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PCS Newsletter September 16, 2022

PCS Newsletter Dear PCS Families, Well PCS, we made it through a record heat wave and Tuesday’s magnitude 4.4 earthquake that caused an impromptu break during this week’s School Board meeting. As I watch and read about leaders around the world saying goodbye to Queen Elizabeth II , who spent 70 years on the throne as the longest-serving monarch in British history, I find myself pausing and reflecting on the one constant we can all rely upon: change. As summer turns to fall, I hope that your child is energized and excited to be back in school. If your life is anything like mine, I have been feeling a bit like a taxi driver, shuttling one of my five children around town to and from various events. During these moments, I often mindlessly ask, “How was your day?” Typically, I am met with a one-word response, such as “Fine.” After a bit of digging, I found an article I read years ago that I thought I’d share with you all from the HuffPost, entitled Six Questions to Ask Your Kids After School . If you haven’t done so recently, I want to recommend that you take a moment to ask your child some of the questions I’ve listed below from that article and from elsewhere, such as verywellfamily.com . See where it leads you: What was something that made you laugh today? What problem did you solve today? What were the top three things about your day so far? What was something you wish you could have changed about today? How did you help someone today? How did someone help you today? What did you do during recess today? / What did you do during your break today? If you got to be the teacher tomorrow, what would you do? May these questions prompt you to not only listen, but to be present and engaged in meaningful conversation with your children. These moments are worth treasuring - time goes by so quickly. In partnership, Matthew Harris Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH: SEPTEMBER 15th - OCTOBER 15TH Celebrate Hispanic Latinx Heritage Month with the Sonoma County Library . We hope you’ll enjoy the many offerings in the community this month that exemplify diversity, community, kindness, and connection. PCS IN THE NEWS Did you miss these articles in the Argus Courier? We’ve got you covered! New assistant principal chosen for Petaluma High Newt Brigade stands by as winter approaches JOIN OUR SPECIAL EDUCATION TEAM TODAY! WE NEED YOU! Come join our Special Education Team! Specifically, we are looking to recruit and hire speech pathologists, special education teachers and special education instructional assistants. We hope you’ll look through our list of open positions and share them with any friends who might be just the right fit for our dynamic team. STUDENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT For the Love of Comics - All Art and Drawing Lovers Welcome! Back by popular demand, Gio Benedetti will be offering after school enrichment classes once again focusing on comics, manga, and cartooning styles of art, writing, and storytelling. Gio is a local comic creator, illustrator and educator. Art classes are open to all PCS students in grades 4 - 8, with all students converging on one of 5 school sites, a different site each day. 4th - 6th-grade classes will be offered at McDowell, McKinley, and Valley Vista Elementary Schools. 7th - 8th-grade classes will be offered at both Kenilworth and Petaluma Junior High Schools. All experience levels are welcome and all supplies are provided. The six-week class session is scheduled for: October 3 - November 10 from either 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM or 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM, with the exception of a Wednesday afternoon class at Valley Vista from 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM to take advantage of the early dismissal. There is a suggested donation of $40 per student so we can continue to run this great program, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. To register, please complete the after school enrichment registration form . Calling All Student Artists! The City of Petaluma's Climate Ready campaign and the Petaluma Arts Center (PAC) are seeking student artists and/or artist teams to create artwork for up to 6 existing bus shelters throughout the city. This project will adapt bus shelters into canvases highlighting art that showcases the hope of what communities and cities could be like in a world where people live harmoniously with the environment. In order for submitted artwork to be selected and featured, the piece must be climate-related or themed after the Climate Ready Campaign’s focus on active transportation (active transportation includes cycling, public transit, skateboarding, etc.). No professional artist experience is required for this project. This competition is open to artists from all Petaluma high schools and middle schools. Each artist or team of artists will be paid $800 for their work on this project, thanks to a grant offered by the Petaluma Public Art Advisory Committee, and a materials reimbursement not to exceed $500 with the submission of a scope of work detailing the use of materials and receipts for materials. Petaluma Transit will be funding all materials for the bus shelter. All high school and middle school students in Petaluma are encouraged to submit their work. Applications are due by Friday, October 14, 2022, by 5 PM. Applicants must provide a sketch or drawing of their proposed city bus shelter art and complete this Google Form: Bus Shelter Art Application . AERIES DATA CONFIRMATION 85% of all PCS families have completed Aeries Data Confirmation. Thank you SO much! Please be reminded that in the event of an emergency, or if your child’s school needs to contact you, we will refer to the contact information in Aeries. We want to ensure all PCS families are receiving important school and District news. The Aeries Parent Portal is always available for parents/guardians to update emergency contacts and other relevant information. WELLNESS CORNER We would like to give our District Guidance Coordinators and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) a huge shoutout for their amazing efforts to constantly care for our students. As they lead the way in supporting the mental health of our community, let’s continue to raise suicide prevention awareness #BeThere and #Bethe1 by helping a friend, loved one, or co-worker. Visit the CDC #BeThere website to learn more about suicide facts, warning signs, and available supports. Triangulum with Sarah Ferraro Cunningham, PsyD September 21, 2022 at 5:30 PM PCS students, families, adult allies, and community members are invited to explore cutting-edge research on tobacco, cannabis, and vaping next Wednesday, September 21st. From 5:30 - 6:00 PM, community-based organizations, such as Petaluma People Services and Narcotics Anonymous for Schools will have resources available for our families. Spanish translation will be provided. Location: Casa Grande High School Multi-Purpose Room from 5:30 - 7:00 PM Parent Connect and Support Circle for Parents and Caregivers - October 19th Join us for a fun, connective, and deeply supportive experience at our Parent Connect and Support Circle . This event will be a safe place to release unexpressed emotions, obtain resources, and feel the support of the shared journey of parenting with other parents. Parents and caregivers, reserve your spot today! Spanish translation will be provided. Location and details : Casa Grande High School Multi-Purpose Room on October 19th at 6:00 PM Child Parent Institute: FREE Parenting Classes This month, Child Parent Institute (CPI) is offering free parenting classes. Their offerings and class schedules are as follows: Positive Parenting All Ages , September 19 at 5:00 PM Transition to Co-Parenting , September 20 at 5:30 PM Parenting Traps to Avoid , September 20 & 21 at 7:00 PM Criando Niños , septiembre 2 a las 7:00 PM Please note: This is not a school or district event. As such, Petaluma City Schools District does not sponsor, staff, supervise, support, or endorse the information, activities, or events posted. ARTS, MUSIC, AND INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS DISCRETIONARY BLOCK GRANT PCS is excited to receive funding that supports visual and performing arts. In anticipation of receiving state funds known as the Arts, Music, and Instructional Materials Discretionary Block Grant, we are seeking the community’s involvement to advise and support our visual and performing arts programs. Next month, we will form a committee composed of families, teachers, staff, secondary students and community members to advise on potential programs that the grant will help directly fund. If you are interested in joining this committee, please complete the interest form . CalKIDS - THE FIRST STEP TOWARD COLLEGE What is CalKIDS? CalKIDS is a California state program that helps children save for college or career training after high school. Children born in California starting on July 1, 2022, and eligible low-income public school students are awarded a CalKIDS college savings account with an initial deposit. Enrollment is automatic and families are not required to contribute. CalKIDS is administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board , an instrumentality of the State of California, chaired by the State Treasurer. Why was CalKIDS created? CalKIDS was created by the State to help provide greater access to higher education to all California children. Research shows that children with higher education savings accounts are more likely to go to college and graduate than children without any savings. CalKIDS is a program that can provide parents/caregivers with a starting point to save for their children’s education so they can have a better future. To learn more, visit CalKIDS.org or the Frequently Asked Questions page . SONOMA COUNTY GUARANTEED BASIC INCOME PILOT PROGRAM First 5 Sonoma County is honored to lead Sonoma County’s Guaranteed Basic Income Pilot program. This program is funded by the County of Sonoma, City of Healdsburg, City of Petaluma, and City of Santa Rosa American Rescue Plan Act dollars and private investments from Corazón Healdsburg and operated in partnership with community organizations around the county. The pilot program aims to alleviate financial stressors felt by pregnant and parenting families with young children in Sonoma County, particularly those low-income and BIPOC families who were already vulnerable or marginalized prior to the pandemic. Research from other pilots around the country have shown increases in financial stability and full-time employment and reduction of anxiety and depression. With this investment in households with pregnant individuals and children under six, together we can help ensure that Sonoma County children are learning and growing in stable environments. The Pathway to Income Equity program will award 305 randomly selected qualifying Sonoma County residents $500 a month for 2 years. This cash assistance is unrestricted COVID Disaster Relief and it is not taxable income. Applications are being accepted from September 1, 2022 through October 31, 2022. Apply at pathwaysonoma.org/apply FOLLOW PETALUMA CITY SCHOOLS ON SOCIAL MEDIA Don’t miss out on the magical moments of our students and schools that we share on our social media channels! Each and every day, we’ll be sharing stories of PCS on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. We’re here! Be here with us! Follow Petaluma City Schools on social media.

Friday, Sep 16 2022
PCS Newsletter September 2, 2022

PCS Newsletter Dear PCS Families, I hope that everyone is having a smooth transition into the new school year. During the course of the first three weeks of school, I’ve been fortunate to walk through each of our school sites. In doing so, I’ve felt encouraged that students seem to be moving in the right direction both academically and socially-emotionally, and are progressing along the path to becoming college and career ready. Thank you to our teachers and staff for all their hard work in getting us to this point. This year, one of my goals is to bring together a Superintendent’s Lay Advisory Committee (SLAC), designed to facilitate communication directly between the superintendent and the parents and guardians of our student body. For 2022-23, I’d like to focus on our District Goal of ensuring that all student scholars have rich academic options that meet their unique needs. In particular, I’d like to explore the transition from junior high school to high school and come up with some ideas about how our District can increase the options to meet the needs of students moving into high school. Families of 6th - 8th graders who are interested in participating in SLAC should complete this form no later than September 9th. Ideally, I’d like to partner with a balanced group of families from various schools. Those who are invited to participate will be notified by September 13th. The meetings will be held once a month, primarily on Tuesdays (9/20, 10/18, 11/29, 12/08, and 01/24) from 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM. The first meeting will be in-person at the District Office with English-Spanish interpretation. I hope that you all get to take a moment this Labor Day weekend to rest and recharge with loved ones. In partnership, Matthew Harris Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools NO SCHOOL: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5TH PCS IN THE NEWS Did you miss these articles in the Press Democrat and Argus Courier? We’ve got you covered! Penngrove Goes Wild with New Roadside Mural Student-run United Anglers of Casa Grande gets permit to help dwindling trout population in Petaluma STUDENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT From Jog-a-thons, to international visitors, to celebrations, special meetings, and dual immersion learning, our PCS students and families are engaged! JOIN THE PCS TEAM AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE Here at Petaluma City Schools, we continue to recruit and hire new team members who will best serve our students. We hope you’ll help spread the word that we need our community’s help to be fully staffed for the 2022-23 school year. We have multiple openings in a variety of jobs throughout our District, including both full-time and part-time opportunities. Linked here is a list of our Open Positions . Check out this week's highlighted jobs below: Librarian - Petaluma Junior High School School Nurse Senior School Secretary - McDowell Elementary School WELLNESS CORNER Save the date: The Triangulum with Sarah Ferrero Cunningham, PsyD - September, 21, 2022 PCS students, families, adult allies, and community members are invited to explore cutting-edge research on tobacco, cannabis, and vaping. Using these substances impacts the physical, mental, and overall wellness of our youth. On Wednesday, September 21, community-based organizations, such as Petaluma People Services and Narcotics Anonymous for Schools will have resources available for our families from 5:30 P.M. - 7:00 P.M. Location: Casa Grande High School Multi-Purpose Room National Suicide Prevention Lifeline The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers trained crisis counselors to anyone who dials 988. If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty with mental health, substance abuse, or suicide, there are resources to support you. The State of California Requires All Students to Have 10 Immunizations. Are Your Student's Immunizations Up To Date? Please take a moment to review your student’s immunization status in the Aeries Parent Portal to ensure that all immunizations are up to date. Submit any updated immunization records to your school site as a soon as possible. Log into your Parent Portal Account Select appropriate students (if you have more than one student in the District) Select medical Select immunizations If you need help completing your child’s required immunizations, visit the Department of Public Health’s website for a list of community clinics in Sonoma County . Care Solace - What an Incredible Resource! PCS is committed to the health and well-being of our students, staff, and families to create a safe and healthy learning environment. In support of our ongoing commitment, we have partnered with Care Solace to provide an additional layer of care for our community. Care Solace helps individuals find both mental health care providers and substance use treatment centers. Their Care Companion team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year to quickly connect you to carefully verified providers in our community. Care Solace is available now for you and anyone in your household at no cost ! Students, staff, and families (including all household members) may access Care Solace services in two ways: 1. Call (888) 515-0595 24/7/365. Support is available in 200+ languages. A dedicated Care Companion will help you every step of the way to research options, secure appointments, and follow up to make sure the provider is a good fit. 2. Search anonymously for a care provider . Use the link below to answer a few questions and be matched with an extensive list of providers at https://www.caresolace.com/site/petk12 COVID-19 TESTING UPDATES Please note that beginning September 1, 2022 , Petaluma City Schools will continue to provide professionally-administered rapid antigen tests and free over-the-counter antigen tests. However, Petaluma City Schools will no longer provide PCR tests as a testing option . For questions please call our PCS COVID-19 Information Line (707) 778-4626. AERIES DATA CONFIRMATION Help your school make our celebration list by completing Data Confirmation in the Aeries Parent Portal . We can't wait to see who's in the lead in our next newsletter! PBIS: Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports Petaluma City Schools is participating in an important District initiative called Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). For the past several months, Petaluma City School educators have been meeting to discuss the need for behavioral support and restorative systems in our schools. The end result has been a District Wide commitment to PBIS in order to create safe and predictable environments for all students and staff. What is Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports? Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is an evidence-based, tiered framework that supports students’ behavioral, academic, social, emotional, and mental health. When implemented with fidelity, PBIS improves social emotional competence, academic success, and school climate. It also improves teacher health and wellbeing. It is a way to create positive, predictable, equitable and safe learning environments where everyone thrives. The process focuses on improving a school’s ability to teach and support positive behavior for all students. Rather than a prescribed program, PBIS provides systems for schools to design, implement, and evaluate effective school-wide, classroom, non-classroom, and student specific plans. PBIS includes school-wide procedures and processes intended for all students and all staff in all settings. PBIS is not a program or a curriculum. It is a team-based process for systemic problem solving, planning, and evaluation. It is an approach to creating a safe and productive learning environment where teachers can teach and all students can learn. What you will begin to see around schools are posters and signs reminding students of school-wide rules and procedures. This year, you should notice a greater emphasis on teaching and modeling behavior expectations for all students. Providing PBIS and Restorative Practices on our schools sites will support our PCS District Goals: All student scholars will experience an excellent, diverse, equitable, and inclusive education. All students will learn in a healthy, safe, and welcoming environment that fosters equity and inclusion. UPDATE ON MICROGRID SYSTEM District Goal 4: Our District will enhance the long-term environmental sustainability of our organization, infrastructure, and operations. PCS continues to be a leader in green energy for Petaluma. Our District has installed solar at every school site. The next phase we’re entering is installing a microgrid battery system at both Casa Grande High School and PJHS using Tesla batteries. These projects have been underway for several months and the first Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) arrived at Petaluma Junior on Monday morning. We’re excited to provide this update in our ongoing efforts to lead the way when it comes to being energy efficient. VALLEY OAKS INDEPENDENT STUDY HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM One of the many special things about Petaluma City Schools is that we strive to provide a variety of learning environments to meet the needs of all student scholars. One of our PCS hidden gems is Valley Oaks Independent Study High School. Independent study is a great option for students who want more flexibility in their school schedule. At Valley Oaks School , students can create their own schedule to accommodate other interests such as work opportunities or athletics, as well as to support health issues or social/emotional concerns. Valley Oaks students have the opportunity to co-enroll at Petaluma High School or Casa Grande High School in order to take one or two classes at a comprehensive high school. Valley Oaks students can also participate in sports at their sending high school. Valley Oaks offers a full complement of A-G, college prep coursework to get students ready for a 4-year college. Valley Oaks can also accelerate student coursework to help students get their diplomas early if they are ready to focus on pursuits beyond high school. If you are interested in learning more, click here to find out more about Valley Oaks and to see if independent study is for you . Please feel free to contact Valley Oaks secretary Susan Cook at 707-778-4794 to learn more about their program and to join an informational meeting. PETALUMA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION RUBY RED BASH: JOIN US! Students in Petaluma City Schools benefit greatly from the support of the Petaluma Educational Foundation. Visit the PEF website to purchase tickets , shop the auction , and enter to win the Taste of the Town Raffle . COMMUNITY FEEDBACK OPPORTUNITY: A-G COMPLETION IMPROVEMENT GRANT To be admitted to a California State University (CSU) or University of California (UC) campus, students typically must complete California’s minimum high school graduation requirements and the A-G sequence of courses while in high school. The University of California website is a great resource for parents and community members who wish to learn more about A-G and admissions into the CSU/UC systems. The State is providing grant funds to increase the number of students who graduate with their A-G requirements, thereby eligible for CSU/UC colleges. Having received funds from the A-G completion grant, we want to share our draft plan with you, as well as provide an opportunity for community input. If you are interested in learning more and/or providing input, please complete the A-G Completion Grant Community Feedback form by September 7th. FUN WITH FOOD SERVICES September breakfast and lunch menus can be found on our Petaluma City Schools Food Services website . Tune into our YouTube Channel: 3 School Foodies or visit the Petaluma City Schools Food Service Facebook page for regular updates, including any menu changes. It's not too late to c omplete a Free and Reduced Meal Application Form via Titan OR print a Free and Reduced Meal Application and turn it into your school office in order to help our District receive critical funding. EXTREME HEAT WARNING FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND Via Petaluma City Community Update for September 1, 2022 The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Warning for the 2022 Labor Day Weekend. Temperatures are expected to reach 90° - 100° F beginning Friday and lasting through Tuesday. A letter shared from The California Department of Education regarding Flex Alert and conserving energy is attached below. To be prepared for the heat and safely enjoy your holiday weekend, please remind your student to wear light, loose-fitting clothing, stay protected from sun exposure with a wide-brimmed hat, and drink plenty of water. For more resources regarding staying safe during excessive heat, please visit: https://cityofpetaluma.org/heat RIVERTOWN HOOPS TOURNAMENT Petaluma City Schools District does not sponsor, staff, supervise, support, or endorse the information, activities, or events posted. FOLLOW PETALUMA CITY SCHOOLS ON SOCIAL MEDIA Don’t miss out on the magical moments of our students and schools that we share on our social media channels! Each and every day, we’ll be sharing stories of PCS on Instagram , Twitter , and Facebook . We’re here! Be here with us! Follow Petaluma City Schools on social media.

Friday, Sep 02 2022
PCS Newsletter September 2, 2022

PCS Newsletter Dear PCS Families, I hope that everyone is having a smooth transition into the new school year. During the course of the first three weeks of school, I’ve been fortunate to walk through each of our school sites. In doing so, I’ve felt encouraged that students seem to be moving in the right direction both academically and socially-emotionally, and are progressing along the path to becoming college and career ready. Thank you to our teachers and staff for all their hard work in getting us to this point. This year, one of my goals is to bring together a Superintendent’s Lay Advisory Committee (SLAC), designed to facilitate communication directly between the superintendent and the parents and guardians of our student body. For 2022-23, I’d like to focus on our District Goal of ensuring that all student scholars have rich academic options that meet their unique needs. In particular, I’d like to explore the transition from junior high school to high school and come up with some ideas about how our District can increase the options to meet the needs of students moving into high school. Families of 6th - 8th graders who are interested in participating in SLAC should complete this form no later than September 9th. Ideally, I’d like to partner with a balanced group of families from various schools. Those who are invited to participate will be notified by September 13th. The meetings will be held once a month, primarily on Tuesdays (9/20, 10/18, 11/29, 12/08, and 01/24) from 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM. The first meeting will be in-person at the District Office with English-Spanish interpretation. I hope that you all get to take a moment this Labor Day weekend to rest and recharge with loved ones. In partnership, Matthew Harris Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools NO SCHOOL: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5TH PCS IN THE NEWS Did you miss these articles in the Press Democrat and Argus Courier? We’ve got you covered! Penngrove Goes Wild with New Roadside Mural Student-run United Anglers of Casa Grande gets permit to help dwindling trout population in Petaluma STUDENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT From Jog-a-thons, to international visitors, to celebrations, special meetings, and dual immersion learning, our PCS students and families are engaged! JOIN THE PCS TEAM AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE Here at Petaluma City Schools, we continue to recruit and hire new team members who will best serve our students. We hope you’ll help spread the word that we need our community’s help to be fully staffed for the 2022-23 school year. We have multiple openings in a variety of jobs throughout our District, including both full-time and part-time opportunities. Linked here is a list of our Open Positions . Check out this week's highlighted jobs below: Librarian - Petaluma Junior High School School Nurse Senior School Secretary - McDowell Elementary School WELLNESS CORNER Save the date: The Triangulum with Sarah Ferrero Cunningham, PsyD - September, 21, 2022 PCS students, families, adult allies, and community members are invited to explore cutting-edge research on tobacco, cannabis, and vaping. Using these substances impacts the physical, mental, and overall wellness of our youth. On Wednesday, September 21, community-based organizations, such as Petaluma People Services and Narcotics Anonymous for Schools will have resources available for our families from 5:30 P.M. - 7:00 P.M. Location: Casa Grande High School Multi-Purpose Room National Suicide Prevention Lifeline The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers trained crisis counselors to anyone who dials 988. If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty with mental health, substance abuse, or suicide, there are resources to support you. The State of California Requires All Students to Have 10 Immunizations. Are Your Student's Immunizations Up To Date? Please take a moment to review your student’s immunization status in the Aeries Parent Portal to ensure that all immunizations are up to date. Submit any updated immunization records to your school site as a soon as possible. Log into your Parent Portal Account Select appropriate students (if you have more than one student in the District) Select medical Select immunizations If you need help completing your child’s required immunizations, visit the Department of Public Health’s website for a list of community clinics in Sonoma County . Care Solace - What an Incredible Resource! PCS is committed to the health and well-being of our students, staff, and families to create a safe and healthy learning environment. In support of our ongoing commitment, we have partnered with Care Solace to provide an additional layer of care for our community. Care Solace helps individuals find both mental health care providers and substance use treatment centers. Their Care Companion team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year to quickly connect you to carefully verified providers in our community. Care Solace is available now for you and anyone in your household at no cost ! Students, staff, and families (including all household members) may access Care Solace services in two ways: 1. Call (888) 515-0595 24/7/365. Support is available in 200+ languages. A dedicated Care Companion will help you every step of the way to research options, secure appointments, and follow up to make sure the provider is a good fit. 2. Search anonymously for a care provider . Use the link below to answer a few questions and be matched with an extensive list of providers at https://www.caresolace.com/site/petk12 COVID-19 TESTING UPDATES Please note that beginning September 1, 2022 , Petaluma City Schools will continue to provide professionally-administered rapid antigen tests and free over-the-counter antigen tests. However, Petaluma City Schools will no longer provide PCR tests as a testing option . For questions please call our PCS COVID-19 Information Line (707) 778-4626. AERIES DATA CONFIRMATION Help your school make our celebration list by completing Data Confirmation in the Aeries Parent Portal . We can't wait to see who's in the lead in our next newsletter! PBIS: Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports Petaluma City Schools is participating in an important District initiative called Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). For the past several months, Petaluma City School educators have been meeting to discuss the need for behavioral support and restorative systems in our schools. The end result has been a District Wide commitment to PBIS in order to create safe and predictable environments for all students and staff. What is Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports? Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is an evidence-based, tiered framework that supports students’ behavioral, academic, social, emotional, and mental health. When implemented with fidelity, PBIS improves social emotional competence, academic success, and school climate. It also improves teacher health and wellbeing. It is a way to create positive, predictable, equitable and safe learning environments where everyone thrives. The process focuses on improving a school’s ability to teach and support positive behavior for all students. Rather than a prescribed program, PBIS provides systems for schools to design, implement, and evaluate effective school-wide, classroom, non-classroom, and student specific plans. PBIS includes school-wide procedures and processes intended for all students and all staff in all settings. PBIS is not a program or a curriculum. It is a team-based process for systemic problem solving, planning, and evaluation. It is an approach to creating a safe and productive learning environment where teachers can teach and all students can learn. What you will begin to see around schools are posters and signs reminding students of school-wide rules and procedures. This year, you should notice a greater emphasis on teaching and modeling behavior expectations for all students. Providing PBIS and Restorative Practices on our schools sites will support our PCS District Goals: All student scholars will experience an excellent, diverse, equitable, and inclusive education. All students will learn in a healthy, safe, and welcoming environment that fosters equity and inclusion. UPDATE ON MICROGRID SYSTEM District Goal 4: Our District will enhance the long-term environmental sustainability of our organization, infrastructure, and operations. PCS continues to be a leader in green energy for Petaluma. Our District has installed solar at every school site. The next phase we’re entering is installing a microgrid battery system at both Casa Grande High School and PJHS using Tesla batteries. These projects have been underway for several months and the first Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) arrived at Petaluma Junior on Monday morning. We’re excited to provide this update in our ongoing efforts to lead the way when it comes to being energy efficient. VALLEY OAKS INDEPENDENT STUDY HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM One of the many special things about Petaluma City Schools is that we strive to provide a variety of learning environments to meet the needs of all student scholars. One of our PCS hidden gems is Valley Oaks Independent Study High School. Independent study is a great option for students who want more flexibility in their school schedule. At Valley Oaks School , students can create their own schedule to accommodate other interests such as work opportunities or athletics, as well as to support health issues or social/emotional concerns. Valley Oaks students have the opportunity to co-enroll at Petaluma High School or Casa Grande High School in order to take one or two classes at a comprehensive high school. Valley Oaks students can also participate in sports at their sending high school. Valley Oaks offers a full complement of A-G, college prep coursework to get students ready for a 4-year college. Valley Oaks can also accelerate student coursework to help students get their diplomas early if they are ready to focus on pursuits beyond high school. If you are interested in learning more, click here to find out more about Valley Oaks and to see if independent study is for you . Please feel free to contact Valley Oaks secretary Susan Cook at 707-778-4794 to learn more about their program and to join an informational meeting. PETALUMA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION RUBY RED BASH: JOIN US! Students in Petaluma City Schools benefit greatly from the support of the Petaluma Educational Foundation. Visit the PEF website to purchase tickets , shop the auction , and enter to win the Taste of the Town Raffle . COMMUNITY FEEDBACK OPPORTUNITY: A-G COMPLETION IMPROVEMENT GRANT To be admitted to a California State University (CSU) or University of California (UC) campus, students typically must complete California’s minimum high school graduation requirements and the A-G sequence of courses while in high school. The University of California website is a great resource for parents and community members who wish to learn more about A-G and admissions into the CSU/UC systems. The State is providing grant funds to increase the number of students who graduate with their A-G requirements, thereby eligible for CSU/UC colleges. Having received funds from the A-G completion grant, we want to share our draft plan with you, as well as provide an opportunity for community input. If you are interested in learning more and/or providing input, please complete the A-G Completion Grant Community Feedback form by September 7th. FUN WITH FOOD SERVICES September breakfast and lunch menus can be found on our Petaluma City Schools Food Services website . Tune into our YouTube Channel: 3 School Foodies or visit the Petaluma City Schools Food Service Facebook page for regular updates, including any menu changes. It's not too late to c omplete a Free and Reduced Meal Application Form via Titan OR print a Free and Reduced Meal Application and turn it into your school office in order to help our District receive critical funding. EXTREME HEAT WARNING FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND Via Petaluma City Community Update for September 1, 2022 The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Warning for the 2022 Labor Day Weekend. Temperatures are expected to reach 90° - 100° F beginning Friday and lasting through Tuesday. A letter shared from The California Department of Education regarding Flex Alert and conserving energy is attached below. To be prepared for the heat and safely enjoy your holiday weekend, please remind your student to wear light, loose-fitting clothing, stay protected from sun exposure with a wide-brimmed hat, and drink plenty of water. For more resources regarding staying safe during excessive heat, please visit: https://cityofpetaluma.org/heat RIVERTOWN HOOPS TOURNAMENT Petaluma City Schools District does not sponsor, staff, supervise, support, or endorse the information, activities, or events posted. FOLLOW PETALUMA CITY SCHOOLS ON SOCIAL MEDIA Don’t miss out on the magical moments of our students and schools that we share on our social media channels! Each and every day, we’ll be sharing stories of PCS on Instagram , Twitter , and Facebook . We’re here! Be here with us! Follow Petaluma City Schools on social media.

Friday, Sep 02 2022
Information Regarding St. Vincent's High School Closure

Dear PCS Families, This morning at approximately 9:15 AM, we received information that two students at St. Vincent’s High School in Petaluma received a social media message containing images of several guns from an unknown account that has since been deactivated. As a result, St. Vincent’s High School closed their campus today. At this time, we have not received any reports from Petaluma City Schools students regarding such images or messages. Out of an abundance of caution, we have been in communication with the Petaluma Police Department, who advised us that there is no threat to Petaluma City Schools. We know that news travels quickly in town and want you to be aware of all the information we have at this time. We know that a single instance of violence threatened publicly can spur a number of copycat threats, and therefore we must remain vigilant. We take any and all threats seriously and will continue to work closely with law enforcement to ensure that our schools are safe places for students and staff. If your student is experiencing increased levels of stress or fear related to this incident, please reach out to the counseling staff or site administration at your student’s school. As always, thank you for your partnership, Matthew Harris Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools

Thursday, Sep 01 2022
PCS Newsletter August 19, 2022

PCS Newsletter August 19, 2022 Dear PCS Community, What a fabulous first week of school! If you didn’t get a chance to see our first-day video, please take a moment to check out the amazing things happening throughout Petaluma City Schools . I want to take a moment to thank our incredible teachers and staff for their hard work these past several weeks. Each year, the miracle of the first day of school comes and goes, and it is our amazing teachers and staff who put in the extra time and effort to make sure our students and families experience such a special start to the school year. As I reflect on the start of school this year as compared to last year, I feel optimistic and downright excited that the culture and traditions that had been put on hold over the past couple of years due to Distance Learning are being reestablished and reimagined on each and every one of our campuses. Our District’s mission statement calls us to deliver an excellent, diverse, equitable, and inclusive education to all student scholars so they creatively explore interests, collaboratively solve problems, and fully develop as resilient, caring, and responsible members of the community. This year, as an organization, we are focusing on the following five core values / beliefs: All students have value, infinite potential, and the right to an excellent education. All students learn in a safe and caring environment where they are motivated to do their best work. All students reach high levels of achievement through rigorous and culturally relevant curriculum. Diversity is an asset that strengthens and enriches our learning community. Parents and caregivers are recognized and engaged as partners. Our aim is for all students to feel safe, have at least one trusted adult at school, and feel part of a caring community of learners. We want all students to receive rigorous and relevant instruction with high expectations for their learning as they prepare to graduate from high school ready for college and their future career. Have a wonderful weekend PCS, and I look forward to an exciting second week of school. In partnership, Matthew Harris Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools PCS IN THE NEWS Did you miss these articles in the Argus Courier? We’ve got you covered! Petaluma’s McDowell Elementary debuts new program that teaches students in dual languages Petaluma students, staff head back to school STUDENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT Thanks so much to our elementary families who took our soccer survey last week! Based on the results of the survey, we will move our soccer league to the Spring. AIR QUALITY UPDATE As you may be aware from the news, the Six Rivers Fire is currently burning in Humboldt County . While we do not anticipate that this fire or smoke will significantly impact us in Sonoma County, this is a good reminder and opportunity for us to get prepared in case of future unhealthy outdoor air quality concerns. As a District, Petaluma City Schools uses the Sonoma County Schools Air Quality Guidance ( Español ) to support our decision making in how we keep students and staff safe in the case of unhealthy outdoor air quality. We are often asked if we plan to transition back to Distance Learning if the air quality gets bad. The short answer is no. State laws enabling school districts to hold Distance Learning classes expired on June 30, 2021 and under current State law, school districts are required to offer full-time, in-person instruction . Our goal will be to keep school open as much as possible through bad air days for the following reasons: Unless students leave the area, we are all experiencing the same local air quality. Our school Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems are robust and effective. The filters in our HVAC systems were upgraded after the fires of 2017 and we regularly monitor and maintain high-quality, MERV-13 filters throughout the District. Above and beyond the upgraded air filtration systems, we have added AIRROW Light 2000 UV-C Air Treatment Systems (air scrubbers) to every classroom. These air scrubbers filter the classroom air through multiple stages, including a combination of HEPA filtration and UV-C light treatment, which is designed to kill viral particles, mold, contaminants, allergens, pollutants, and other harmful microorganisms in the classroom. With that said, during unhealthy outdoor air quality days, we will use the Sonoma County Schools Air Quality Guidance chart as a guide when determining next steps. For example, if we were to have a localized reading of unhealthy air quality on fire.airnow.gov (orange tier and above), PCS would begin to move activities indoors and close all school windows and doors. In doing so, we would be relying on our HVAC systems and air scrubbers, along with our COVID-19 mitigation strategies ( Español ). These strategies, when used together, are designed to keep our students and staff safe even on unhealthy outdoor air quality days. WELLNESS CORNER Introducing Care Solace PCS is committed to the health and well-being of our students, staff, and families to create a safe and healthy learning environment. In support of our ongoing commitment, we have partnered with Care Solace to provide an additional layer of care for our community. Care Solace helps individuals find both mental health care providers and substance use treatment centers. Their Care Companion team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year to quickly connect you to carefully verified providers in our community. Care Solace is available now for you and anyone in your household at no cost ! Students, staff, and families (including all household members) may access Care Solace services in two ways: Call (888) 515-0595 24/7/365. Support is available in 200+ languages. A dedicated Care Companion will help you every step of the way to research options, secure appointments, and follow up to make sure the provider is a good fit. Search anonymously for a care provider . Use the link below to answer a few questions and be matched with an extensive list of providers at https://www.caresolace.com/site/petk12 . Immunization Record Update Parents/guardians now have access to view students’ State-mandated immunization records in the Aeries Parent Portal. Please take a moment to review your student’s immunization status to ensure that all immunizations are up to date. To learn more, visit the PCS Immunization Requirements and Policies page . Log into your Parent Portal Account Select appropriate students (if you have more than one student in the District) Select medical Select immunizations Please submit any updated immunization records to your school site as a soon as possible. Thank you in advance! Save the Date: The Triangulum with Sarah Ferrero Cunningham, PsyD - September, 21, 2022 PCS students, families, adult allies, and community members are invited to explore cutting-edge research on tobacco, cannabis, and vaping. Presenter Sarah Ferrero Cunninghm, PsyD will share the impact that substance use can have on young people’s physical health, mental health, and wellness. Community-based organizations, such as Petaluma People Services and Narcotics Anonymous for Schools, will have resources available for our families beginning at 5:30 PM. Location : Casa Grande Multi-Purpose Room Time : 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM JOIN THE PCS TEAM AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Here at Petaluma City Schools, we continue to recruit and hire new team members who will best serve our students. We hope you’ll help spread the word that we need our community’s help to be fully staffed for the 2022-23 school year. We have multiple openings in a variety of jobs throughout our District, including both full-time and part-time opportunities. Linked here is a list of our Open Positions . Check out this week's highlighted jobs below: School Nurse Bilingual TK Instructional Assistant - McDowell Elementary Account Clerk III RSP/SDC Teachers Pictured above: New Teacher Orientation - August 5, 2022 COVID-19 UPDATES As we begin the 2022-23 school year, we would like to remind our community that health guidelines are set by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and, for school staff and volunteers, by Cal/OSHA. At this time, there are no Sonoma County Health orders that override these guidelines. Under the current CDPH guidance, masks and COVID-19 vaccines are not required but are strongly recommended. Please review our PCS Student & Family Handbook for COVID-19 Safety ( Español ) for further information and best practices. Looking for vaccination information? Visit the Sonoma County COVID-19 Vaccine Resource Page . Our PCS COVID-19 testing site has returned to regular hours and tests are available for all students and staff. Please feel free to visit our PCS testing website for information and tips. With your help, we can keep our staff, students, and families safe, healthy, and in school. Be sure to take a look at our newly updated PCS COVID-19 FAQ and keep an eye on our COVID-19 Dashboard. For questions, please contact the PCS COVID-19 information line : (707) 778-4626 (se habla español 2022 ELPAC AND CAASPP STUDENT SCORE REPORTS ARE AVAILABLE! In the spring, PCS students participated in the California Assessment of Student Progress and Performance (CAASPP). Students in grades 3 through 8 and 11 participated in the Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBAC) for English Language Arts/Literacy (ELA) and Math. Students in grades 5, 8 and 11 or 12 took the California Science Test (CAST). In addition, every student identified as an English Learner in grades TK through 12 took the English Language Proficiency for California (ELPAC). CAASPP and ELPAC scores can be accessed electronically via the Aeries Parent Portal . Log into your Parent Portal Account Click on Test Scores Select State Test Scores Reports Click on the test tab to view the scores If you are unable to view the reports electronically, you can request a printed copy from your student’s school office. CONGRATS, PETALUMA HIGH FFA! We are very proud of our Petaluma High FFA members who recently participated in the Sonoma County Fair. Months of hard work was showcased in both the livestock shows and the agricultural mechanics areas. Special shoutout to advisors Jake Dunn and Kim Arntz for their leadership in our PHS Agriculture Department. FOOD SERVICES UPDATE Similar to last year, all students continue to be eligible for free breakfast and lunch. Although meals are being provided, it is critical to our District’s state and federal funding that all families do two things: Complete Aeries Data Confirmation Complete a Free and Reduced Meal Application Form via Titan OR print a Free and Reduced Meal Application and turn into your school office. For each student who qualifies for free or reduced lunch, our District receives funding, used to support our students and their academic success. We have many programs that rely on this funding and it’s extremely important that we not only maintain these programs, but increase and improve them. School breakfast and lunch menus can be found on our Petaluma City Schools Food Services website . Tune into our YouTube Channel: 3 School Foodies or visit the Petaluma City Schools Food Service Facebook page for regular updates, including any menu changes. FOLLOW PETALUMA CITY SCHOOLS ON SOCIAL MEDIA Don’t miss out on the magical moments of our students and schools that we share on our social media channels! Each and every day, we’ll be sharing stories of PCS on Instagram , Twitter , and Facebook . We’re here! Be here with us! Follow Petaluma City Schools on social media.

Friday, Aug 19 2022
What a start!

Dear PCS Community, We had an incredible first day of school yesterday welcoming back our students! Please enjoy the short video below that captures just some of the PCS magic that took place across our 18 sites. Keep an eye out for the PCS Newsletter on Friday and in the meantime, be sure to connect with us on social media! It's going to be a great year! Petaluma City Schools

Wednesday, Aug 17 2022
Data Confirmation In-Person Support, This Saturday!

Are you unable to complete Aeries Data Confirmation? We're here to help! Who: PCS Aeries Support Team What: Aeries Data Confirmation Drop-in Support Where : PCS Board Room, 200 Douglas Street, Petaluma, Ca, 94952 When : Saturday, August 13, 9 AM to 3 PM Support will be offered in English and Spanish, and we will provide devices. If you are unable to attend, you can also receive assistance by contacting parentconnect@petk12.org.

Tuesday, Aug 09 2022
Remember to Complete Aeries Data Confirmation!

We'd like to thank all of you who have already completed Aeries Data Confirmation for the 22-23 school year and ask those who have not yet done so to please complete it as soon as possible . The expectation is that all families complete Aeries Data Confirmation prior to the first day of school. Please log into your Aeries portal account to complete this process. Data Confirmation is the annual process that allows parents/guardians to update, review, and approve student information including emergency contacts, medical conditions, and other authorizations. It is incredibly important to our staff to have the most up to date information in our data system. Please note data confirmation must be completed for EACH student. New Students Families with students new to the school will receive an email with information about how to access their Aeries portal account. Troubleshooting Tips If your student is new to the school and you did not receive Aeries portal login information, please check your spam folder for an email from DoNotReply@petk12.org. If you receive a message that your account already exists when logging in, please follow the directions below to reset your password. Password Reset Instructions 1. Go to login Aeries portal login page 2. Select "Forgot Password?" 3. Enter your email address 4. Log into your email and follow the directions sent from email DoNotReply@petk12.org For further assistance please email parentconnect@petk12.org

Tuesday, Aug 09 2022
A Message from Our Superintendent

A Message from Our Superintendent Dear Petaluma City Schools community, We hope you’re enjoying these final days of summer! This past week, our leadership team spent time reconnecting and planning an incredible year ahead for our community of learners and our teaching staff will be back on campus next week to engage in meaningful professional development. We just wanted to take a moment to check in, to let you know we were thinking of you, and to wish you all a wonderful end of summer. If you haven’t already, you will be hearing from your school site in the coming days. In partnership, Matthew Harris Petaluma City Schools Leadership Team

Friday, Aug 05 2022
Remember to Complete Aeries Data Confirmation!

We'd like to thank all of you who have already completed Aeries Data Confirmation for the 22-23 school year and ask those who have not yet done so to please complete it as soon as possible . The expectation is that all families complete Aeries Data Confirmation prior to the first day of school. Please log into your Aeries portal account to complete this process. Data Confirmation is the annual process that allows parents/guardians to update, review, and approve student information including emergency contacts, medical conditions, and other authorizations. It is incredibly important to our staff to have the most up to date information in our data system. Please note data confirmation must be completed for EACH student. New Students Families with students new to the school will receive an email with information about how to access their Aeries portal account. Troubleshooting Tips If your student is new to the school and you did not receive Aeries portal login information, please check your spam folder for an email from DoNotReply@petk12.org. If you receive a message that your account already exists when logging in, please follow the directions below to reset your password. Password Reset Instructions 1. Go to login Aeries portal login page 2. Select "Forgot Password?" 3. Enter your email address 4. Log into your email and follow the directions sent from email DoNotReply@petk12.org For further assistance please email parentconnect@petk12.org

Tuesday, Aug 02 2022