Palo Alto High School principal Phil Winston sent out an e-mail last night to students and families announcing and explaining the reasons for his resignation as principal beginning the 2013-2014 school year. The message is as follows:

Dear Paly Community,

I am writing this letter to let you know that I have resigned from the position of Principal at Palo Alto High School, and have requested to be reassigned to a classroom position within PAUSD.

As many of you are aware, I recently had a life-threatening medical illness. Something of this nature would cause anyone to reflect on what is important to them, and this event caused me to seriously reevaluate my priorities, health, and personal and professional goals. At this stage in my life, spending time with my family, protecting my physical health and having a better work life balance are my top priorities.

I am confident the school will continue to excel because of the staff, students, the community support, and the administrative team. I am committed to working with the District to ensure minimal disruption and will assist the new Paly principal in any way that I can to make the transition as seamless as possible. I have very much enjoyed my time as an administrator in PAUSD for the last 7 years, and will always value these years professionally and personally.
I appreciate your support and understanding of this decision. Please know that this decision was not made lightly and was the product of a careful and thorough thought process over the past many months.
I look forward to continuing to work together in my new role to ensure all students succeed.

Sincerely,
Phil Winston