sent her this message: “So, Mrs. Mitzman, may your retirement bring you joy and happiness knowing that you made a difference in the lives of many – and may you have ‘Strawberry Fields Forever.’”