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  • Your Voice Matters: Take Our Superintendent Search S...

    Your Voice Matters: Take Our Superintendent Search Survey Dear Petaluma City Schools Community, As you may know, our current superintendent, Matthew Harris, has announced his resignation at the end of this school year. We are grateful for his many years of dedicated leadership and service to our district, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors. Selecting a new superintendent is one of the most important responsibilities of the school board. As we begin this process, we are prioritizing meaningful community input to help guide our search. We invite all families, staff members, junior high and high school students, and community members to participate in our Superintendent Search Survey. The survey is now open and takes less than 10 minutes to complete. Your feedback will help shape the “Next Superintendent Criteria,” ensuring that our selection process reflects the needs and priorities of the Petaluma community. Our next superintendent is expected to join the district in July. Thank you for taking the time to share your voice and support this important effort. The survey will remain open through this Friday at 6:00 PM. Warmly, Petaluma City Schools Take the Survey Now!

    Monday, Mar 30 2026

  • March 2026 Newsletter

    PCS Newsletter March 2026 Dear Petaluma City Schools Community, As we move further into the second semester, this is one of the most exciting times of the school year. It is often when we see students growing by leaps and bounds, and much of the groundwork that was laid in the fall really begins to take root. Concepts start to click, confidence builds, and students begin to see just how capable they truly are. Of course, this time of growth can also come with moments of challenge. We often hear students sharing frustrations as learning gets deeper and expectations rise. As parents and caregivers, this gives us a great opportunity to normalize those feelings and remind our children that challenge is a natural and important part of the learning process. Academic struggle does not mean they are failing. It means they are learning. This time of year can also bring a unique energy for our seniors. Graduation is beginning to feel real, and many are starting to feel the familiar “senior itch.” With spring break just around the corner, it is a good moment to encourage students to hang in there and really soak in these last few months of high school. These final moments with friends, teachers, and their school community are special and pass quickly. It has been such a joy to spend time out on our campuses recently, seeing the learning, growth, and connections happening every day in our classrooms and school communities. I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our incredible staff who continue to show up for our students with dedication and care. Even as they navigate a challenging budget and an ever changing world, they keep our shared mission at the center of their work: providing every student an excellent education. Thank you for being such an important part of the Petaluma City Schools community. We truly are better together. In partnership,  Matthew Harris Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools Congratulations Casa Grande High School State Superintendent Tony Thurmond Announces 2026 California Distinguished Schools Congratulations, Casa Grande High School, for being recognized as a California Distinguished School! This is the first time Casa has ever been recognized as a California Distinguished school. Since its inception in 1985, the California Distinguished Schools Award remains one of the state’s most important ways to celebrate exemplary schools for their innovation, talent, and success in supporting students. The 2026 California Distinguished Schools will be recognized at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim on April 24, 2026. Way to go, Gauchos! LCAP You are invited to join us for our upcoming LCAP Community Meeting! This is a wonderful opportunity for staff, students, and families to come together and learn about the progress we have made toward our District goals at the mid-year mark. During the meeting, we will share a mid-year update on our current actions and initiatives, followed by a gallery walk designed to provide space for your voice and input. We want to hear from our community as we continue to shape and refine the actions that support our goals and serve our students. 📅 Date: Elementary - Monday, March 23, 2026  Secondary- Tuesday, March 24, 2026 🕐 Time: 5:30- 7:00 PM 📍 Location: PCS Board Room at the PCS District Office; 200 Douglas St.  Environmental Literacy & Climate Action The Petaluma City Schools Environmental Literacy & Climate Action Committee has had a productive spring, focusing on bringing high-quality environmental literacy and climate curriculum directly into our classrooms. Here is a summary of our recent work and the exciting resources now available to all PCS staff. Highlights Amigos Alados: This unique pen-pal program connects students in Petaluma with peers in Mexico and Canada. Together, students track and share information about the migratory birds they share across borders, fostering a sense of international stewardship and ecological connection. Project Super Plants: We debuted new videos from the Super Plants team! The focus is on planting "carbon-absorbing" plants that serve as a tangible tool for mitigating global warming right on our campuses. SFSU Climate Justice Certificate: For those looking to deepen their professional expertise, participants learned about the Climate Justice Certificate at San Francisco State University. This year-long program offers teachers free CEUs and potential scholarships to cover all tuition costs.  Teachers Kerry Santia and Keoni Yu from Mary Collins at Cherry Valley hosted an  immersive tour of their campus, co-leading a Biodiversity Audit. This hands-on activity allows students to act as "ecosystem physicians," checking the health of their local environment by identifying native species and habitat layers. The committee discussed how data collected from these audits—at any PCS campus—can be used to design and implement future habitat restoration and student-led stewardship projects. Save the Date! Calling all student stewards and climate champions! We are thrilled to announce Future Fest, a community-wide celebration of environmental literacy taking place on May 3, 2026. Support Outdoor Learning and Climate Literacy! Outdoor Learning and Environmental Literacy Act of 2026 Sign On to Support this Bill CA State Seal of Climate Literacy Learn how to support this bill Looking Ahead: PCS Environmental Literacy & Climate Action Committee - Tuesday, April 21, 2026 from 4:00-5:30 PM, PCS District Office Board Room College & Career Corner Spring is nearly upon us and it's BUSY in the college and career world!  We are very excited to share that no less than FIVE CTE pathways will be represented (CGHS Fish Hatchery, CGHS Food Service & Hospitality, PHS Automotive, PHS Engineering, and PHS Digital Media) at the upcoming annual Spark the Future fundraiser for our essential partner - CTE Foundation of Sonoma County - April 16, 4:30-8:30pm! Check out the full list of pathways featured in the Student Showcase. Purchase tickets and support CTE!! In other news, we are so grateful to the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors for their recognition of CTE as a key driver for preparing students for the future, as well as fueling a healthy local economy. The Gold Resolution was passed on Tuesday, March 3. Thank you Supervisors for your support! In addition, Monday, March 16 will feature an official City of Petaluma proclamation in support of CTE. Thank you all for partnering for career education and work-based learning!     Pathway Spotlights ENTREPRENEURSHIP PETALUMA HIGH SCHOOL VALENTINE'S DAY CELEBRITY-COLLAB TREAT BOX For this project, the students team up to create the ultimate Valentine's Day celebrity-collab treat box. This is a 3-part project where student partners design a limited-edition, branded product, build a prototype, and pitch their marketing plan to the class. Their goal is to research, design, and create the next big, limited-edition treat box.  SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PETALUMA HIGH SCHOOL Lane Buttke scraping corrals/alleys in the freestall barn at N/A Buttke Dairy in Sebastopol where he works as a relief milker, calf feeder, and herdsman. What's New in the World of Work-Based Learning? Free Summer Construction Camps in Petaluma! These camps are offered in partnership with Santa Rosa Junior College (Petaluma Campus) and Tradeswomen, Inc. (TWI) for students in Grades 11 and 12. The camps will provide a unique, hands-on introduction to the construction industry through practical skill-building and career exploration. Camp participants will also earn their CPR certification, a noncredit SRJC course, “Survey of the Building and Construction Trades Industry,” and go home with a set of tools! This event is FREE and meals are included. Sign-Up Here!  TWI Summer Construction Camps 2026 Interest Form  Petaluma Valley Hospital Work Experience Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? Providence Petaluma Valley Hospital is looking for student volunteers! It’s a great way to gain experience in a healthcare setting, meet new people, and help patients and families. High school students (with parental permission) are welcome. Ready to start? Sign up here! THANK YOU TO OUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS! JOIN THE TEAM! Stay Connected! Victor Hughes, Work-Based Learning Coordinator 📧 Contact: vhughes@petk12.org Updates & Reminders Attention Parents!  Have you registered your CaliforniaColleges.edu account yet? Easy instructions in (English) and (Spanish) ! Check out College & Career Pathways, Petaluma Promise, Work-Based Learning, and Career Technical Education webpages to learn more about what is new and exciting in PCS College & Career. Students! Need a work permit?  CASA, PHS  PHS College & Career Center, CGHS College & Career Center Check back HERE regularly for student work-based learning opportunities! Thank you for reading! See you next month for more College & Career News & Updates! Join Our PCS Team! Apply Today! Check out this week's highlighted job opportunities below: Check out this week’s highlighted job opportunities below: Director of Technology, Innovation & Enrollment Principal, McKinley/Petaluma Accelerated Charter Schools Athletic Trainer, Petaluma High School If you have any questions regarding any of our open positions, please contact our Human Resources Department at (707) 778-4795 or email hrinfo@petk12.org. View Job Openings PCS Food and Nutrition “Life, with its rules, its obligations, and its freedoms, is like a sonnet: You’re given the form, but you have to write the sonnet yourself.” — Madeleine L’Engle, A Wrinkle in Time A word about allergen awareness in our school food program… We strive every day to make our cafeterias and kitchens safe and welcoming for all who visit. As such, we take allergies, food safety, and the health and happiness of students very seriously. However, due to the scale and complexity of our daily operation, we cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment. The following is some important information for your consideration about our school food.  Allergen Accommodations at the Point of Service If a request is made at the point of service by a student or para-professional/teacher/school nurse (on student’s behalf), the PCS Food Services staff will do their best to honor that request within reason. (Example: No cheese on a sandwich or no bun with a burger). Please note, unless a Medical Statement to Request Special Meals and/or Accommodations is on file with the district and a dietary modification formally approved, PCS Food Services staff are not responsible for tracking or monitoring students with food sensitivities and allergies. An Important Note About Our Menus We are happy to provide interactive menus on our website as a convenience so that students and families can see the ingredients and nutrition facts information for all menu items, translate the menu into the language of their choice, and filter by allergens and dietary preferences.   Please note, the nutrient and allergen information presented in our published menus cannot be guaranteed as 100% current and accurate. Changes in formulations, data entry errors and menu substitutions due to supply chain disruptions are some of the many reasons we cannot guarantee the complete accuracy of the data. Students who have allergies or dietary considerations that could potentially cause serious or life-threatening illness should not rely on the interactive menu. The published menus are intended to serve as a convenience, but they are not a sufficient tool to guarantee student safety. Students who need precise information due to allergies, dietary restrictions or other medical conditions, should work with a medical professional for guidance about what is safe for them to eat at school.  For our part, we care deeply about this issue and our PCS Food Services Department stands ready to provide any additional information or support to help students safely navigate our school food environment. All food items can be supported with product documentation from vendors and/or manufacturers regarding allergens present within the food itself or at the facility level. Parents can request labels and further information about our menu items by sending an email to pcsfood@petk12.org or calling our PCS Food Services hotline at 707-200-7938. Follow Us! Our PCS community is incredible and we enjoy sharing these magical moments with our followers to give you a glimpse of what we’re all about. At PCS, we like to remind our students they can start here and go anywhere.

    Thursday, Mar 12 2026

  • Important Update: PCS Superintendent Search

    Dear PCS Families, Staff, and Community, I’m writing with an important update about our superintendent search. Last week, I announced that at the March 10th Board meeting,  the Board of Trustees would be formally considering the appointment of Dr. Maité Iturri as the new PCS superintendent.  Dr. Maité Iturri had worked with two PCS Board members and had verbally agreed to an employment contract that was to come to tomorrow’s Board meeting. Last night, the Cotati‑Rohnert Park USD Board held a special meeting and engaged Dr. Iturri in further conversation. After reflection, Dr. Iturri has decided to remain in her current role. She asked me to share the following message with our PCS community: “After deep reflection and conversations with the CRPUSD board and staff, I have decided to remain with Cotati‑Rohnert Park Unified. I am deeply sorry for the disruption my consideration caused. You are an extraordinary community, and I have no doubt you will find the right long‑term leader.” While this news is disappointing, I want to reassure you that PCS remains focused on finding the right next superintendent for PCS. The PCS Board of Trustees will now develop a clear plan to relaunch the superintendent search. The process will be thoughtful, transparent, and centered on finding a leader who can serve PCS with long‑term commitment and stability. We will share more information in the coming days. In partnership, Matthew Harris   Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools

    Monday, Mar 09 2026

  • Important Message re: Superintendent Appointment Pr...

    Dear Petaluma City Schools Community, Petaluma City Schools is pleased to share that at our upcoming Board meeting on Tuesday, March 10th, the Board of Trustees will consider the appointment of Dr. Maité Iturri as the next Superintendent of Petaluma City Schools, effective July 1, 2026.  I have had the great privilege of working closely with Dr. Iturri, and know firsthand the depth of her integrity, her commitment to students and families, and her extraordinary ability to bring people together. If appointed, she will be an exceptional superintendent for our District, and I want to express my full and heartfelt support for this recommendation.  Dr. Iturri brings more than three decades of experience in public education, including 16 years as principal of El Verano Elementary School in Sonoma Valley, where she led transformative community‑school work, expanded family engagement, and built a nationally recognized model of language development and student‑centered learning. Besides having been a teacher and principal, she has served in a wide range of district leadership roles as Coordinator of Educational Services, Director of District Programs, and adjunct faculty in educational leadership at Sonoma State University. Her focus has been steadfast on equity, relationships, and the belief that every child deserves to be seen and supported. Many in Petaluma will remember her impactful service as Assistant Superintendent of Student Services for PCS, where she strengthened systems of support, deepened partnerships with families, and helped build structures that continue to benefit our students today. For the past three years, Dr. Iturri has served as Superintendent of the Cotati‑Rohnert Park Unified School District, where she has led with clarity, compassion, and a steady hand during a period of significant change. Under her leadership, CRPUSD achieved labor harmony through Interest‑Based Bargaining, opened new preschool and infant classrooms, passed both a bond and a parcel tax, expanded mental health billing, strengthened districtwide safety systems, secured a Community Schools grant, and built data‑driven instructional structures that improved coherence and collaboration across schools. Most importantly, Dr. Iturri fostered trust, relationships, and a shared sense of purpose, which have been the hallmarks of her leadership wherever she serves. Dr. Iturri returns to Petaluma with deep roots in our region, a profound respect for our educators and families, and a clear commitment to listening, learning, and leading in partnership with our community. She understands the moment we are in and the steady, student‑centered leadership required to guide PCS forward. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to support this transition and confident that Dr. Iturri will help our District rebuild, retool, and thrive under her leadership. The Board of Trustees will formally consider her appointment at the March 10th Board meeting. We look forward to welcoming Dr. Iturri back to Petaluma City Schools and to the next chapter of strong, collaborative leadership for our students, staff, and families. In partnership, Matthew Harris Superintendent. Petaluma City Schools

    Friday, Mar 06 2026

  • Leadership Transition at Petaluma City Schools

    Dear PCS Community, With mixed emotions, I am sharing my decision to step down as superintendent of Petaluma City Schools, effective June 30, 2026.  Fourteen years ago, when I joined the leadership team at PCS, first as a principal and later as the superintendent, I did so because I believed deeply in the power of public education and in the promise of this District. My belief has not wavered throughout my time here. I came into this work eager to build programs, expand opportunities, strengthen relationships, and create shared values and a shared vision for our students. I quickly fell in love with this community, and serving PCS has been the greatest honor of my career. We have accomplished so much together. We took on the challenge of returning safely to in‑person learning after the pandemic; we expanded opportunities through PACS, the DLI Academy, Valley Vista Public Waldorf, and new CTE pathways; and we developed the PCS Promise with Sonoma State University. We strengthened family engagement and community partnerships, and we rebuilt trust with our labor partners through transparency and shared decision‑making. These achievements belong to our teachers, staff, administrators, and to a community that shows up for its schools. As we look ahead, the needs of our District have shifted. Despite our collective efforts, Measure I did not pass, and PCS (like many LCFF districts in our county) is now facing a serious fiscal crisis. Instead of building programs, we are being asked to make difficult reductions to remain solvent. This work is essential, and it requires a different kind of leadership than the strengths that have consistently energized and inspired me. I also want to acknowledge the personal side of this decision. This role has taken a real toll on my health and on my family. When I became superintendent, I promised my wife and children that I would continue only as long as I felt inspired and believed I was the right leader for the moment. While my belief in public education and PCS remains unwavering, I no longer feel the same sense of personal alignment that guided my early years here, and the sacrifices at home have become harder to justify. It is time for me to honor that promise and step back. PCS will always hold a special place in my heart. I am committed to supporting our District through the end of the school year and to ensuring a smooth, thoughtful transition for the next superintendent. My children will continue to attend our schools, and our family will remain deeply invested in the success of this community. Thank you for your trust, partnership, and support. Even in this challenging moment, I deeply believe in the strength of PCS and in the people whose dedication defines our District. We are still in this together. In partnership,   Matthew Harris Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools

    Tuesday, Feb 24 2026

  • 🎉 Last Chance: Priority Enrollment Closes Tomorrow!

    Last Chance: Priority Enrollment for TK & Kindergarten Closes Tomorrow! Hello PCS Families, This is a friendly reminder that there is only ONE day left to apply for Priority Enrollment for TK and Kindergarten! 📌 Priority Enrollment closes tomorrow (Friday, February 13). Applications submitted by the deadline will receive priority preference for available spaces. ✨ TK Eligibility Reminder: Children who turn four on or before September 1 are eligible to apply for Transitional Kindergarten (TK). Priority Enrollment is for: Students who are new to PCS, or Current PCS students requesting a transfer to a different PCS school or program Important note for current PCS families: If your child is already enrolled at a PCS school and you plan to stay at your current school next year, no action is needed—your child’s enrollment will automatically continue. 👉 Apply for Priority Enrollment Space is limited, so we encourage families to submit their application by tomorrow. If you have any questions, we’re happy to help—just reach out! Building futures that start here and go anywhere! PCS Enrollment Team

    Thursday, Feb 12 2026

  • February 2026 Newsletter

    PCS Newsletter February 2026 Dear Petaluma City Schools Community, As we look ahead to next week’s mid‑winter break, I hope each of you is able to find some time to rest and be with family and loved ones. Our schools sit at the heart of this community, and I’m continually grateful for all the work of our dedicated and talented staff. Across California and the nation, school districts are facing unprecedented financial pressure. Public education is under attack. Large variations in school funding, unpredictable state revenue, and recent reductions in federal support have pushed school districts across the country into impossible choices that will have a direct impact on students. Here in Petaluma City Schools, these challenges are intensified by the fact that PCS receives near the lowest per‑pupil funding in Sonoma County. As I have previously shared, this inequity makes every budget shift more consequential for our students and staff.  At the same time, student needs have grown. Anecdotally, we are seeing more students with significant medical needs at younger ages, increased mental health concerns, and severe behaviors that were uncommon before the pandemic. Combined with a polarized political climate, these challenges have left many students, families, and staff feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, and out of control. Our Budget Advisory Committee, composed of teachers, staff, admin, and community members, spent months reviewing data and weighing difficult scenarios. Their work reflected the best of our community and centered students at every step, keeping reductions as far away from students as possible. However, given the size of our shortfall, and reductions already made in recent years, the impact will be felt across our schools. Unfortunately, there is no way to close a gap of this magnitude without deep sacrifice. To maintain fiscal solvency, the committee identified approximately $6 million in reductions for 2026–27. These recommendations represent the least harmful path available to overcome this budget crisis. While these reductions affect areas we wish we could expand, they are necessary to keep our district solvent and prevent more serious outcomes. Last night, the Board of Education approved these reductions for the 2026–27 school year. Again, this is not something any of us want to do. It is something we must do to protect the long‑term stability of Petaluma City Schools. As we chart the path ahead, we will continue to look for any and all funding sources to preserve these vital positions. Even in these challenging times, I remain hopeful. Our schools are filled with talented educators, dedicated staff, resilient students, and a community that values public education. That collective strength will carry us forward. Our commitment to students remains unwavering. Thank you for your partnership and for the trust you place in Petaluma City Schools. In partnership, Matthew Harris Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools Mid-Winter Break: February 16th - 20th Each year our school district plans for emergency make-up days which are built into our school calendar and serve as a crucial tool for ensuring that our students receive the full amount of instructional time required by state and local regulations. While we strive to avoid disruptions to our school schedules, there are occasions when unforeseen events—such as severe weather, natural disasters, or public health emergencies—can lead to school closures. Whether it's a flood, a power outage, or other emergency situations, make-up days provide us with the flexibility to adjust the academic calendar, ensuring that students continue to receive the full educational experience they deserve. As a reminder, our most up to date school calendars, including the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years are always available on our PCS website.  Our after school partners Boys and Girls Club and Champions will offer fun mid-winter break camps from 2/18-2/20 for our elementary-aged PCS students. Please reach out to your school's afterschool director for more information. You can find their contact information here. Last Call - Priority Enrollment! Priority Enrollment Closes This Friday! ⏰ Last Call! Priority Enrollment Is OPEN (and Closing Fast!) This is it—the final countdown before Priority Enrollment closes, and we don’t want you stuck saying, “Wait… we were supposed to apply?” Priority Enrollment is now OPEN for all elementary grades, TK–6th! 🎉 But not for long… Important Note for Current PCS Families (aka: You’re All Set!): If your child is already enrolled at a PCS school and you’re planning to stay at the same school next year, good news! There’s nothing you need to do. Your child’s enrollment will automatically roll over. Easy. Breezy. Done. 👀 Who Does Need to Apply? Priority Enrollment is for: Families new to PCS, or Current PCS families requesting a change to a different PCS school or program 👉 View and sign up for a tour 👉 Apply for Priority Enrollment Bottom line: If you want options, choice, and priority - apply by February 13. Have questions? We’re happy to help. Just reach out- we promise we’re friendly. 😊 Submit Your Application Today E-Bike, Traffic & Safety Pedal Power & Safety First! With our schools buzzing with energy and enrollment on the rise, our streets are busier than ever. That’s awesome, but it also means we all need to share the road, sidewalks, and driveways like responsible adults (and model human beings 😉). We’re teaming up with the Petaluma Police Department and Blue Zones to bring you some top-notch bike and pedestrian safety tips. Yes, students love their freedom, riding bikes, scooting, walking but freedom comes with responsibility. Below you will see their pamphlet and guidelines for all things e-bike. Safety first, friends! And if you’re thinking, “It’s just the kids being careless”… nope. It’s not. Getting our students to and from school safely is a big contributor to traffic in our neighborhoods. Booming schools = great things for our community, but let’s be good neighbors while we celebrate it. That means: No parking in driveways 🚫 No stopping in front of red curbs or fire hydrants 🚒 Utilize Cross walks 🚸 Want to make the drop-off/pick-up dance easier? Try these pro tips: Take advantage of the city’s free bus program 🚌 Check out Luma Go for safe, convenient rides Park a few blocks away and walk the last quarter mile- it’s good for you, your kids, and our community Let’s keep our kids safe, our neighbors happy, and our streets smooth. Remember: helmets on, smiles up, and watch for each other out there! High School Happenings A-G Demystified Our goal as a district is simple: to keep as many doors open for students as possible. Whether a student chooses a trade or technical program, a four-year college, community college, direct employment, a gap year, or another pathway altogether, we want them to graduate prepared for an ever-changing world. With this in mind, last year we updated our graduation requirements to expand access to career technical education pathways, electives, and advanced coursework, while still ensuring students have the opportunity to be college eligible at graduation. These updates are about flexibility, opportunity, and choice, so every student can move forward with confidence into whatever future they choose. As part of this work, families may hear about A-G requirements and wonder what they mean. A-G is simply a sequence of high school courses that keeps students eligible for California public universities, and it aligns closely with strong academic preparation overall. To help demystify this process, our district uses the California College Guidance Initiative (CCGI) platform. CCGI allows students and parents to track graduation progress, explore post-secondary options, and plan courses clearly and transparently. When students follow the courses outlined for them, they can graduate with more options, college eligibility included and the freedom to choose the path that fits them best. College & Career Corner February is CTE Month! Career Technical Education (CTE) programs are designed to blend academic knowledge with technical skills, preparing students for both college and the ever-evolving job market. Whether it's Sustainable Agriculture, Design & Media Arts, or careers in Healthcare, our diverse pathways offer hands-on experiences that bring learning to life. With CTE, students don’t just explore their interests—they build the skills to turn those interests into real opportunities.  CTE is also proven to:  increase outcomes for communities with barriers to equal opportunity, empowering all learners to make informed decisions about their future.  increase academic success, including increased engagement, challenge, and well-being. close the education and skills gap, establish cradle-to-career pipelines, and meet local workforce needs. Check out PCS CTE Pathways! THANK YOU TO OUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS! JOIN THE TEAM! Stay Connected! Victor Hughes, Work-Based Learning Coordinator 📧 Contact: vhughes@petk12.org Updates & Reminders Learn about Financial Aid! College is a big investment in the future. Thankfully, there are lots of options to help you pay for it. Get to know the kinds of financial aid available, like scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans. Learn how to apply for aid and choose the best financial aid package to meet your needs.   Attention Parents!  Have you registered your CaliforniaColleges.edu account yet? Easy instructions in (English) and (Spanish) ! Updates & Reminders FAFSA & CADAA priority deadline for state aid: Monday, March 2, 2026 Check out College & Career Pathways, Petaluma Promise, Work-Based Learning, and Career Technical Education webpages to learn more about what is new and exciting in PCS College & Career. Students! Need a work permit? CASA, PHS  PHS College & Career Center, CGHS College & Career Center Check back HERE regularly for student work-based learning opportunities! Thank you for reading! See you next month for more College & Career News & Updates! Local Events and Flyers Check-Out What's Happening in Our Community Join Our PCS Team! Apply Today! Check out this week's highlighted job opportunities below: Check out this week’s highlighted job opportunities below: Enrichment Specialist, Physical Education - Penngrove Bus Driver Trainee - Transportation Girls Tennis Coach - Casa Grande High School If you have any questions regarding any of our open positions, please contact our Human Resources Department at (707) 778-4795 or email hrinfo@petk12.org. View Job Openings

    Wednesday, Feb 11 2026

  • Our Commitment to Every Student and a Safe School Co...

    Dear PCS Community, Public schools are the foundation of our American democracy. At our core, it is our responsibility to ensure that we create environments where every single student, no matter their background, is welcomed, cared for, supported, and given opportunities to pursue their dreams and shape our collective future. This commitment is unwavering and our community is strongest when we stand together in support of our students, dedicated teachers, and staff. I continue to hold a deep faith in what public schools make possible for young people today and for the future we are building together. As we watch events unfold across the country, particularly in Minnesota, I want to speak directly to our families and staff:  Petaluma City Schools’ leaders, teachers, and staff will do everything in our power to keep our students safe.   I also want to reaffirm that  all students in our care have the legal right to attend school safely and without fear, regardless of immigration status.  As the California Supreme Court has stated, an immigrant student’s right to an equal educational opportunity is, “a vitally important right in our society.” These protections are clearly codified in California law to ensure educational access for all. In recent days, we have become aware of national calls for large scale protests, including work and school “shutdowns.” While we respect and uphold everyone’s right to express their political views, I want to urge caution around any actions that would keep students home from school or close schools. It is important for us all to consider the following: Schools are safe, stable environments where students learn, connect, and receive support from trusted adults. Approximately half of our 7,500 students rely on the free, nutritious breakfasts and lunches we provide each day. For students who may already feel vulnerable, including those from immigrant families, school is often the most predictable and secure place in their lives. When students are kept home, even for well-intentioned reasons, it directly reduces the resources available to serve our students. At a time when our schools need stability and unity, keeping students home in protest ultimately harms our local schools. I anticipate we will continue to see many calls to action in the weeks and months ahead. People should absolutely feel empowered and free to protest and make their voices heard. There are many meaningful ways to do so that do  not  involve disrupting the school day. I strongly encourage our community to keep schools out of protest efforts:  Protecting the school day protects our students. Thank you for your continued partnership, compassion, and trust. In moments like these, where events around the world can make us feel out of control, our community’s strength and unity is more important than ever. Here in Petaluma City Schools, our doors will remain open, as we continue to provide every student with a safe, supportive environment where they can grow and thrive. In partnership, Matthew Harris Superintendent Petaluma City Schools

    Thursday, Jan 29 2026

  • January 2026 Newsletter

    PCS Newsletter January 2026 Dear Petaluma City Schools Community, This week, we honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the National Day of Service, a powerful reminder that his legacy lives on through action. Dr. King’s vision calls us to ensure our schools are places where every student feels seen, valued, and reflected in their learning every day. It has been inspiring to see his legacy honored across so many of our school sites, and it reinforces an important truth: this work cannot be limited to a single day or month. A truly culturally relevant education is rooted in the community we build and the practices we engage in each and every day. As Petaluma Blacks for Community so beautifully states, “We celebrate Black history not as something separate, but as something that makes us all stronger. When we know one another’s stories, when we see each other fully, we build a community that is more connected, more welcoming, and more alive.” As we begin Black History Month, I encourage you to seek out opportunities to grow a community that is more connected, welcoming, and alive. Several community events you could explore with students include the Black History jazz concert, the Petaluma Museum exhibit opening, or a visit to the newly remodeled Petaluma Library to check out a book or participate in a Black History Month event. The daily choices we make are how meaningful change takes root. That same spirit of connection has been evident in the many questions, messages, and strong feelings shared following my recent letter about District funding challenges. The budget cuts we face are significant, and it is understandable that they inspire big opinions and passionate responses. Those reactions are not a weakness of our community—they are a reflection of how deeply Petaluma loves, believes in, and supports public education. While we must face these financial realities, we will continue to do so together. Thank you for the many ways you continue to show up for one another and for our schools. As James Baldwin reminds us, “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” May we continue to move forward together with courage, compassion, and hope. In partnership, Matthew Harris Mid-Winter Break: February 16th - 20th Each year our school district plans for emergency make-up days which are built into our school calendar and serve as a crucial tool for ensuring that our students receive the full amount of instructional time required by state and local regulations. While we strive to avoid disruptions to our school schedules, there are occasions when unforeseen events—such as severe weather, natural disasters, or public health emergencies—can lead to school closures. Whether it's a flood, a power outage, or other emergency situations, make-up days provide us with the flexibility to adjust the academic calendar, ensuring that students continue to receive the full educational experience they deserve. As a reminder, our most up to date school calendars, including the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years are always available on our PCS website.  Our after school partners Boys and Girls Club and Champions will offer fun mid-winter break camps from 2/18-2/20 for our elementary-aged PCS students. Please reach out to your school's afterschool director for more information. You can find their contact information here. Enrollment Season is Here! Priority Enrollment Closes February 13th Priority Enrollment is now OPEN for all elementary grades, TK–6th! Important note for current PCS families: If your child is already enrolled at a PCS school and you plan to continue at your current school next year, there is nothing you need to do at this time. Your child’s enrollment will automatically continue. Priority Enrollment is for: Families who are new to PCS, or Current PCS families who are requesting a change to a different PCS school or program ✨ Special note for TK families: Children turning four on or before September 1 are eligible to apply for TK. Here’s what you need to know: Priority Enrollment closes on February 13 Applications submitted by this date will receive priority preference for available slots Interested in learning more? We’re hosting school tours where you can explore our campuses, meet our amazing staff, and learn more about what makes PCS special. 👉 View and sign up for a tour 👉 Apply for Priority Enrollment Space is limited, so families are encouraged to apply by February 13. If you have questions, we’re happy to help—just reach out! Submit Your Application Today Jr. High Happenings 8th Grade Tours & Elective Selections Happening Now! As always, our junior highs are buzzing—and no, it’s not just the bells ringing. 🐝 Over the past two weeks, all 8th graders got a sneak peek at the future with tours of their local high schools, showing off everything that awaits next year: exciting CTE pathways, school rallies, athletics, a wider menu of electives, and so much more. Students also headed to Sonoma State University to learn about the Petaluma Promise, which offers guaranteed admission to Petaluma City Schools students who complete and pass the prescribed course sequence. It’s the perfect moment to remind students to keep all doors wide open—whether that path leads to college, junior college, a trade, the military, or somewhere uniquely their own. Wherever they go, we’re proud to say: start here, go anywhere. And a friendly nudge to our 6th grade families: if you haven’t submitted your junior high application yet, now’s the time! ⏰ Elective selections will be heading out next week, and we don’t want your student to miss out on the fun (or the choices). Have questions or need help? Reach out to your local junior high—they’ll be happy to help you get across the finish line! Community Happenings Sharing Community Reminders & Events Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) Help Your School Access Funding! The State of California partners with schools and health plans to make sure that students can get mental health and emotional wellbeing support in schools across the state. Schools already offer an array of mental health services to meet the needs of students; however, securing funding for these services can be a challenge. Under the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) Fee Schedule program, California’s health plans and insurers are now required to reimburse public schools (including K-12 school districts, colleges, and universities) for covered mental health services provided to students under the age of 26. State law prohibits health plans and insurers from passing any of the cost of these services on to families. This means that the health plans and insurers will pay for mental health services provided to your child in a school-linked setting and there WILL NOT be any out-of-pocket expenses (e.g., co-payments, deductibles) for you and your family. How Can You Help? In order to obtain this funding from the health plans and insurers, including the Medi-Cal program, your child’s school district must submit a claim for reimbursement to the health plan or insurer. Your child’s school may ask you for your health insurance information and/or may ask you to sign a consent form so they can bill the health plan. If your child is under 18, please sign the consent form and provide a copy of your child’s insurance card and/or the name of your child’s health insurance company, your child’s policy number, and the name of the parent or guardian that carries the health insurance coverage. Agreeing to provide this information to your child’s school WILL NOT result in any costs for services being passed onto you or your family. These services are completely free and receiving these services in school WILL NOT affect your child’s coverage under the health plan or insurer. What happens if I don’t want to provide this information? Your child will still receive no-cost mental health services at school. However, if you decide not to provide your child’s health insurance information, your school cannot access this critical source of funding for schools. If your child is eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, they are entitled to receive mental health services and supports pursuant to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). Your decision to provide (or not provide) your child’s health insurance information WILL NOT affect your child’s eligibility for these services. Questions? Please contact Victoria Meese, Student Services Secretary at vmeese@petk12.org Learn More Community Happenings Check-Out What's Happening in Our Community Join Our PCS Team! Apply Today! Check out this week's highlighted job opportunities below: Check out this week’s highlighted job opportunities below: Enrichment Specialist, Physical Education - Penngrove Bus Driver Trainee - Transportation Girls Tennis Coach - Casa Grande High School If you have any questions regarding any of our open positions, please contact our Human Resources Department at (707) 778-4795 or email hrinfo@petk12.org. View Job Openings

    Friday, Jan 23 2026

  • PCS Budget Update

    PCS Community, Happy New Year! I hope you all had a restful winter break and meaningful time with family, friends, and loved ones. Our schools sit at the heart of this community, and we know how deeply people care about the students, staff, and the programs they support. Because of that, conversations about school budgets are never just about numbers; they’re about values, priorities, and the future we’re building together. With that in mind, I want to share an update on the PCS budget advisory process and provide some broader context about what we’re seeing unfold in districts across our county and state. Keeping our community informed, especially when decisions are complex and emotions run high, is essential to maintaining trust and working together through challenging realities. In California, public school districts are funded in one of two main ways. Many districts are funded by the state through the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF). Other districts, known as “community-funded” or “Basic Aid” districts, receive sufficient local property tax revenue to fund their schools, and in those cases, their property tax revenues are higher than their district would receive under LCFF.  To illustrate why this matters, I will compare and contrast our funding versus a neighboring district in our county, Healdsburg Unified School District, which does qualify for community/ basic aid funding. Healdsburg receives approximately annually $40,000 per student to run its schools while Petaluma City Schools receives approximately $17,900 per student. Obviously, this is a significant difference of more than $22,000 per student. If we had this level of additional funding, we could implement smaller class sizes, expand programs, increase mental health support, provide more trusted adults on our campuses, and offer more competitive pay for our teachers and staff. This difference is due to state funding structures, not local priorities and illustrates the challenges PCS faces in providing the services our students deserve. This is one of the reasons why our School Board placed Measure I on the ballot this past fall. We know that strong schools equate to strong communities, and if it had passed, Measure I would have brought in approximately $3 million per year to support our students and programming. Despite having a large majority (64%) of voters support Measure I, it did not meet the two-thirds threshold of 67%. I want to thank the many community members, staff, and students who canvassed, made phone calls, had conversations with neighbors, and worked tirelessly to support Measure I. I remain deeply grateful for every person who stood up for our schools and our students. With that said, and in the words of author Jim Collins, we must now confront the brutal facts of our current reality. Across our county and throughout the nation, school districts are confronting significant budget shortfalls due to reductions in federal and state funding. Petaluma City Schools is not immune to these challenges. The financial pressures we face are real, and they require us to make difficult decisions to maintain the fiscal solvency of our District.  These reductions are not optional, nor are they a result of poor local planning.  They are a result of state and federal shortfalls and are necessary to ensure our schools can continue operating and serving every student.   Over the past few months, our Budget Advisory Committee, which represents a cross-section of our community, including teachers, site and district administrators, classified staff, and community members, met eight times and for many hours. These meetings were not easy or rushed; they reflected the care, debate, complexity, and seriousness that decisions of this magnitude deserve. Every member showed up with a deep commitment to doing what is best for our students, and I am truly grateful for their time, thoughtfulness, and service. The committee and I firmly believe that our schools should be gaining resources, not losing them. At a time when student needs are greater than ever, we know our schools require more trusted adults, stronger academic and mental health supports, and enriching opportunities that allow every student to thrive. Those beliefs have not changed. However, the current funding landscape compels us to make difficult, fiscally responsible decisions, not because our commitment has wavered, but because we must responsibly navigate the financial constraints before us. On Tuesday, and as much as it pains me, I will be bringing forward the Budget Advisory Committee’s recommendation to the PCS Board of Education to reduce next year’s $138 million budget by approximately $6 million.  $6 million in recommended reductions: Remaining One-Time Pandemic Funded Positions: $2,141,000 Restructure Alternative Education: $663,000 Reduce Funding for Site Funds, Field Trips, and Athletics: $500,000 Restructure Seven-Period Bell Schedule: $300,000 Reduce Maintenance and Operations: $400,000 Eliminate Contributions to our Parcel Tax: $1,228,000 Other Considerations (smaller adjustments across departments): $791,000 Many understandably ask, “Didn’t we just pass a large bond?” While PCS has a $219 million voter-approved bond, those funds are legally restricted to facilities and infrastructure, such as facility upgrades and new buildings, and cannot be used for staffing, programs, or day-to-day operations.  Even in these challenging times, I remain hopeful. Our schools are filled with talented educators, dedicated staff, resilient students, and a community that deeply values public education. It is this collective strength that will carry us forward. We will continue to give our all to support every student and provide an excellent education, and our unwavering commitment to their success will be at the center of every decision we make.  In partnership, Matthew Harris Superintendent Petaluma City Schools

    Saturday, Jan 10 2026