Petaluma offers a diverse and dynamic school system. The area’s public schools are managed by the Petaluma City School District. There are two comprehensive high schools, six elementary schools, two charter schools, two junior high schools, a community day school serving grades 7-9, two high schools, two small alternative high schools, and a continuation high school in Petaluma. There are over 878 staff members in the Petaluma City Schools who, along with the larger school community, are responsible for the educational experiences of 7400 students.
Petaluma also offers an independent study program as an alternative to students in all grades. All schools within the Petaluma City and Joint Union High School Districts offer special education services, along with Gifted and Talented Education (GATE). Special assistance is provided for all English-learning students.
The district of Petaluma City Schools is known for a rigorous and relevant curriculum in which students reach high levels of achievement. Students graduate prepared for success in work, advanced study and in the community, and students are provided with a caring and safe environment where they are motivated to do their best work. Diversity is seen as an asset that strengthens and enriches the learning community.
Petaluma City Schools also manages the Petaluma Adult School, which offers opportunities for students to continue their education on a high school or post-high school level. Many of these students are working toward a high school diploma or are learning English as a second language.
Volunteers play an important role in Petaluma’s schools, from parent groups, an educational foundation, patrons of the arts, and supporting athletic and fine arts programs.
Petaluma is also home to Santa Rosa Junior College – consistently ranked as one of the top junior colleges in the nation -- a Roman Catholic high school, St. Vincent de Paul High School, and the unaccredited Institute of Noetic Sciences.
(30)
(2)
(5)
