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  • 🎓 Final PCS Newsletter of 2024-25 School Year! 🎓

    PCS Newsletter June 13, 2025 Happy Summer, PCS! We had an incredible time celebrating so many milestones with you during the last couple weeks of the 2024-25 school year. Congrats to the Class of 2025! Keep an eye on our social media channels for more graduation highlights and senior spotlights coming throughout the summer. We are wishing you all a summer filled with joy, connection, and rejuvenation. See you soon! PCS Students in Florida for US Rowing Youth National Championships This week, PCS has 9 student rowers competing for a national title. In the U16 women coxed quad is Theia L. (Cherry Valley) coxed by Connor G. (Casa Grande). Competing in the U16 Mens coxed Quad is Emory D., Garrett G. (Casa Grande) Owen K. (Cherry Valley) Owen W. (Petaluma) coxed by Mae S. (Petaluma). Competing in the U17 double is Elliot S. (Petaluma). Competing in the Youth Women’s single is Lucy C. (Petaluma). Lucy shared, "Rowing has taught me endless skills, but there are definitely two important ones. First, the resilience I've learned when powering through a hard practice or after a tough race. That's a skill used throughout my life for sure. Maybe more importantly, I've learned leadership and how to step up when the team needs it. Being the team captain and also just an older athlete on the team has shown me how far a little courage and accountability can go to lead the way for younger kids when resilience, dedication, or kindness is needed." These PCS student athletes are members of NorthBay Rowing Club and we are so proud of them! Good luck this week!   PCS Food & Nutrition “If you knew what I know about the power of giving, you would not let a single meal pass without sharing it in some way.” - Buddha In last month’s PCS newsletter, we outlined how families can find free meals over the summer months. As a reminder, here are four easy ways to find a summer meal site close to you: Call: Dial 1-866-3-HUNGRY (1-866-348-6479) to find meal locations over the phone. Text: Text the word "Summer" to 914-342-7744 to receive information about nearby sites. Online: Click on this link to the USDA's Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder.  Download the CA Meals for Kids App: Available on iOS, Android, and Microsoft devices, this app helps you find local meal sites. In addition, the PCS Food Services team is proud to provide free nutritious meals for youth 18 and under at our Casa Grande High School cafeteria (333 Casa Grande Rd, Petaluma, CA 94954 beginning on June 20th. No paperwork or registration required.  Breakfast will be served each day from 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM and lunch will be offered between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM from Friday, June 20th through Friday, July 18th (except for weekends and holidays).  We're committed to helping children in our community have access to the nourishment they need to grow, play, and stay healthy when school is out. For more information about our summer meal program at Casa Grande High School, please contact a member of the PCS Food Services Team for assistance in English or Spanish by calling (707) 200-7938 or email us at pcsfood@petk12.org.  College & Career Corner Happy Summer & Congrats Once Again to the Class of 2025! It's been a fantastic year for College & Career Pathways and Work-Based Learning (WBL) in Petaluma City Schools. Check out the new College & Career Pathways, Petaluma Promise, Work-Based Learning, and Career Technical Education webpages to learn more about what is new and exciting in the pathways world. In this edition, enjoy a look at our WBL data this year, CalforniaColleges.edu reminders, and more! Thank you all for your partnership and support as we work together to enhance career-connected learning for our students. Petaluma High Seniors Build Their Futures with North Bay Construction Corps Three Petaluma High School seniors Noel, Cris, and Miguel, recently completed the competitive, hands-on training program offered by the North Bay Construction Corps. This 3-month Saturday program prepares graduating seniors for careers in the trades, helping them build resumes, sharpen interview skills, and explore paths like construction management, landscaping, and the electrical field. All three students praised the program’s supportive instructors, real-world learning, and valuable certifications like CPR and financial literacy. North Bay Construction Corps connects students with professionals across Sonoma County and provides them with essential tools and safety gear. The students first heard about the opportunity through the Ms. Dodsworth at the Petaluma High School College & Career Center. The three PHS graduates want to encourage others to make as many connections as possible and get involved during high school. They are grateful for being selected into this competitive program and are looking forward to making a difference in our community. Class of 2025 Grads Earn Sonoma Corps Paid Internships! Ivan Rodriguez, a Casa Grande graduate, will be interning with SMART Train. Ivan had his sights set on working for SMART Train since January of this year, making sure to introduce himself to Lisa Hansley of SMART Train each time she visited campus. Ivan has officially been hired and is planning on working for SMART Train while attending the Santa Rosa Junior College.  Taylor Smethers, a Casa Grande graduate, will begin her internship with Hansel Automotive this Summer. Hansel was the most competitive internship offered, with all interview slots filled. Taylor will be working at Hansel Auto while she attends classes at the Santa Rosa Junior College.  What is Sonoma Corps? Sonoma Corps is brought to PCS by the CTE Foundation of Sonoma County is an award-winning college and career readiness program designed to help high school seniors build a foundation for a successful future.  Sonoma Corps students are enrolled in a Career Exploration and Development course at Casa Grande High School during their senior year in high school to build employability skills, explore career pathways, visit local facilities, dive into hands-on projects, and network with local employers, and develop strong resume and interview skills. CTE Foundation of Sonoma County provides the connections between the high school program and industry experts, experiences designed to inform students as they make decisions about their future careers and enhance their overall employability.  At the end of senior year, participants can apply for internships with Sonoma Corps Employer Partners. Following graduation, participants are hired into a 3- to 12-month paid internship with a local employer. The internship is designed to offer participants gainful employment, and they are also eligible to earn valuable work experience credit from Santa Rosa Junior College, apply for scholarship funds and gain access to other financial aid resources. Maggie Steiner, CGHS Teacher who leads the program shared, "The success of the Sonoma Corps program is due to collaborative effort between the CTE Foundation, local Sonoma county businesses and Petaluma City Schools. I loved seeing students enjoy field trips to local businesses, participating in mock interviews and seeing their confidence in themselves grow throughout the semester." Congrats to Class of 2025 Sonoma Corps Interns! SMART Train - Ivan Rodriguez Sonoma Clean Power - Briseida Montoya Gomez Sonoma Clean Power - Edna Roque Medic Ambulance - Calah Harrington Community First CU - Tom Mannion Santa Rosa Police Department - Isabella Duenas Hansel Automotive (Petaluma) - Taylor Smethers Hansel Automotive (Santa Rosa) - Michael Arend North Bay Children's Center - Elizabeth Atwood Preferred Sonoma Caterers - Karina Ochoa Keysight Technologies - Evan Vadnais Keysight Technologies - Jonathan Martinez Keysight Technologies  - Christopher Amaya The Career Technical Education (CTE) Foundation’s mission is to innovate the education-to-career experience to strengthen student success. To help Sonoma County high schools and colleges prepare their students for satisfying, well-compensated and successful future employment, CTE Foundation helps connect classrooms (teachers and students) with relevant industry opportunities for work-based learning. Since its inception, CTE Foundation has touched the lives of thousands of students, supported the innovation of 132 new or enhanced CTE programs countywide, introduced career exploration programs at the middle school level and developed regional training opportunities for students that provide both high school and college credit. More information available at www.ctesonomacount What's New in the World of Work-Based Learning? Thank You to Our Industry Partners We are so grateful to work in a community that supports our students with high-quality work-based learning opportunities across the spectrum of business and industry.  PCS thanks you for ALL of your phenomenal time, expertise, and engagement - evidenced by the remarkable data featured below. From Guest Speakers, to Field Trips, to Internships, Job Shadows, Resume Workshops, Mock Interviews, and so much more - we are stronger together! If you haven't yet, please consider JOINING THE TEAM! Stay Connected!  Victor Hughes, Work-Based Learning Coordinator 📧 Contact: vhughes@petk12.org What An Opportunity! PCS Junior Bella Elliot and seven other “Food Service & Hospitality” students had an incredible field trip to the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn! 🍽️✨ They teamed up with Executive Pastry Chef Mel to craft their own puff pastries 🥐 and toured departments across the hotel to get a behind-the-scenes look at careers in the hospitality industry. Big thanks to the Fairmont team for the unforgettable hands-on experience! High School Summer Internships CaliforniaColleges.edu - Your Best Friend in College & Career Planning Petaluma City Schools, in partnership with California College Guidance Initiative (CCGI), uses www.CaliforniaColleges.edu for early College and Career planning. This awesome platform is a one-stop website for all students to plan ahead in detail for College and Career goal-setting. This website is completely FREE from the State of California, and offers the following: Check out the full list of Parent Tools available here:  https://cacollegeguidance.org/learnmore/tools-for-parents/ Attention Parents! Have you registered your account yet?  Go HERE for easy instructions! Updates & Reminders 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!   Join the PCS Team! View Job Openings Check out this week's highlighted job opportunities below: Health Assistant - Petaluma Junior High School Instructional Assistant, Special Education (Full Inclusion) - Petaluma High School Assistant Principal/TOSA Pedagogical Specialist - Valley Vista Public Waldorf School RSP Teacher, Special Education (1.0 FTE) - 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.

    Saturday, Jun 14 2025

  • 👀 Looking for Citizens' Oversight Committee Members!...

    NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS! Petaluma City Schools has open seats on our Citizens’ Oversight Committee and we’re looking for passionate community members to get involved! We are looking for the following representatives: Senior Citizen Representative High School PTA/Site Council Representative Taxpayers Organization Representative High School Parent/Guardian Representative   Help support our community in how bond & parcel tax funds are used! If you are interested, reach out to Yuliana Gonzalez.  707-778-4621   ygonzalez@petk12.org

    Wednesday, May 21 2025

  • PCS Newsletter - May 16, 2025

    PCS Newsletter May 16, 2025 A Message from Acting Superintendent, Dr. Louann Carlomagno Dear PCS Community, As we step into the final weeks of the school year, the energy and excitement across our campuses is unmistakable. May is always a bustling month and this year is no exception. With open houses, state testing, field days, final projects, field trips, class celebrations, and so much more, our schools are filled with meaningful experiences that highlight student growth and community connection. This month, we also take time to recognize and celebrate the incredible people who make our schools thrive. During Teacher Appreciation Week and Classified Staff Appreciation Week, we honor the dedication, talent, and heart that every member of our team brings to their work. Whether in the classroom, the front office, the cafeteria, or on our campuses in countless support roles, our educators play a vital role in helping students learn, grow, and succeed. To all of our teachers and classified staff: THANK YOU! Your impact is powerful, and your commitment does not go unnoticed. With less than a month to go, let’s finish the year strong. I encourage our students, families, and staff to stay focused and energized. This final stretch is full of opportunities to celebrate achievements, reflect on progress, and prepare for what comes next. Wishing you a joyful and successful conclusion to the school year. Let’s keep the momentum going! With appreciation, Louann College & Career Corner May is a Month of Celebration! Among so many celebrations for the Class of 2025, we want to highlight a special recognition of the 169 Seniors who completed a CTE pathway, including 92 from Casa Grande, and 77 from Petaluma High. In addition, we also have 22 Seniors who have completed TWO pathways! Please join us in celebrating this awesome accomplishment. New this year, Senior CTE Pathway completers will be awarded a certification and custom stole to wear during graduation ceremonies. What does it mean to be a CTE pathway "completer"? With less than a month of school left, we are all thinking about Summer! And what better time of the year than to explore College and Careers! Enjoy the summer WBL features below, and when you have a moment check out the new Future of Jobs Report 2025 from the World Economic Forum. As we look ahead to the near future and to help inform our pathway program design, we take reports like this seriously. Our world is changing fast, and we are excited to partner with all students, staff, and families to meet the need. Enjoy! What's New in the World of Work-Based Learning? We are very excited to showcase a few opportunities that are new to PCS and represent the level of commitment to career-connected learning and pathway development that PCS is all about: Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Program for Juniors and Seniors!  Through a generous Strong Workforce Program grant, we are able to offer a free summer program to 20 PCS students. We are very grateful to Petaluma Valley Hospital and Hillcrest Post Acute for hosting the program, and to Fox Pacific Academy for facilitating. Once students complete the program and pass the state test, they will be instantly employable and well on their way in their Health Careers. Stay tuned for more updates for this pathway as we work to expand certification opportunities for our students! X2nSat Meanwhile, 3 Petaluma High students have been selected for a hands-on internship with local Satellite and networking company X2nSat, where they will rotate through different departments and explore careers in tech! Rebuilding Together Petaluma We’re in the final stages of launching an exciting community partnership between Petaluma City Schools, Rebuilding Together Petaluma, and the Sunrise Rotary Club. This collaborative effort will give 10–12 students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the trades by restoring homes for some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Students will learn essential skills in carpentry and construction while making a real impact—improving the safety and quality of low-income housing right here in Petaluma. Updates & Reminders Students - how do you get a work permit? CASA, PHS  Check out the new College & Career Pathways, Petaluma Promise, Work-Based Learning, and Career Technical Education webpages Parents/Guardians - still need to register your free account on CaliforniaColleges.edu? Go HERE for easy instructions PHS College & Career Center, CGHS College & Career Center Check back HERE regularly for student work-based learning opportunities! THANK YOU TO OUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS! JOIN THE TEAM and stay connected! Contact Victor Hughes, Work-Based Learning Coordinator 📧 Contact: vhughes@petk12.org Congrats Magaly! Our PCS Employees Shine Congratulations to PCS employee Magaly Alcala Trujillo! Magaly recently passed all of her exams and earned her High School Equivalency! Magaly works as a custodian with PCS and recently represented Petaluma Adult School at a school board presentation. Over the past few years, she has dedicated herself to studying English and High School Equivalency with Petaluma Adult School. Now, she plans to continue her education and pursue a career as an early childhood educator. Great work and best wishes to Magaly! PCS Food & Nutrition FREE SUMMER MEALS! “And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees…I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby As the school year winds down and summer break quickly approaches, we want to remind all members of our PCS community that nutritious meals will still be available during the summer months for all kids and teens 18 and under, free of charge! We understand that access to healthy food is important year-round, and our district is proud to participate in the Summer Meal Program. This means that even when school is not in session, children and teenagers in our community can continue to have access to healthy meals. Look out for more information in the coming weeks about specific locations and times where summer meals will be served in our District.  In the meantime, here are four easy ways to find a summer meal site near you: Call: Dial 1-866-3-HUNGRY (1-866-348-6479) to find meal locations over the phone. Text: Text the word "Summer" to 914-342-7744 to receive information about nearby sites. Online: Click on this link to the USDA's Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder.  Download the CA Meals for Kids App: Available on iOS, Android, and Microsoft devices, this app helps you find local meal sites. No enrollment, registration, identification, application or proof of residency is required for youth 18 and under to access a free, nutritious meal.  We're committed to helping our students have access to the nourishment they need throughout the summer so they can enjoy their break and thrive. For more information about access to free summer meals, please visit our Food Services Department website. This May We Recognize & Honor: Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. First designated by Congress in 1977, AAPI Heritage Month is an annual celebration of the ways the AAPI community has enriched America's history and continues to be vital to its success. The AAPI experience is as rich and diverse as the constellation of cultures it represents. The term AAPI encompasses nearly 50 ethnic groups from East and Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and the Pacific Islands and their diasporas—speaking more than 100 languages in addition to English. While united under one term, each group has its own unique history, traditions, and identity. We invite you and your children to explore a virtual resource library featuring historical figures, art, stories, and more that celebrate the rich diversity and impact of the AAPI community. The Sonoma County Library is another great resource for events, book lists, movies, music, and more. Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) Each May, we celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month, honoring over 350 years of Jewish contributions to American life, culture, and history. It’s a time to recognize the rich traditions, resilience, and achievements of Jewish Americans, both past and present, and to foster conversations about identity, inclusion, and belonging. Explore the lives of notable Jewish Americans who have helped shape our nation, and dive into our interactive Virtual Resource Room—filled with read-alouds, videos, and engaging content about Jewish holidays, traditional foods, impactful inventions, and more. Click on any item to learn something new or visit the Sonoma County Library’s offerings on Jewish American Heritage Month. May is Mental Health Awareness Month At Petaluma City Schools, we believe that mental health is vital throughout the year. However, May offers a special chance to come together for Mental Health Awareness Month. It's a valuable opportunity to deepen our understanding, help break down the stigma often associated with mental health challenges, and open up crucial dialogues. This month, let's all commit to checking in with ourselves, discovering new ways to nurture our own mental health, and strengthening our capacity to support the well-being of those around us.  In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’ve included below a variety of resources focused on mental health—particularly anxiety in children and teens. These tools are designed to help deepen understanding and spark productive dialogue. Please remember: While these resources offer valuable information, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. For any specific concerns or questions regarding mental health, please always consult with a qualified mental health provider.  La Salud Mental  La Salud Mental es un sitio web que ofrece información basada en evidencias sobre salud mental y trastornos por consumo de sustancias para las comunidades hispanohablantes de los Estados Unidos. 💻 Webinar Recording for Parents/Guardians Mental Health On Purpose: Teaching Young People Skills As They Step into Their Future Hosted by Challenge Success featuring Lynn Lyons An excellent presentation on childhood anxiety and how caregivers can help. You’ll walk away with practical strategies you can use right away. 📖 Article (Read or Listen): What to Do (and Not Do) When Children Are Anxious By Clark Goldstein, PhD, via the Child Mind Institute 🎧 Podcast: How To Talk To Kids About Anything with Dr. Robyn Silverman Episode: Talking to Girls about Anxiety, Depression, and Social Media with Donna Nakazawa (9/20/22) 📚 Interactive Bookshelf: Explore our Mental Health Read-Aloud Virtual Library—a curated selection of picture books with video read-alouds for young children. Join the PCS Team! Where education is not just what we do. It's who we are. Are you passionate about making a difference in students' lives? At PCS, education is at the heart of everything we do—and who we are. Join a dedicated team of professionals committed to excellence, innovation, and lifelong learning. Whether you're in the classroom in front of students or behind the scenes making our schools run smoothly, your work matters. Come be part of something meaningful. Come work at PCS. Apply today and help shape the future. Check out this week’s highlighted job opportunities below: Student Advisor (0.5 FTE) - Casa Grande High School Library Media Technology Assistant (Secondary), 1.0 FTE - Petaluma High School Coordinator, College and Career Pathways - Educational Services Elementary Teacher, 1.0 FTE - McDowell Elementary 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   Community Happenings Sharing Community Reminders & Events Register for i9 Sports This Summer! Breakfast & Lunch Menus Our PCS Menus are ready for your viewing pleasure!   Follow Us! We enjoy sharing magical moments with our community to give our followers a glimpse of what we're all about. At PCS, education is not just what we do, it's who we are. We're here! Be here with us! You can find us on Instagram or Facebook.

    Friday, May 16 2025

  • Urgent: Chromebook Vandalism and Safety Concern

    This message is being sent to all PCS families as an FYI even though we know it does not apply to most elementary sites. We feel the information below is important for families to be aware of and allows for a reminder to have conversations with your students.  Dear PCS Families and Students, We are seeing an increase in incidents involving intentional damage to district-issued Chromebooks. Disturbingly, some of these actions appear to be linked to a dangerous trend circulating on TikTok, where students insert metal objects—such as paper clips, foil, or LED wires—into USB ports. This behavior is intended to cause electrical shorts, and in some cases, it can result in sparks, smoke, or even fire. This is extremely unsafe and poses a serious risk to student safety, school property, and classroom learning. Any student found to have deliberately damaged or tampered with their Chromebook in this way will be held financially responsible for the full cost of repair or replacement, up to $350.  Intentionally damaged Chromebooks are not covered by insurance. In addition, students will face disciplinary consequences in accordance with California Education Code 48900(f), which prohibits causing or attempting to cause damage to school property. We are investigating all reported instances and will contact families as needed.  This behavior must stop immediately . Students aware of others engaging in this behavior should report it to a trusted adult or administrator immediately. We urge all families to speak with their students about the dangers and seriousness of this issue. Additionally, we encourage all parents to take this opportunity to talk with your children about the influence of social media. While platforms like TikTok can be creative and fun, they can also promote harmful or misleading trends that encourage risky or damaging behavior. Your involvement, asking questions, staying engaged, and setting boundaries play a crucial role in helping students navigate these spaces safely and responsibly. Thank you for your continued partnership in maintaining a safe and respectful school environment . With appreciation, Esmeralda Sanchez Moseley Assistant Superintendent, Student Services

    Friday, May 09 2025

  • 🏆 PCS Newsletter April 25, 2025 🏆

    PCS Newsletter April 25, 2025 A Message from Acting Superintendent, Dr. Louann Carlomagno Dear PCS Community, Spring is in full bloom, and with it comes a season of celebration across our District. I’m thrilled to share just a few of the remarkable achievements and upcoming events that showcase the talent, hard work, and heart of our students, staff, and community. We are honored to announce that several of our schools have been recognized with the prestigious Green Ribbon School Awards, highlighting our district’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. McNear Elementary earned the title of Green Achiever—the highest honor given by the state and the only public school to receive this award! Mary Collins at Cherry Valley received a Silver Award for its leadership in sustainability education, campus greening, and empowering students as environmental stewards. At the district level, Petaluma City Schools was honored with a Bronze Award for our continued efforts to integrate environmental practices and create sustainable school environments across all campuses.  Creativity is also taking center stage as we prepare for the District Art Show, where student artists from every grade level will showcase their inspiring work. I invite you to join us on Wednesday, May 7th from 5:00 - 7:30 PM at the Lucchesi Center as we celebrate the imagination and expression of our young creators. This event is especially touching as it showcases the incredible learning opportunities for our students. From robotics demonstrations, to culinary tasting, to music, theater, and dance, the PCS Art Show has something for everyone. In another proud moment, the PEF (Petaluma Educational Foundation) Scholarship Night was a resounding success—our students were awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships thanks to the generosity of our community partners and the perseverance of our seniors. Their future is bright, and these recognitions are so well-deserved. We’d like to thank PEF for their ongoing support of our PCS students.  And that’s just the beginning. From academic milestones to performances and community events, our schools continue to shine thanks to the passion and dedication of everyone involved. Thank you for your continued support—let’s finish the year strong, together! With gratitude, Louann PCS in the News Assemblymember Damon Connolly welcomes Casa Grande Seniors to the State Capitol Petaluma’s McNear Elementary awarded state’s rare Green Achiever honor Valley Oaks students make care packages for Petaluma’s homeless ‘A place of possibility’: Hundreds of Sonoma County students present STEAM projects at annual showcase Newly merged Petaluma school gets new principal The Bantam Broadcast (PJHS) Kenilworth TV (KJHS) The Trojan Broadcast Channel (PHS) Student & Family Engagement Health Careers Pathway Students Visit SSU This week, 63 students in our Health Career Pathways at Casa Grande High and Petaluma High toured the Nursing and Kinesiology programs at Sonoma State University to learn about pathway options in the health field. Students enjoyed a meal in the Kitchens, learned about the Petaluma Promise, and explored new possibilities. Thank you SSU for your partnership and Go Trojans, Gauchos, and Seawolves! An Egg-stra Special Day at McDowell Elementary The kindergarten & 1st-grade students at McDowell Elementary worked in small groups last Friday, having a blast as they moved through four fun activities: Learning about the chicken life cycle 🐣 Dyeing colorful eggs 🎨  A sight word egg hunt 🔍 Decorating cookies 🍪 Smiles, learning, and lots of fun all around! So proud of our egg-cellent little learners! Art in the Quad Brings Creativity to Life This week, students at Mary Collins at Cherry Valley brought the campus to life during Art in the Quad. From stained glass scribble art and aluminum foil sculptures to sharpie tie-dye creations, the day was filled with hands-on exploration and vibrant creativity. A standout moment for many was contributing to a collaborative, school-wide art installation—painting colorful designs on six-foot panels proudly displayed on the grassy field. The energy, excitement, and artistic expression on display made Art in the Quad a truly unforgettable experience! Celebrating Our Outstanding PCS Staff Petaluma City Schools is proud to recognize several exceptional staff members who have recently been honored for their dedication and impact. At the Classified School Employee of the Year Recognition Program held Wednesday night at the Sonoma County Office of Education, PCS was represented by three outstanding classified employees who were selected as nominees and finalists—an impressive showing of the talent and heart within our schools.  Angie Sideris, Student Advisor at Valley Vista Julie Lyons, School Nutrition Professional at Penngrove Donnie Frank, Library Coordinator at McNear In addition, we are thrilled to share that one of our longtime classified staff members, Alyse Breece, was awarded Honorable Mention in the Mentorship category of the 2025 Sonoma County Arts Educator of the Year Awards, presented by Creative Sonoma and the Luther Burbank Center. This honor highlights the incredible impact of our Art Docent Program, which has inspired thousands of students and volunteers for over 30 years. We are grateful for the dedication, mentorship, and creativity these individuals bring to our district every day. PCS Food & Nutrition “Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” ― Voltaire Mark Your Calendars: May 2nd! On Friday, May 2, we invite all PCS families, staff, and students to join us in celebrating School Food Hero Day! This is a special opportunity to recognize the incredible efforts of our school nutrition teams who work tirelessly every day to keep our students nourished, energized, and ready to learn. Our food service staff do more than prepare meals — they greet students with smiles, support wellness initiatives, and play a vital role in creating a positive school environment. Whether it’s serving up a warm meal on a chilly day or simply offering a kind word of encouragement, their work makes a difference in the lives of our students and families. Please help us show appreciation! A simple “thank you,” a student-made card, or a kind note can mean the world to our food heroes. If you see a cafeteria staff member, please take a moment to let them know how much they are valued. Let’s come together to celebrate and uplift the people who keep our students thriving. Happy School Food Hero Day! College & Career Corner Next Week is Workplace Readiness Week! The week of April 28th marks the 2nd Annual Workplace Readiness Week. Check out the Information Sheet (English, Spanish) that goes with every Work Permit. Passage of AB 800 Ortega (2023) produced new Education Code 49110.5 which requires that beginning August 1, 2024, every minor submitting a Statement of Intent to Employ a Minor and Request for a Work Permit-Certificate of Age (B1-1) must be given a hardcopy of the labor rights Information Sheet (English, Spanish) based on the topics in the new law.  Additional Resources Are You a Working Teen? Fact Sheet - (English, Spanish) Tips for Parents of Working Teens (English, Spanish) FAQs How do I get a work permit? CASA, PHS  What is the minimum wage in Petaluma? Updates & Reminders Check out the new College & Career Pathways, Petaluma Promise, Work-Based Learning, and Career Technical Education webpages! Parents/Guardians - still need to register your free account on CaliforniaColleges.edu? Go HERE for easy instructions! Seniors! Check your CalKids Account for $$$! PHS College & Career Center, CGHS College & Career Center Celebrating Arab American Heritage Month! Join us in celebrating National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM), a time to honor the rich culture, history, and contributions of Arab Americans. From science and literature to the arts and public service, Arab Americans have helped shape our communities and our country in meaningful ways.  This month is an opportunity for students and families to learn more about Arab American identities, traditions, and stories, and to continue building a culture of inclusion, curiosity, and respect across PCS. We invite you to explore this interactive virtual library, where every image is clickable and each item opens a fun, educational resource about Arab culture. Click the soccer ball to meet Egypt’s top players, the dessert platter to discover sweet treats from Dubai, and so much more. Enjoy clicking around and learning something new! Join the PCS Team Where education is not just what we do. It’s who we are. View Job Openings Are you passionate about making a difference in students' lives? At PCS, education is at the heart of everything we do—and who we are. Join a dedicated team of professionals committed to excellence, innovation, and lifelong learning. Whether you're in the classroom in front of students or behind the scenes making our schools run smoothly, your work matters. Come be part of something meaningful. Come work at PCS. Apply today and help shape the future. Check out this week’s highlighted job opportunities below: Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA), 0.5 FTE - South County Consortium Teacher, 7th & 8th Grade (1.0 FTE) - Mary Collins at Cherry Valley Bus Driver Trainee - Transportation Student Advisor (0.5 FTE) - 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. Breakfast and Lunch Menus Our PCS Menus are ready for your viewing pleasure! Follow Us! We enjoy sharing magical moments with our community to give our followers a glimpse of what we're all about. At PCS, education is not just what we do, it's who we are. We're here! Be here with us! You can find us on Instagram or Facebook.

    Friday, Apr 25 2025

  • 🌿 Petaluma City Schools Celebrates Statewide Green R...

    We’re thrilled to share some  incredible news —Petaluma City Schools has been recognized by the California Department of Education with  multiple California Green Ribbon Schools Awards  for our commitment to sustainability, student and staff wellness, and environmental education! 🏆  McNear Elementary  earned the title of  Green Achiever — the highest honor  given by the state and the  only  elementary school to receive this award in 2025! McNear’s strong focus on outdoor learning, eco-literacy, and health and wellness is inspiring. 🥈  Mary Collins at Cherry Valley  received a  Silver Award  for its leadership in sustainability education, campus greening, and empowering students as environmental stewards. 🥉 At the district level,  Petaluma City Schools  was honored with a  Bronze Award  for our continued efforts to integrate environmental practices and create sustainable school environments across all campuses.  “These awards reflect our schools’ dedication to creating healthy, sustainable spaces where students thrive—academically, physically, and socially,” said Acting Superintendent Louann Carlomagno. “We’re incredibly proud of our educators, students, and community partners for championing this important work.” These recognitions align beautifully with our district’s core values: Equity and Excellence  – Providing every student access to a high-quality, inclusive education Community Engagement  – Partnering with families and the broader community to support learning Sustainability and Wellness  – Prioritizing safe, caring environments that promote health and environmental stewardship From school gardens and outdoor classrooms to student-led sustainability projects and wellness initiatives, our District continues to lead the way toward a healthier, greener future. You can read the full press release from the State of California  here . 💚 Thank you to our dedicated staff, engaged families, and amazing students who make this work possible. We’re #PCSProud!

    Thursday, Apr 24 2025

  • Wishing Our PCS Families A Wonderful Spring Break!

    Dear PCS Families, As we prepare for our PCS families to be on Spring Break and celebrate with those who already are (Penngrove and Cherry Valley!) I want to take a moment to let you know how impressed I have been with all the teaching and learning happening in Petaluma City Schools. As a fifteenth year veteran superintendent, I have had the honor of visiting hundreds of classrooms and meeting so many wonderful and inquisitive learners. I see the joy in the faces of our students along with the absolute dedication of our educators - I am so very happy to be a member of this learning community.  I wish you all a wonderful Spring Break filled with doing the things that make you and your family happy. We look forward to your return to our campuses on Monday, April 14th.  With a grateful heart, Louann See you Monday, April 14th!

    Friday, Apr 04 2025

  • Parent Ed Night: The Vape Escape - April 16th @ 6:00 PM

    Childcare provided & translation available! Petaluma City Schools invites you to join us as we partner with  Panaptic  to support our teens in making healthy choices about tobacco, cannabis, and vaping. In this workshop, Dr. Richard Von Feldt will offer families, adult allies, and community members the opportunity to review information surrounding tobacco, cannabis, and vaping as well as the impact use can have on young people’s health, mental health and wellness, and life outcomes. Participants will explore cutting-edge research, discuss strategies for helpful prevention conversations with teens, and engage in Q & A with the presenters.  Richard Von Feldt, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist specializing in addiction in the San Francisco Bay Area. Since 2009, he has treated adolescents and adults with substance abuse disorders at The Permanente Medical Group while also training future psychologists. As the former Training Director for Kaiser Santa Rosa’s Postdoctoral Residency and Internship Programs, he shaped the next generation of clinicians. A national leader in substance abuse education, Dr. Von Feldt has trained healthcare professionals nationwide through Panaptic. With 33 years in recovery himself, he brings both expertise and personal insight to his mission of prevention and healing.

    Thursday, Apr 03 2025

  • FREE Senior Portraits THIS Weekend!

    Are you a PCS senior who is low on time and low on funds?! We have a fun opportunity for you to capture the memory of your senior year for  FREE ! A local photographer wants to make sure all PCS seniors have the opportunity to take senior portraits. If you're in the mood for a little photo shoot this weekend, email Bree Weaver bweaver@petk12.org to pick a time slot or respond to this message and we'll sign you up for free. Thanks seniors! We think you're awesome!

    Wednesday, Mar 12 2025

  • 📢 Reminder 📢 No School: Monday, March 10th (With the...

    Kenilworth Junior High School will be in session Monday, March 10th. Students will be dismissed at 11:50 AM. The following message pertains to all other PCS schools.

    Friday, Mar 07 2025