Every year since its inception 42 years ago (1974), Nazareth students (a total of over 7,700!) have participated in the WALK, a physical manifestation of school spirit! Over time, this tradition has evolved, but the premise remains the same—explore the beautiful neighborhood of La Grange Park while celebrating school spirit and the outdoors. The purpose of the WALK is to raise money to cover day-to-day expenses including clubs and athletics.

This year, and for the past 11 or so years, the WALK has been a pleasant distance of three miles. It takes place immediately after the electric Pep Rally, which aims to fire up the whole school in anticipation for Homecoming with celebratory dances, videos, and sometimes very happy camels. This year, two exciting Bubble Soccer matches took center stage instead.

However, it didn’t always used to be this way. The WALK used to be quite a long journey at around 12 miles, with the four checkpoint route passing through La Grange, La Grange Park, and Brookfield! It even had its own WALK pep rally and lasted the whole day. For convenience, the WALK was moved to Homecoming weekend, to create one fun-packed weekend.

Alumna, former Senior Editor of the Chicago Tribune, and current Media Specialist Mrs. Claxton recounts WALK Day memories saying, “It was probably 9 miles. I did not ditch it.”

Ms. Paliatka, alumna and current English teacher, comments on the new, shorter distance.

“It is better that it’s shorter because it allows us to have something like the Naz Fest. I like that we walk through La Grange Park, which is our own community.”

Each year, on the Thursday before the WALK, students and faculty receive a t-shirt with a catchy slogan to wear on the day of the WALK. After the WALK, Student Council throws a very exciting Naz Fest—an event that features Senior Board’s traditional student-faculty softball game, tons of food, and music. This year celebrates the Naz Fest’s 4th Birthday.  

On the financial side, the WALK raises money that benefits Nazareth students and faculty/staff members in areas such as curriculum, technology, student leadership opportunities, financial aid, fine arts, and athletics. This year, the goal is $225 per person, which will contribute to the over $3.7 million the WALK has raised in its lifetime.

Even though the WALK has changed over the years, as Ms. Paliatka wisely puts it, “What remains constant is that it’s still about building spirit and building community.”

Editor’s Note: Thank you to Ms. Cook, Mrs. Claxton, and Ms. Paliatka who have helped made this article possible.