For over 16 years, Assistant Principal Jerry Berkson has overseen almost every renovation and construction project on Palo Alto High School’s campus.

Under Berkson’s supervision, the Media Arts Center, 800 building, the Performing Arts Center and the 1700 building (and the science building extension) all rose from the ground up.

Additionally, the Library, Haymarket Theater, 200, 300, 400, 700 buildings, Viking Stadium, lacrosse field, main parking lot, and baseball field all underwent significant renovations.

Now, the crown jewel of the renewed Paly campus — the renovation of Paly’s landmark Tower Building — is nearing its completion. It seemed an appropriate time to recognize someone who has been integral to campus construction.

While Berkson didn’t do any sawing or bricklaying, we appreciate the myriad odd jobs he took care of, such as communicating with contractors.

Berkson has had a hand in creating the Paly campus as we know it today, and for that, we thank him.