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  • 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

  • 🎉 Priority Enrollment Is OPEN — Don’t Miss Out!

    Priority Enrollment Now Open for Elementary Families Apply before February 13th! Dear PCS Families, The wait is over—and we’re excited to share some big news! 🎉 Priority Enrollment is officially OPEN for all elementary grades, TK–6th! Families may apply for any grade from Transitional Kindergarten through 6th grade. ✨ 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 Want to see PCS in action? We’re currently hosting school tours where you can explore our campuses, meet our amazing staff, and learn more about what makes our programs special. 👉 View and sign up for a tour 👉 Apply for Priority Enrollment Space is limited, so we encourage families to apply by February 13th and take advantage of this opportunity. Questions? We’re here for you—just reach out! Building futures that start here and go anywhere! PCS Enrollment Team

    Thursday, Jan 08 2026

  • Winter Break Is Almost Over

    Welcome Back — Students Return Wednesday! We Can't Wait to See You! We’re so excited to welcome students back on Wednesday, January 7th, and can’t wait to see all those familiar faces. Just a quick reminder that tomorrow, Tuesday, January 6th, is a professional development day for staff, so there will be no school for students. Enjoy the extra day, and we’ll be ready and smiling when everyone returns on Wednesday! Warmly, Petaluma City Schools

    Monday, Jan 05 2026

  • Junior High Enrollment- OPEN NOW!

    Junior High Enrollment Is Open—Register Today! Enrollment for junior high school is officially open, and all sixth-grade families are encouraged to apply now for the 2026–27 school year! From Petaluma Junior High, Kenilworth Junior High, Petaluma Accelerated Charter School, McDowell Dual Language Immersion Academy, to our middle school programs at Mary Collins at Cherry Valley and Valley Vista Public Waldorf (6th–8th), our district offers six exceptional schools, all with one amazing education. We invite you to join a campus tour, meet our teams, and start dreaming about the junior high school experience that’s right for your student. The priority registration window closes on Friday, December 19th. Submit your application today.

    Tuesday, Dec 09 2025

  • TK/K Info Night: December 4th @ 6:00 PM

    Get ready for TK and Kindergarten! Join Petaluma City Schools for a fun, informative evening. Meet teachers and principals, explore our schools, and learn how to prepare our littlest learners for success. One night—seven schools—countless opportunities! Date/Time: Thursday, December 4th from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Location: Petaluma Junior High School Thanks for helping us spread the word with your friends, family, and neighbors!

    Thursday, Nov 13 2025

  • Happening Now! Junior High & Middle School Info Nights

    It’s that exciting time of year when many families begin thinking about  junior high school ! One thing we often hear from families is how much they appreciate having  choices  when it comes to finding the best fit for their student. At  PCS , we’re proud to offer SIX  excellent options  for junior high and middle school. Kenilworth Junior High School (7/8) Mary Collins at Cherry Valley (TK-8) Petaluma Junior High School (7/8) Petaluma Accelerated Charter School (PACS) at McKinley (7/8 on TK-8 campus) Dual Language Immersion Academy (DLIA) at McDowell (7/8 on TK-8 campus) Valley Vista Public Waldorf School (TK-8) We invite you to join us for our upcoming  Info Nights  to learn more about each school, and to sign up for a  daytime tour  to see our campuses in action. Please help us spread the word about these upcoming events.  Priority Registration Window: December 1 - 19, 2025 Visit petalumacityschools.org/enroll during that window to enroll in the school of your choice!

    Wednesday, Nov 12 2025

  • 🦁The Lion King Jr. Theater – Tickets on sale now!

    The McDowell kids are bringing the Pride Lands to life with their incredible production of Disney’s The Lion King Jr.! Show Dates: Friday, November 7th – 6pm in the Multi Saturday, November 8th – Two Shows (Matinee & Evening!) 11:30am and 6pm **Purchase tickets here---->   https://mcdowellpta.booktix.com/ Deadline is Thursday, November 6th.  From the powerful opening notes of “Circle of Life” to the heart-pounding finale, you’ll be amazed by the talent, energy, and hard work these students have poured into every moment. Tickets are on sale now — but hurry! Seats are going fast and we expect a full house for all performances. Come out and support our young performers — it’s a show you  won’t want to miss!   Hakuna Matata, and we’ll see you there!

    Tuesday, Nov 04 2025

  • Every Vote Counts: Please Make Your Voice Heard

    Dear Petaluma City Schools Community, Tomorrow is Election Day, which is our collective opportunity to exercise our right to vote and model civic engagement for our students as part of the democratic process. It also allows us to show up for the values we hold dear. Our PCS Board of Education placed Measure I on the ballot to provide approximately $3 million annually to retain excellent teachers, enhance math, science, engineering, technology, and writing programs, maintain smaller class sizes and prepare students for college and careers. Because of cuts at the federal and state level, this measure is not about adding new programs and staff, but rather is about keeping what we have.  As of Friday, October 31st, only 1 out of every 3 PCS families had returned their ballot.   How to Vote According to the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters If you’re anything like me and have already filled out and signed your ballot, but have not dropped it off yet, you can drop your ballot off at one of these locations: Petaluma Community Center (Lucchesi Center) – 320 N. McDowell Blvd. Petaluma Veterans Memorial Building – 1094 Petaluma Blvd. S If you prefer to vote in person, these voting centers are open today and tomorrow: Petaluma City Hall – 11 English St.  Petaluma Community Center (Lucchesi Center) – 320 N. McDowell Blvd. Please note that the United States Postal Service (USPS) can no longer guarantee all mail will receive a postmark on the day they receive it. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you avoid mailing your ballot on Election Day because it may not be counted. Education connects generations, strengthens our community, and shapes our shared future. I want to encourage you to please take a few minutes today and ensure your vote counts. While you are at it, please remind your friends and neighbors to do the same.  In partnership,  Matthew Harris  Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools

    Tuesday, Nov 04 2025

  • PCS Newsletter: October 27, 2025

    PCS Newsletter October 27, 2025 Dear PCS Community, Fall is in the air, apples are falling from the trees, and pumpkins are on the ground. I hope this message finds you and your loved ones doing well as we continue to focus on connection, kindness, and engaged, rigorous learning, all values that make Petaluma such a special place to live and raise a family. I want to take a moment to ensure that our families are aware about Measure I, a local parcel tax that our Petaluma City Schools Board of Trustees voted to place on the November 4th ballot. This measure was not proposed lightly, but stemmed from necessity in response to two critical financial challenges facing our schools: The cancellation of millions of dollars of federal funding that we have relied on for the past several years to support key programs and services for our students, and State-level payment deferrals, which further strain and create uncertainty for our already limited resources. As many of you know, public education has been chronically underfunded at both the state and federal levels for far too long. Here in Petaluma, we’ve worked hard to stretch every dollar, protect vital programs, and retain talented educators. But the reality is that without local action, we are facing the possibility of needing to reduce our budget by an additional $3 - $4 million in staff and programs, cuts that would directly impact the quality of education our students receive. Measure I is designed to protect our schools from many of these reductions. It would provide approximately $3 million per year of stable, locally-controlled funding for eight years to support Petaluma’s schools. The measure includes annual audits, independent citizen oversight, and exemptions for homeowners age 65 and older and low-income homeowners with disabilities. The stated goal of these funds is to: Maintain core academic programs Retain teachers and school staff Support classroom technology and instructional materials Preserve the quality of education Petaluma families expect and deserve These types of ballot measures require a steep two-thirds majority (66.7%) to pass.  Education is Petaluma’s greatest tradition. It’s what binds generations, drives our local economy, and shapes the future of our children. Whatever you do, please vote this November. Thank you for your continued support of our students, our schools, and our shared future. In partnership,  Matthew Harris  Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools Disability Awareness Month October is Disability Awareness Month, meaning a time for our Petaluma community to learn, reflect, and celebrate the diverse experiences and contributions of people with disabilities. With 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. living with a disability, it's essential that we recognize the many ways disabilities can affect individuals, and that not all are visible. This month, we recommit to building school cultures rooted in empathy, accessibility, and inclusion, where every student, staff member, and family feels seen, respected, and supported. Let’s challenge myths, elevate understanding, and ensure that our campuses are places where everyone can thrive, and not just in October, but every day. Budget Advisory / LCAP (Local Control & Accountability Plan) Update Over the past several weeks, our Budget Advisory/ Local Control and Accountability Plan committee has been meeting to begin the conversation about aligning our budget to our District goals and priorities. Given the data we reviewed, below are three pieces of feedback from last week’s meeting: Invest in Early Literacy and Equitable Interventions Early literacy support was identified as a cost-effective strategy to reduce long-term intervention needs, particularly for English Learners and students with disabilities. Implement Common Assessments for Timely Support There was strong consensus around adopting common assessments across our District to better identify student needs and apply Tier 1 and Tier 2 interventions more effectively. Prioritize Equity in Resource Allocation Participants emphasized the need to distribute resources more equitably across schools, including support for elementary attendance, wrap-around services, and consistent math instruction. College & Career Corner Fall is in the Air! For our Class of 2026, plans for life after high school are getting in sharper focus by the day. Applications for College, Career Certifications & Training, Financial Aid, Military - and so much more and top of mind for our Seniors. Let's all cheer them on as they work hard to complete applications while managing school work, jobs, athletics, families, and life! To our Class of 2026 - we are so proud of you!!! You got this!!! What's New in the World of Work-Based Learning? A big thank-you to Matt Baldwin and Kelsey Sundquist, engineers from Medtronic, for visiting Ms. Eaton’s Principles of Engineering class at Petaluma High School! They shared insights about engineering careers, demonstrated Medtronic’s innovative medical technologies, and inspired students with stories from their own paths in the field. We appreciate their time and the real-world connection they brought to the classroom! Victoria Polombi (left) and Sofia Piazza (right) experiment at Casa Grande High School with clay to create sculptures that celebrate the first signs of Fall as a part our 3-D Advanced Maker Art Class. Technology Student Interns at San Antonio High School The PCS Technology department has launched a technology internship program for students at San Antonio High School, where students will develop skills and knowledge in the vital and growing sector of information technology. Select students are working under the guidance of PCS Technology staff, learning to troubleshoot and repair Chromebooks, log repairs and parts, and prepare for industry experiences through mock interviews and other simulations. Shout out to our PCS CTE Advisory Committee! Tremendous thank you to our phenomenal group of over 30 Career Technical Education (CTE) teachers, college partners, and industry professionals who came together on September 30 to hear updates, connect, and consider the following essential questions: What does a meaningful school/industry partnership look like in your sector? What does a successful graduate of the CTE pathway in this sector look like to you? Are there “must-have” skills, mindsets, or certifications students should have by graduation? Key takeaways included the importance of hands-on learning, professional skills training, and authentic partnerships that connect students directly with the workforce. Fantastic engagement, and we thank ALL of our awesome industry partners across the 22 CTE pathways we currently host in our schools. JOIN THE TEAM! Class of 2026 Spotlight: Seniors! Do these TWO things now! #1 Log into CaliforniaColleges.edu and launch your college applications! Launch FAFSA/CADAA! Explore post-secondary options!!! Use the new Google Single Sign-on option at CaliforniaColleges.edu All accounts are free from the state of California and "transcript-informed". Learn more: Tools for Students #2 Explore all of your Financial Aid options Attention Parents! Have you registered your CaliforniaColleges.edu account yet? Easy instructions in (English) and (Spanish) ! Class of 2026 Reminders UC application deadline: December 1, 2025 CSU application priority deadline: December 1, 2025 NEW Statewide Automatic Admission Program for CSUs! Extended Transfer Success Pathways for CSUs Updates & Reminders 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! Board Member Office Hours We invite all members of the PCS community to join us for our upcoming Board of Education Office Hours! These sessions are a wonderful opportunity to share your questions, concerns, and great ideas directly with our Board of Education members. Whether you’re a student, parent, staff member, or community partner, your voice matters—and we want to hear from you. Office hours are also a great way to learn more about how to get involved and stay connected with what’s happening across PCS. While each session will be hosted at a specific school site, all dates are open to every member of the PCS community, regardless of your home school. We hope you’ll stop by, say hello, and join in the conversation. Additional office hours will be scheduled at other sites this spring—stay tuned for more details! Join Our PCS Team! Apply Today! View Job Openings At PCS, education isn’t just what we do — it’s who we are. We’re looking for passionate, dedicated individuals to help shape the future of our students and community. This week’s featured opportunities: 🏈 Athletic Trainer – Petaluma High School 🍎 Instructional Assistant (TK) – Valley Vista Public Waldorf 🎓 Athletic Director 💼 Program Manager – Special Services Make a difference. Build your career. Inspire tomorrow. Questions? Our Human Resources Department is here to help! 📞 (707) 778-4795 | 📧 hrinfo@petk12.org   PCS on the Ice is Back! ❄️ ❄️ Join Us for the 2nd Annual PCS on the Ice! ❄️ Get ready to lace up your skates—or simply soak in the festive cheer—at our 2nd Annual PCS on the Ice event! Join the PCS community on Wednesday, December 10th at the Petaluma Fairgrounds for an evening of winter fun and holiday spirit. This year, we’re excited to offer two skating sessions, giving more families the opportunity to enjoy the magic of the ice together. Whether you’re gliding across the rink or cheering from the sidelines with a cup of cocoa, this is a wonderful time to connect, celebrate, and kick off the holiday season as a community. Tickets are limited—be sure to get yours today! Historic Chinatown Park Here in Petaluma! Join the City of Petaluma and community members in celebrating the unveiling of a new historic plaque honoring Petaluma’s 19th-century Chinese community at the small green space in front of the Mystic Theatre (7 Petaluma Blvd N). This free, family-friendly event will feature remarks from community leaders, a traditional Lion Dance, and the unveiling by one of Petaluma’s oldest Chinese families. Families with young children are encouraged to attend—goodie bags with fun and educational activities (for TK–6th grade) will be available. Parking around the park will be closed to make room for attendees, so plan to arrive early. Let’s come together to honor this important piece of Petaluma’s history and celebrate our community’s diversity! PCS Food & Nutrition Free Breakfast for Every Student! 🍎 "When you wake up in the morning, Pooh," said Piglet at last, "what's the first thing you say to yourself?" "What's for breakfast?" said Pooh. "What do you say, Piglet?" "I say, I wonder what's going to happen exciting to-day?" said Piglet. Pooh nodded thoughtfully. "It's the same thing," he said. ~A. A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh,  Research consistently shows that consuming a morning meal helps students concentrate better in class, improve their memory, and sustain their energy until lunchtime. By that measure, we consider breakfast one important way to help reduce learning barriers, so our PCS food program is committed to ensuring every student has access to this vital meal every day. In case you were not aware, school breakfast is available to all PCS students, every single school day, at no charge—no applications or paperwork required. We offer a variety of menu options, including whole grains, fresh fruit, and low-fat dairy, all meeting or exceeding rigorous USDA nutrition standards. We invite all PCS students to make school breakfast part of their daily routine and sincerely hope it helps fuel an exciting, action-packed day of learning and growth! For questions about our breakfast program, 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@pet12.org. Breakfast & Lunch Menus Environmental Literacy & Climate Action Growing Environmental Literacy in Petaluma City Schools Petaluma City Schools continues to deepen its commitment to environmental literacy and climate education through engaging professional development and community collaboration. Last Monday, secondary teachers participated in a dynamic professional learning session with Ten Strands, where they were introduced to the Seeds to Solutions curriculum. This innovative program connects environmental science concepts to local and global sustainability challenges, empowering educators to guide students in developing actionable solutions for a more sustainable future. Teachers explored lessons that integrate climate literacy, systems thinking, and student-centered inquiry — all aligned with California’s environmental literacy goals. Meanwhile, the Environmental Literacy and Climate Action Committee met last Tuesday for a powerful session focused on climate anxiety and emotional resilience. The meeting featured a presentation by Good Grief Network, an organization dedicated to helping individuals navigate eco-distress and transform anxiety into meaningful action. Participants discussed strategies for supporting students and staff in acknowledging climate-related emotions while fostering hope, connection, and community engagement. Together, these efforts reflect Petaluma City Schools’ vision to nurture informed, compassionate, and empowered learners who are ready to lead in a changing world. For Parents & Families:  Check out this wonderful Resource Guide from the Climate Mental Health Network to support conversations around Climate Change at home! Opportunities: Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day:  Friday, November 14.  Is your school registered?  More information here. PCS Environmental Literacy & Climate Action Committee:  Tuesday, December 2, 4:00-5:30 (PCS District Office Board Room).  Join us! Let's Make it a Great Week, PCS!

    Monday, Oct 27 2025

  • PCS Response to Immigration Enforcement Concerns

    Dear PCS Community, We recognize that recent reports of increased immigration enforcement in San Francisco and the Bay Area are causing concern among our communities.  At PCS, we want to reaffirm our commitment: our schools are welcoming, inclusive spaces where every student is supported, valued, and protected from fear or discrimination. This past December, our Board of Education passed Resolution   2425-19 , reaffirming our unwavering commitment to every student in Petaluma City Schools. This resolution makes it clear that all students, regardless of their immigration status, have the right to a free and public education that enables them to be safe at school, to learn, and to grow to their fullest potential. Every child’s right to an education is also protected under  Plyler v. Doe  (1982) and Assembly Bill 699 (2017), which ensures that California public schools provide equal access to education while safeguarding the privacy of student records. PCS remains steadfast in upholding these rights for every student, every day. Privacy and Protection : We will never ask about or collect information regarding a student’s immigration status. Our priority is your child’s education, not their background. We believe that no child should feel singled out or unsafe because of who they are. Schools are prohibited from sharing personal information about students or their family members for immigration-enforcement purposes.   Immigration authorities must have a court order or judicial subpoena to receive information. A Sanctuary for All Families : Immigration enforcement activities have no place in our schools. We will continue to protect the learning environment for all students and their families. Our schools are a place where your child’s safety and well-being come first.  In compliance with  Senate Bill 98 , if there is confirmed ICE at a school, the District will notify families and staff.   How Families Can Help Stay informed by reading updates from trusted and official sources. Keep your child’s emergency contact information up to date at their school. If needed, consider completing a  Caregiver Affidavit   to ensure continuity of care. We recognize that these are challenging times for many families. Please remember that you are not alone. Our district staff is here to listen, support, and partner with you to ensure that all students feel safe, seen, and supported. Together, we will continue to uphold our shared values of safety, belonging, and opportunity for every student. PCS draws its strength from the unity and resilience of our community and we will continue working together to ensure that every child has the chance to thrive. In partnership, Matthew Harris, Superintendent

    Monday, Oct 27 2025