Historically, seniors have used their last week at Palo Alto High School to continue the “tradition” of streaking. This year was no different, except that the number of students who graced the campus in their birthday suits was far more than numbers from any year in recent memory.
The large number of streakers, with estimates varying anywhere from 51 to 56, was due to a “perfect storm” of circumstances, according to campus supervisor Mary Puorro.
First and foremost, the lack of administrators offered students an opportunity to streak and possibly get off without consequences.
“We are low on administrators this year due to Mr. Berkson’s illness and the fact that Todd Feinberg and Jacqueline McEvoy are leaving,” Puorro said.
One streaker, who prefers to remain anonymous, echoed that sentiment. The streaker added that regardless of the level of administrative response, there were a number of people who were definitive in their plans to streak.
“I think that a lot of people were going to streak [regardless of the consequences], but even more did because the administration just didn’t seem to care that much,” the streaker said. “Maybe because they’re missing [Jerry Berkson].”
Unfortunately for future streakers, the number of naked students this year is not a sign of a change in administrative policy, but rather a reflection of the unusual circumstances, according to Puorro.
Since streaking is a tradition at Paly and not at neighboring Gunn High School, incoming Principal Phil Winston does not have a record of his stance on the issue. Ultimately it will be up to him and the new administrative team to determine exactly what the policy towards streakers will be in future years.