The granddaughter of the man instrumental in establishing the now-famous (and much recognized) Los Alamitos jazz program is now among 10 finalists competing in the American Idol singing competition.
Sophia Wackerman, who has since adopted the stage name Sophia James (honoring her brother James), was named on Sunday as one of the Top 10 finalists competing in the ABC network’s televised talent contest.
Earlier in the week, Sophia was recognized by the Los Alamitos Unified School Board at their regular meeting.
“I personally think she’s doing a phenomenal job,” said Megan Cutuli, Board President.
Supt. Andrew Pulver, suggesting another historic music success in the making for Los Alamitos, recognized Sophia during his Superintendent’s Report.
Pulver even presented a brief video to the board (and to those watching the meeting on Zoom) which highlighted her Idol journey, including portions of her performances thus far on the show.
In the video, Sophia listens as singer Katy Perry, one of the Idol judges, suggested changing her name to Sophia Star, honoring her late mother, Naomi Star. Star was once a backup singer for Belinda Carlisle.
Sophia’s dad was a drummer for Frank Zappa, James Taylor and other top rock groups during the heyday of rock and roll so she grew up around music.
“You can never be too proud of our Griffin graduates,” said Pulver. “We are elated and wish Sophia much luck on her journey,” he added.
While attending Los Al High School, Sophia was a member of the National Grand Champion Los Al Choir.
Sophia’s grandfather, Chuck Wackerman, said Pulver, has been a part of the Los Alamitos Unified Family for nearly 50 years.
The elder Wackerman taught elementary, junior high and high school band, as he directed orchestra and jazz bands in the Seal Beach and Los Alamitos school districts. For nine years, Sophia’s grandad directed the jazz combos for the Orange County High School for the Arts. At both the middle and high school levels, he has developed award winning jazz ensembles and programs, said Pulver.
Sophia, who graduated from Los Al High in 2018, is now attending UCLA and will continue her competitive journey on the show later this week.
“We are just really pleased to be able to celebrate her success as well,” said Supt. Pulver.
Los Al maintains a “Hall of Fame” of distinguished alumni that dates back to the 1970’s. For instance, it’s 1971 graduate Cathy Rigby (McCoy) became a celebrated Olympic gymnast. She is among many of its celebrated alumni have risen to fame and top levels of their professions.
