Paly Principal Resigns, Cites Health Reasons

In a late, Monday night email to the families of students at Palo Alto High School, Principal Phil Winston announced his resignation.

"As many of you are aware, I recently had a life-threatening medical illness," Winston said in his letter. "Something of this nature would cause anyone to reflect on what is important to them, and this event caused me to seriously re-evaluate 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."

Winston requested to be reassigned to a classroom position within the Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD). The 36-year-old from Milpitas previous served as assistant principal and special education teacher at Gunn High School.

According to a Tuesday statement issued by PAUSD Superintendent Kevin Skelly—who thanked Winston for his work—retired former Principal Marilyn Cook will serve as interim principal.

"She will be helping to guide the work of administrative team and other site staff during this next month or so," Skelly said. "You can be sure that we will be ready when school resumes in August."

Between now and the beginning of the school year, the district will focus on filling the vacancy. It has tasked Scott Bowers, assistant superintendent for personnel, to lead the effort.

Skelly explained that the process will be inclusive and "involve representatives from various stakeholders in the interview and selection process."

"We hope to have a new principal in place a few weeks before school starts," he said.