Final Call! New Spots Open in Our After-School Enrichment Session

New Chess Class Open for Grades 1-6 on Mondays!

Our spring session is 6 weeks and it runs from April 18th – May 27th. Space is still available in:

  • Chess (Mondays, grades 1-6 offered by Novato Chess Room)
  • Martial Arts (Thursdays, grades 1-3)
  • Origami (Thursdays, grades 4-6)
  • Soccer (Mondays, grades 1-3)

Our Spring Fundraiser is on Saturday May 14th! We Still Need Auction Items, Buy-In Parties and Volunteers!

Community Engagement Volunteers Wanted

Are you an extrovert who loves meeting new people? Are you looking for a rewarding way to get involved at McKinley? Would you like to help promote a really fun event to our entire school community? ¿Hablas español? If so, you’d be the perfect fit as our Spring Fundraiser Community Engagement chair.

Our Spring Fundraiser is taking place on Saturday, May 14th at Herzog Hall on the Petaluma Fairgrounds. Herzog Hall is a larger venue than we’ve used in the past and it’s just down the road from McKinley. Our goal is to have a sold out event with attendance from a wide representation of all our families!

As the Spring Fundraiser Community Engagement Chair(s) you will: 

  • Help us spread the word about the event to all our families in creative ways including at drop off/pick up, Intercultural Café, Lion King performances, and ELAC meetings
  • Brainstorm and help secure 1-2 low-cost Buy-in Parties that will appeal to a wide range of families
  • Help plan and execute the raffle portion of our fundraiser 

Would you like to learn more? Please reach out to Renee McArdle (VP Fundraising) or (707) 338-7757 

Host A Buy-In Party!

A Buy-In Party is a fun event one or multiple families host at a future date to help us raise funds. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis to McKinley families. The host families cover all expenses. Here are some ideas for kinds of parties a family could host to get you thinking:

Tasting party (Wine, bourbon, cheese, coffee, etc.)

Game board night

Karaoke night

Cooking class (prepare your favorite recipes!)

Guided hike and picnic

Farm-to-table meal

Dodgeball/soccer/basketball game

We are also looking for silent auction donations like gift baskets, tickets to professional sports games, vacation rentals, summer camps etc. Contact Erin Schlueter with your donations!


Shop and Donate at Rusty Hinges – Order by Monday, April 25th – Pick up on April 27th and 28th

Order a Provisions Bundle box which includes fresh produce, eggs, milk & dairy products, pastured protein and bread selections for a week. 20% of the proceeds will go to McKinley.

Pick up at Rusty Hinges Ranch on April 27th and 28th.
212 Chileno Valley Road, Petaluma CA 94952


Join us for a FREE dinner at the McKinley Block Party on
Thursday, April 28

Mark your calendars to join your fellow McKinley families at school for a FREE Dinner on Thursday April 28th from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at the PTA Sponsored “McKinley Block Party”

Come for dinner, stay for community, leave enlightened!

Click here for more details on this fun, engaging evening!


Recess Playground Volunteers Wanted!

Do you want to help your teacher in a fun and rewarding way?

In a recent survey of McKinley staff, the #1 ask was for more parent support. One of the ways staff identified we could help is by volunteering out on the blacktop during recess and lunch, allowing staff more time to focus on meeting the complex needs of their students. 

Just one recess (10:05 – 10:45 am) or lunchtime (11:45 am – 1:00pm) per week (more or less if you’d like), one-month commitment to start. We welcome a longer commitment.

Click here to sign up – grab a friend to join you, or plan to make new friends!


We need people like you on the PTA Board Next School Year!

Our McKinley PTA is run entirely by parent volunteers who are passionate about serving all of our children in the McKinley community. With a budget  of over $100,000, we need dedicated volunteers to help us promote, support, advocate, and adopt new programs and maintain our existing programs for our incredible McKinley school! 

We need YOU to step up and help us fill our board positions!  We are looking for energetic and dedicated individuals to help fill positions for:

  • President
  • Financial Secretary
  • Communications
  • Parliamentarian
  • Fundraising

“I joined the PTA board because I wanted to feel like a part of my child’s school community.  Over this year I have had a fast track to getting to know the amazing school staff, parents, and have had a front row seat on how we can allocate our PTA funds. It has been incredibly rewarding.” -Emily Oh 

Want to learn more?  Email Emily Oh at


Details About the Petaluma Council of PTAs

Hello McKinley Community, 

Please find the following Frequently Asked Questions regarding PTA  Council. 

The McKinley PTA will be voting to participate in the PTA Council in our April meeting. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Emily Oh at


Earn donations for McKinley when you shop without additional cost to you!

1. Shop at Petaluma Market or Oliver’s Markets: these grocers will donate 2.5% of your purchase amount to the McKinley PTA if you have the Store’s Community Card. Learn how to get started

2. Shop on Amazon: Shop through smile.amazon.com and the charity of your choice will receive a portion of your purchase.

Follow these instructions to add McKinley as your chosen non-profit. You may also configure your Amazon mobile app to ensure all your purchases are credited to our school.

3. Scan your grocery receipts with the BoxTops app: Did you know you can now easily collect BoxTops on your phone? Simply scan your receipts with eligible items using the BoxTops app and you are done. No more clipping!

Follow the full instructions here
to get started!


Upcoming Events

April 20 – PTA Meeting at the Multi
April 27 & 28 – Shop and Donate at Rusty Hinges
April 28 – School of Excellence Meeting
April 29 – Intercultural Café

Auction Items and Volunteers Still Wanted for Our Spring Fundraiser

New Spots Open in Spring After-School Enrichment for Baking and more!

Our spring session is 6 weeks and it runs from April 18th – May 27th. Space is still available in:

  • Martial Arts (Thursdays, grades 1-3)
  • Origami (Thursdays, grades 4-6)
  • Baking – new session with Ms. Diana (Mondays, grades 1-3)
  • Soccer (Mondays, grades 1-3)
  • Dance (Fridays, grades 1-3)

Auction Items, Buy-In Parties and Volunteers Wanted for Our Spring Fundraiser!

Join us to celebrate Woodstock at Herzog Hall on the Fairgrounds during our annual spring fundraiser and silent auction on May 14th. More details are coming in the next few weeks.

Host a Buy-In Party: A Buy-In Party is a fun event one or multiple families host at a future date to help us raise funds. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis to McKinley families. The host families cover all expenses. Here are some ideas for kinds of parties a family could host to get you thinking:

Tasting party (Wine, bourbon, cheese, coffee, etc.)

Game board night

Karaoke night

Cooking class (prepare your favorite recipes!)

Guided hike and picnic

Farm-to-table meal

Dodgeball/soccer/basketball game

We are also looking for silent auction donations. If you’ve got items you’d like to donate (gift baskets, tickets to professional sports games, vacation rentals, buy-in parties, summer camps etc.), contact Erin Schlueter

Volunteers wanted: We are looking for a few enthusiastic volunteers to help plan and execute the raffle portion of our spring fundraiser and work on outreach to our McKinley community to promote the event.

If you’d like to volunteer, contact Emily Oh at .


We need people like you on the PTA Board Next School Year!

Our McKinley PTA is run entirely by parent volunteers who are passionate about serving all of our children in the McKinley community. With a budget  of over $100,000, we need dedicated volunteers to help us promote, support, advocate, and adopt new programs and maintain our existing programs for our incredible McKinley school! 

We need YOU to step up and help us fill our board positions!  We are looking for energetic and dedicated individuals to help fill positions for:

  • President
  • Financial Secretary
  • Communications
  • Parliamentarian
  • Fundraising

“I joined the PTA board because I wanted to feel like a part of my child’s school community.  Over this year I have had a fast track to getting to know the amazing school staff, parents, and have had a front row seat on how we can allocate our PTA funds. It has been incredibly rewarding.” -Emily Oh 

Want to learn more?  Email Emily Oh at



Details About the Petaluma Council of PTAs

Hello McKinley Community, 

Please find the following Frequently Asked Questions regarding PTA  Council. 

The McKinley PTA will be voting to participate in the PTA Council in our April meeting. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Emily Oh at


School of Excellence Update – Save the Date!
Thursday, April 28

In response to the PTA-sponsored survey called “School of Excellence” that you may have completed in November, the PTA will be hosting an in person event on Thursday, April 28.  Survey responses indicated an opportunity for the PTA to better serve the school community by helping families understand how they can better support their student’s learning.

In order to prepare for this meeting and to capture feedback from those who are unable to attend, we’d like to hear more about what you’d like to see at an event like this.  Please respond to this quick, four question Survey

Shop and Donate at Rusty Hinges – Order by Monday, April 25th – Pick up on April 27th and 28th

Order a Provisions Bundle box which includes fresh produce, eggs, milk & dairy products, pastured protein and bread selections for a week. 20% of the proceeds will go to McKinley.

Pick up at Rusty Hinges Ranch on April 27th and 28th.
212 Chileno Valley Road, Petaluma CA 94952


Earn donations for McKinley when you shop without additional cost to you!

1. Shop at Petaluma Market or Oliver’s Markets: these grocers will donate 2.5% of your purchase amount to the McKinley PTA if you have the Store’s Community Card. Learn how to get started

2. Shop on Amazon: Shop through smile.amazon.com and the charity of your choice will receive a portion of your purchase.

Follow these instructions to add McKinley as your chosen non-profit. You may also configure your Amazon mobile app to ensure all your purchases are credited to our school.

3. Scan your grocery receipts with the BoxTops app: Did you know you can now easily collect BoxTops on your phone? Simply scan your receipts with eligible items using the BoxTops app and you are done. No more clipping!

Follow the full instructions here
to get started!


Upcoming Events

April 20 – PTA Meeting at the Multi
April 27 & 28 – Shop and Donate at Rusty Hinges
April 28 – School of Excellence Meeting
April 29 – Intercultural Café

Auction Items and Volunteers Wanted for Our Spring Fundraiser

Auction Items, Buy-In Parties and Volunteers Wanted for Our Spring Fundraiser!

Join us to celebrate Woodstock at Herzog Hall on the Fairgrounds during our annual spring fundraiser and silent auction on May 14th. More details are coming in the next few weeks.

Host a Buy-In Party: A Buy-In Party is a fun event one or multiple families host at a future date to help us raise funds. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis to McKinley families. The host families cover all expenses. Here are some ideas for kinds of parties a family could host to get you thinking:

Tasting party (Wine, bourbon, cheese, coffee, etc.)

Game board night

Karaoke night

Cooking class (prepare your favorite recipes!)

Guided hike and picnic

Farm-to-table meal

Dodgeball/soccer/basketball game

We are also looking for silent auction donations. If you’ve got items you’d like to donate (gift baskets, tickets to professional sports games, vacation rentals, buy-in parties, summer camps etc.), contact Erin Schlueter

Volunteers wanted: We are looking for a few enthusiastic volunteers to help plan and execute the raffle portion of our spring fundraiser and work on outreach to our McKinley community to promote the event.

If you’d like to volunteer, contact Emily Oh at .


We need people like you on the PTA Board Next School Year!

Our McKinley PTA is run entirely by parent volunteers who are passionate about serving all of our children in the McKinley community. With a budget  of over $100,000, we need dedicated volunteers to help us promote, support, advocate, and adopt new programs and maintain our existing programs for our incredible McKinley school! 

We need YOU to step up and help us fill our board positions!  We are looking for energetic and dedicated individuals to help fill positions for:

  • President
  • Financial Secretary
  • Communications
  • Parliamentarian
  • Fundraising

“I joined the PTA board because I wanted to feel like a part of my child’s school community.  Over this year I have had a fast track to getting to know the amazing school staff, parents, and have had a front row seat on how we can allocate our PTA funds. It has been incredibly rewarding.” -Emily Oh 

Want to learn more?  Email Emily Oh at


A few spots still available in our Spring After-School Enrichment

Our spring session is 6 weeks and it runs from April 18th – May 27th. Space is still available in:

  • Martial Arts (Thursdays, 1-3)
  • Origami  (Thursdays, grades 4-6)

Do you want to help your teacher in a fun and rewarding way?

In a recent survey of McKinley staff, the #1 ask was for more parent support. One of the ways staff identified we could help is by volunteering out on the blacktop during recess and lunch, allowing staff more time to focus on meeting the complex needs of their students. 

Just one recess (10:05 – 10:45 am) or lunchtime (11:45 am – 1:00pm) per week (more or less if you’d like), one-month commitment to start. We welcome a longer commitment.

Click here to sign up – grab a friend to join you, or plan to make new friends!


Free coffee this Friday morning at our monthly Intercultural Café

Come for the coffee, stay for the community. Not able to make it to the last PTA meeting? Want to make some new connections across our McKinley community? Just love coffee? Join the McKinley PTA Family Engagement Team at our monthly Intercultural Cafe!

Friday, March 25th, after drop-off in the morning, under the overhang outside the front office.

Pick up the PTA meeting minutes (in English or Spanish) and get to know new people. See you there!

Questions? Alicia Callejas (hablo español), , 501-398-8116

Lori Engelhardt, , 415-706-9591

Elizabeth Harris (hablo español), , 310-251-2191


Details About the Petaluma Council of PTAs

Hello McKinley Community, 

Please find the following Frequently Asked Questions regarding PTA  Council. 

The McKinley PTA will be voting to participate in the PTA Council in our April meeting. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Emily Oh at


School of Excellence Update – Save the Date!
Thursday, April 28

In response to the PTA-sponsored survey called “School of Excellence” that you may have completed in November, the PTA will be hosting an in person event on Thursday, April 28.  Survey responses indicated an opportunity for the PTA to better serve the school community by helping families understand how they can better support their student’s learning.

In order to prepare for this meeting and to capture feedback from those who are unable to attend, we’d like to hear more about what you’d like to see at an event like this.  Please respond to this quick, four question Survey



Earn donations for McKinley when you shop without additional cost to you!

1. Shop at Petaluma Market or Oliver’s Markets: these grocers will donate 2.5% of your purchase amount to the McKinley PTA if you have the Store’s Community Card. Learn how to get started

2. Shop on Amazon: Shop through smile.amazon.com and the charity of your choice will receive a portion of your purchase.

Follow these instructions to add McKinley as your chosen non-profit. You may also configure your Amazon mobile app to ensure all your purchases are credited to our school.

3. Scan your grocery receipts with the BoxTops app: Did you know you can now easily collect BoxTops on your phone? Simply scan your receipts with eligible items using the BoxTops app and you are done. No more clipping!

Follow the full instructions here
to get started!


Upcoming Events

March 16 – PTA Meeting at the Multi
March 25 – Intercultural Café

March PTA General Meeting is This Wednesday!

PTA General Meeting Tomorrow, Wednesday March 16th at 6:30pm in the Multi

Join us for our March PTA meeting IN PERSON at the multi this Wednesday. All are welcome.

Spanish translation and childcare will be provided.


A few spots still available in our Spring After-School Enrichment

Our spring session is 6 weeks and it runs from April 18th – May 27th. Space is still available in:

  • Martial Arts (Thursdays, TK-3)
  • Dance (Fridays, grades 1-3)
  • Hand Sewing (Tuesdays, TK/K)
  • Origami  (Thursdays, grades 4-6)

Paper forms and financial assistance are also available in the office.


Save the Date: Our Annual Spring Fundraiser Returns in Person on on May 14th!

Get your bell bottoms ready! Join us to celebrate Woodstock at Herzog Hall on the Fairgrounds during our annual spring fundraiser and silent auction. More details are coming in the next few weeks.

Raffle volunteers wanted: We are looking for a few enthusiastic volunteers to help plan and execute the raffle portion of our spring fundraiser.

If you’d like to volunteer, contact Emily Oh at .

We are looking for silent auction donations: If you’ve got items you’d like to donate (gift baskets, wine, vacation rentals, buy-in parties, etc.), contact Erin Schlueter


Thank you to all the families that helped make our first Ancestor’s Table a huge success!

We had an incredible turn out for our first Ancestor’s Table event with so much delicious food and community building.  Our students were able to complete an interactive cultural BINGO card and were rewarded with a coupon for a free scoop of ice cream from Baskin Robbins. Thank you to everyone who came to our event and we hope this was the first of many to celebrate all the different places we call home. 

We are so grateful to our families who hosted tables and had so many cultures represented at our event! We had tables for Mexico, Guatemala, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Philippines, Italy, and Korea.

A huge thank you to this group of volunteers who helped make this first Ancestor’s Table so successful! 
Ani Larson, Elizabeth Harris, Alicia Callejas, Lori Engelhardt, Trisha Young, Adriana Alvarez, Gina Roberts, Rebecca Hachmyer, and Lupe Diaz 


Do you want to help your teacher in a fun and rewarding way?

In a recent survey of McKinley staff, the #1 ask was for more parent support. One of the ways staff identified we could help is by volunteering out on the blacktop during recess and lunch, allowing staff more time to focus on meeting the complex needs of their students. 

Just one recess (10:05 – 10:45 am) or lunchtime (11:45 am – 1:00pm) per week (more or less if you’d like), one-month commitment to start. We welcome a longer commitment.

Click here to sign up – grab a friend to join you, or plan to make new friends!


Do you want to be in the room where it happens? Join the PTA Board!

Would you like to have a front row seat for PTA decision making (including how we spend our money?!)?  We have started recruiting for our 2022-2023 board and we have a few key positions available!    

Would you like more information about a board position or have any questions or ideas for the PTA?  Email Emily Oh at . We appreciate the collaborative and dedicated spirit of our McKinley family! 



Earn donations for McKinley when you shop without additional cost to you!

1. Shop at Petaluma Market or Oliver’s Markets: these grocers will donate 2.5% of your purchase amount to the McKinley PTA if you have the Store’s Community Card. Learn how to get started

2. Shop on Amazon: Shop through smile.amazon.com and the charity of your choice will receive a portion of your purchase.

Follow these instructions to add McKinley as your chosen non-profit. You may also configure your Amazon mobile app to ensure all your purchases are credited to our school.

3. Scan your grocery receipts with the BoxTops app: Did you know you can now easily collect BoxTops on your phone? Simply scan your receipts with eligible items using the BoxTops app and you are done. No more clipping!

Follow the full instructions here
to get started!


Upcoming Events

March 16 – PTA Meeting at the Multi
March 25 – Intercultural Café

Join Us at Our Ancestor’s Table Event on Saturday!

Come join us at our “Ancestor’s Table: You Belong at McKinley- Where Else Do You Belong?” on Saturday!

The McKinley PTA is excited to announce a FREE community event taking place on Saturday, March 12th, at 11 AM at our beautiful McKinley School.

We want to celebrate the diversity of our students by sharing food, music, and culture from where your family calls home.  Don’t know where you’re from? We invite you to share anything you identify with as being part of your history, anything that shows where else you belong as a family. Join us for an event to come together as a McKinley family. 

Questions?  Email Emily Oh at or Alicia Callejas if you want to communicate in Spanish at


Spring After School Enrichment Sign Ups Start March 14th!

Our spring session is 6 weeks and it runs from April 18th – May 27th. Registration opens Monday, March 14th.

Registration will be online or by paper forms (available in the office). Classes begin immediately after school.

Some financial aid is available. To inquire about financial aid or if you have any questions, please contact ASE coordinator, Emily Betts at or 415-385-6914 (text)


Do you want to help your teacher in a fun and rewarding way?

In a recent survey of McKinley staff, the #1 ask was for more parent support. One of the ways staff identified we could help is by volunteering out on the blacktop during recess and lunch, allowing staff more time to focus on meeting the complex needs of their students. 

Just one recess (10:05 – 10:45 am) or lunchtime (11:45 am – 1:00pm) per week (more or less if you’d like), one-month commitment to start. We welcome a longer commitment.

Click here to sign up – grab a friend to join you, or plan to make new friends!


Volunteer call for Our Spring Fundraiser May 14th

We are looking for a few enthusiastic volunteers to help plan and execute the raffle portion of our spring fundraiser. (More details about the event coming soon!)

This is a great opportunity to connect with other families and help us raise much needed funds to benefit every McKinley/PACS student.

If you’d like to volunteer or learn more about these opportunities, contact Emily Oh at .


PTA General Meeting Next Wednesday March 16th at 6:30pm at the Multi

We are looking for a few enthusiastic volunteers to Join us for our March PTA meeting IN PERSONat the multi next Wednesday. All are welcome. Spanish translation will be provided.


Do you want to be in the room where it happens? Join the PTA Board!

Would you like to have a front row seat for PTA decision making (including how we spend our money?!)?  We have started recruiting for our 2022-2023 board and we have a few key positions available!    

Would you like more information about a board position or have any questions or ideas for the PTA?  Email Emily Oh at . We appreciate the collaborative and dedicated spirit of our McKinley family! 



Earn donations for McKinley when you shop without additional cost to you!

1. Shop at Petaluma Market or Oliver’s Markets: these grocers will donate 2.5% of your purchase amount to the McKinley PTA if you have the Store’s Community Card. Learn how to get started

2. Shop on Amazon: Shop through smile.amazon.com and the charity of your choice will receive a portion of your purchase.

Follow these instructions to add McKinley as your chosen non-profit. You may also configure your Amazon mobile app to ensure all your purchases are credited to our school.

3. Scan your grocery receipts with the BoxTops app: Did you know you can now easily collect BoxTops on your phone? Simply scan your receipts with eligible items using the BoxTops app and you are done. No more clipping!

Follow the full instructions here
to get started!


Upcoming Events

March 12 – Ancestor’s Table at 11am
March 16 – PTA Meeting
March 25 – Intercultural Café

Host a Table at Our Ancestor’s Table Event!

Share About Your Culture and Host a Table at Our Ancestor’s Table Event – Saturday, March 12th at 11am.

We will be hosting an “Ancestor’s Table: You Belong at McKinley- Where Else Do You Belong?” on Saturday, March 12th at 11am.

We want to celebrate the diversity of our students by sharing food, music, and culture from where your family calls home.  Don’t know where you’re from? We invite you to share anything you identify with as being part of your history, anything that shows where else you belong as a family.

Do you want to host a table with food, information or activities about your culture?

Please fill out this form to let us know and we will contact you with more details! The PTA will provide reimbursement for materials.

Tell us about your family’s culture and RSVP to be entered into a raffle!
Fill out this form to let us know more about your culture and share a favorite song for our playlist.

Questions?  Contact Emily Oh at or Alicia Callejas if you want to communicate in Spanish at


Volunteer call for Ancestor’s Table and Our Spring Fundraiser

Ancestor’s Table – March 12th
The PTA is planning an Ancestor’s Table event to take place in March and we need your help. The Ancestor’s Table will allow families to share about their culture and discuss what we learned and what we have in common as a diverse group.

Spring Fundraiser – May 14th
We are looking for a few enthusiastic volunteers to help plan and execute the raffle portion of our spring fundraiser. (More details about the event coming soon!)

This is a great opportunity to connect with other families and help us raise much needed funds to benefit every McKinley/PACS student.

If you’d like to volunteer or learn more about these opportunities, contact Emily Oh at .


Support our teachers and students by volunteering for lunch duty!

In a recent survey of McKinley staff, the #1 request was for more parent support. One of the ways staff identified we could help is by volunteering out on the blacktop during recess and lunch, allowing staff more time to focus on meeting the complex needs of their students. 

Volunteers will support recess and/or lunchtime eating/recess for 1st through 8th graders (parents of TK and K also welcome to volunteer). You will ensure students eat snack/lunch, clean up after themselves and stay safe during recess play. Volunteers have the opportunity to utilize or build skills in conflict management, basic first aid and social coaching skills will be developed.


Do you want to be in the room where it happens? Join the PTA Board!

Would you like to have a front row seat for PTA decision making (including how we spend our money?!)?  We have started recruiting for our 2022-2023 board and we have a few key positions available!    

Would you like more information about a board position or have any questions or ideas for the PTA?  Email Emily Oh at . We appreciate the collaborative and dedicated spirit of our McKinley family! 


Spring After School Enrichment Sign Ups Start March 14th!

Our spring session is 6 weeks and it runs from April 18th – May 27th. Registration opens Monday, March 14th.

Registration will be online or by paper forms (available in the office). Classes begin immediately after school.

Some financial aid is available. To inquire about financial aid or if you have any questions, please contact ASE coordinator, Emily Betts at or 415-385-6914 (text)



Earn donations for McKinley when you shop without additional cost to you!

1. Shop at Petaluma Market or Oliver’s Markets: these grocers will donate 2.5% of your purchase amount to the McKinley PTA if you have the Store’s Community Card. Learn how to get started

2. Shop on Amazon: Shop through smile.amazon.com and the charity of your choice will receive a portion of your purchase.

Follow these instructions to add McKinley as your chosen non-profit. You may also configure your Amazon mobile app to ensure all your purchases are credited to our school.

3. Scan your grocery receipts with the BoxTops app: Did you know you can now easily collect BoxTops on your phone? Simply scan your receipts with eligible items using the BoxTops app and you are done. No more clipping!

Follow the full instructions here
to get started!


Upcoming Events

March 12 – Ancestor’s Table at 11am
March 16 – PTA Meeting
March 25 – Intercultural Café

Announcing Our McKinley Ancestor’s Table Celebration

Learn About All the Family Cultures at McKinley at our Ancestor’s Table Event – Saturday, March 12th at 11am.

The McKinley PTA is excited to announce a FREE community event taking place on Saturday, March 12th, at 11 AM at our beautiful McKinley School. We will be hosting an “Ancestor’s Table: You Belong at McKinley- Where Else Do You Belong?”

We want to celebrate the diversity of our students by sharing food, music, and culture from where your family calls home.  Don’t know where you’re from? We invite you to share anything you identify with as being part of your history, anything that shows where else you belong as a family. Join us for an event to come together as a McKinley family. 

Do you want to host a table with food, information or activities about your culture?

Please fill out this form to let us know and we will contact you with more details!

Tell us about your family’s culture!
Fill out this form to let us know more about your culture and share a favorite song for our playlist.

BONUS: When you fill out the form above and complete the RSVP section to let us know you’re coming, you’ll be entered into a raffle!

Questions?  Contact Emily Oh at or Alicia Callejas if you want to communicate in Spanish at


Intercultural Café is this Friday after morning drop-off!

Join us at the main McKinley entrance Friday, February 25th at around 8:30am after morning drop-off.

Enjoy a free cup of coffee, meet new families, discuss the prior week’s PTA meeting and learn how to get involved. Notes from the PTA meeting will be available in English and Spanish.

More details here


February PTA Meeting Summary

Thank you to all of you who participated in our budget feedback survey and PTA meeting on Wednesday. We were able to vote and approve some items based on the feedback and proposals from community members including some exciting live experiences on campus (since we are not able to go on our field trips!) including animals and the Bay Area Discovery Museum “Try It Truck”, funding for a community movie night, funding for our upcoming free community “Ancestor’s Table” event, and dedicated funds for Physical Education for all grade levels

Our general meeting also reviewed and voted on the possibility of joining the Petaluma PTA Council.

Read the full meeting minutes here

Would you like to have a front row seat for PTA decision making (including how we spend our money?!)?  We have started recruiting for our 2022-2023 board and we have a few key positions available!    

Would you like more information about a board position or have any questions or ideas for the PTA?  Email Emily Oh at . We appreciate the collaborative and dedicated spirit of our McKinley family! 


We need volunteers like you!

Ancestor’s Table – March 12th
The PTA is planning an Ancestor’s Table event to take place in March and we need your help. The Ancestor’s Table will allow families to share about their culture and discuss what we learned and what we have in common as a diverse group.

Spring Fundraiser – May 14th
We are looking for a few enthusiastic volunteers to help plan and execute the raffle portion of our spring fundraiser. (More details about the event coming soon!)

This is a great opportunity to connect with other families and help us raise much needed funds to benefit every McKinley/PACS student.

If you’d like to volunteer or learn more about these opportunities, contact Emily Oh at .


Did you participate in The Giving Tree for Classrooms?

The Giving Tree for Classrooms Program raised a total of $1,525 during the holiday season. This amount was generously matched by our PTA and we therefore had $3,050 to purchase gift cards for each teacher and staff member at McKinley so they can buy the supplies needed to work with our children. Thank you for your generosity!



Lion King Rehearsal and Backstage Crew Information

We will be rehearsing at the multi this week on Wednesday and Friday! Full rehearsal details are here.

Would you like to be part of our backstage team for The Lion King Jr. and get involved in building a variety of stage crafting and tech crew skills? Set building, set painting, prop making, costume making, hair and makeup, production crew, etc.? 

Students in Grades 4-8 are eligible. Click here to sign up.

Got questions? Email Cate Bruce-Low at .


Earn donations for McKinley when you shop without additional cost to you!

1. Shop at Petaluma Market or Oliver’s Markets: these grocers will donate 2.5% of your purchase amount to the McKinley PTA if you have the Store’s Community Card. Learn how to get started

2. Shop on Amazon: Shop through smile.amazon.com and the charity of your choice will receive a portion of your purchase.

Follow these instructions to add McKinley as your chosen non-profit. You may also configure your Amazon mobile app to ensure all your purchases are credited to our school.

3. Scan your grocery receipts with the BoxTops app: Did you know you can now easily collect BoxTops on your phone? Simply scan your receipts with eligible items using the BoxTops app and you are done. No more clipping!

Follow the full instructions here
to get started!


Upcoming Events

Feb 21 – President’s Day Holiday
Feb 25 – Intercultural Café

PTA General Meeting This Wednesday via Zoom

PTA General Meeting this Wednesday, February 19th at 6:30pm

Join us via Zoom for our February meeting.

We’ll be discussing our budget plan for the rest of the school year. Read the full agenda here.

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 831 7083 5685

Passcode: 603963


Dine and Donate at Stockhome – Thursday, February 17th – 12:30pm – 8:30pm

Enjoy popular Swedish foods in the heart of Petaluma! No flyer necessary. Mention “McKinley” when you order and a portion of dinner sales will be donated.

220 Western Ave, Petaluma, CA 94952
Stockhome Website


We need volunteers like you!

Cultural Fair – March 12th
The PTA is planning a Cultural Fair to take place in March and we need your help. The Cultural Fair will allow families to share about their culture and discuss what we learned and what we have in common as a diverse group.

Spring Fundraiser – May 14th
We are looking for a few enthusiastic volunteers to help plan and execute the raffle portion of our spring fundraiser. (More details about the event coming soon!)

This is a great opportunity to connect with other families and help us raise much needed funds to benefit every McKinley/PACS student.

If you’d like to volunteer or learn more about these opportunities, contact Emily Oh at .


Support our students and staff during lunchtime in the month of February!

We need volunteers to assist during lunchtime and recess to ensure students eat lunch, clean up after themselves and stay safe during recess play. Just one lunchtime per week (more or less if you’d like) from 11:45am – 1:00pm.

Volunteers have the opportunity to utilize or build skills in conflict management, basic first aid and social coaching skills will be developed.

Read the requirements and learn more about this great volunteer opportunity here.

Ready to sign up?
Add your name to our Sign Up Genius.

Questions or need help signing up for a shift? Contact the PTA Family Engagement Team:

Lori Engelhardt (415) 706-9591

Alicia Callejas (habla español) (501) 398-8116

Elizabeth Harris (habla español) (310) 251-2191


Watch this video to hear McKinley parent and coach Ashley Fitting talk about the Girls on the Run program. Haga clic en el icono de engranaje en el video para ver los subtítulos en español

Attention Parents of 3rd-5th grade girls – Girls on the Run Sign Ups are Happening Now!

Interested? Learn more about Girls on the Run! There will be an informational Zoom meeting on Wednesday the 16th in English and Thursday in Spanish.

Wednesday 2/16 6:30-7:00pm
Meeting ID: 845 7933 6234

Jueves 2/17 – Español 6:30-7:00pm
Meeting ID: 812 8902 5185

Register your student here!

Got questions? Email Ashley Fitting at


Have you been participating in our Kindness Challenge?

Email your acts of kindness to or tag us on Facebook so we can spread the love and post on our PTA bulletin board.

Check out the calendar here.


Lion King Rehearsal and Backstage Crew Information

We will be rehearsing at the multi this week on Wednesday and Friday! Full rehearsal details are here.

Would you like to be part of our backstage team for The Lion King Jr. and get involved in building a variety of stage crafting and tech crew skills? Set building, set painting, prop making, costume making, hair and makeup, production crew, etc.? 

Students in Grades 4-8 are eligible. Click here to sign up.

Got questions? Email Cate Bruce-Low at .


Earn donations for McKinley when you shop without additional cost to you!

1. Shop at Petaluma Market or Oliver’s Markets: these grocers will donate 2.5% of your purchase amount to the McKinley PTA if you have the Store’s Community Card. Learn how to get started

2. Shop on Amazon: Shop through smile.amazon.com and the charity of your choice will receive a portion of your purchase.

Follow these instructions to add McKinley as your chosen non-profit. You may also configure your Amazon mobile app to ensure all your purchases are credited to our school.

3. Scan your grocery receipts with the BoxTops app: Did you know you can now easily collect BoxTops on your phone? Simply scan your receipts with eligible items using the BoxTops app and you are done. No more clipping!

Follow the full instructions here
to get started!


Upcoming Events

Feb 16 – PTA Meeting
Feb 17 – Dine & Donate Stockhome
Feb 21 – President’s Day Holiday
Feb 25 – Intercultural Café

Help Guide the PTA’s Budget

We want your input on the PTA budget

We want your input as we work on our budget for the remainder of the year!

Please complete this Google form with your thoughts about our budget priorities. Budget items will be discussed at our next PTA meeting on Wednesday, February 16th.

Questions? Email Emily Oh at .


We need volunteers like you!

Cultural Fair – March
The PTA is planning a Cultural Fair to take place in March and we need your help. The Cultural Fair will allow families to share about their culture and discuss what we learned and what we have in common as a diverse group.
Spring Fundraiser – May 14th
We are looking for a few enthusiastic volunteers to help plan and execute the raffle portion of our spring fundraiser. (More details about the event coming soon!)

This is a great opportunity to connect with other families and help us raise much needed funds to benefit every McKinley/PACS student.

If you’d like to volunteer or learn more about these opportunities, contact Emily Oh at .



Lion King Rehearsal and Backstage Crew Information

We will be rehearsing at the multi this week on Wednesday and Friday! Full rehearsal details are here.

Would you like to be part of our backstage team for The Lion King Jr. and get involved in building a variety of stage crafting and tech crew skills? Set building, set painting, prop making, costume making, hair and makeup, production crew, etc.? 

Students in Grades 4-8 are eligible. Click here to sign up.

Got questions? Email Cate Bruce-Low at .


Dine and Donate at Stockhome – Thursday, February 17th – 12:30pm – 8:30pm

Enjoy popular Swedish foods in the heart of Petaluma! No flyer necessary. Mention “McKinley” when you order and a portion of dinner sales will be donated.

220 Western Ave, Petaluma, CA 94952
Stockhome Website


Support our students and staff during lunchtime in the month of February!

We need volunteers to assist during lunchtime and recess to ensure students eat lunch, clean up after themselves and stay safe during recess play. Just one lunchtime per week (more or less if you’d like) from 11:45am – 1:00pm.

Volunteers have the opportunity to utilize or build skills in conflict management, basic first aid and social coaching skills will be developed.

Read the requirements and learn more about this great volunteer opportunity here.

Ready to sign up?
Add your name to our Sign Up Genius.

Questions or need help signing up for a shift? Contact the PTA Family Engagement Team:

Lori Engelhardt (415) 706-9591

Alicia Callejas (habla español) (501) 398-8116

Elizabeth Harris (habla español) (310) 251-2191


Earn donations for McKinley when you shop at Petaluma Market and Oliver’s!

If you shop at the Petaluma Market or at Oliver’s Markets, these grocers will donate 2.5% of your purchase amount to the McKinley PTA if you have the Store’s Community Card. It is a painless way to support the school and it does not cost you extra.  To do so, follow these steps:

Step 1:  Next time you are in the checkout line, ask for a community card and application. The form takes less than 60 seconds to complete.  Just list your name, phone number, zip code, and e-mail and choose the McKinley PTA as the charitable group you want donations to go to.

Step 2: Go to eScrip.com and set up your account.  You will enter the number that is on your store’s community card and list the McKinley PTA ( group # 500825908) as your preferred charity.  Also list your reference phone number.  You may also choose to register a credit card or debit card with them if you want the deduction to happen automatically.

Step 3: Next time you checkout, tell the cashier you have a community card and they will scan it. Optionally, they can also apply it if you give them your phone number or the credit or debit card  you registered.  The 2.5 % contribution will show in your receipt.

That’s it! Thank you and thank these local businesses for their community support.


Upcoming Events

Feb 14 – Lincoln Holiday Observed
Feb 16 – PTA Meeting
Feb 17 – Dine & Donate Stockhome
Feb 21 – President’s Day Holiday
Feb 25 – Intercultural Café

Lunchtime Volunteers Needed for the Month of February

Support our students and staff during lunchtime in the month of February!

We need your help!
Sign ups are now open for February, and you can join this amazing crew!  Just one lunchtime per week (more or less if you’d like), one-month commitment to start (11:45am – 1:00pm). We welcome a longer commitment. Quick overview, requirements, and sign up genius link below.

Overview: Volunteers will support lunchtime eating and recess for 1st through 6th graders (parents of TK and K also welcome to volunteer). You will assist during two shifts, 1st – 3rd grade, and/or 4th – 6th grade*. Volunteers will ensure students eat lunch, clean up after themselves and stay safe during recess play. Volunteers have the opportunity to utilize or build skills in conflict management, basic first aid and social coaching skills will be developed.
*If you feel most comfortable with the 10 and under age group or feel more confident with ages 10+  we can accommodate, just contact us.

Requirements: 

  • TB Assessment  (@ McKinley, good for 3 years. This is free.) 
  • Proof of Covid Vaccine
  • School Volunteer Application
  • Short Training with Principal Larson on your first day
  • 1 Consistent Lunchtime Day/ Week Commitment for February

Click here to sign up – grab a friend to join you, or plan to make new friends!

Questions, or need help signing up for a shift? Contact the PTA Family Engagement Team:

Lori Engelhardt (415) 706-9591

Alicia Callejas (habla español) (501) 398-8116

Elizabeth Harris (habla español) (310) 251-2191

Huge amounts of gratitude to David Schiltgen, Trisha Young, Staci Stern, Margo & Sam Tucker, Bree Arthur and Jenny Elwick Ruether for volunteering at lunchtime to support our staff and students during January. The kids love seeing these new faces out on the playground, and these volunteers are allowing Principal Larson and staff to complete impactful work off the blacktop. 


School Of Excellence Update

Thank you to those who attended the PTA Meeting in January.  We reviewed the survey together and selected survey question 7  “Our school helps families understand how they can support their child’s learning.”  to focus our efforts.  Our next steps are to identify ways that the PTA can support and strengthen this family school partnership. 

Please be in touch with Staci Stern at if you’d like to join in future meetings.


Earn donations for McKinley when you shop at Petaluma Market and Oliver’s!

If you shop at the Petaluma Market or at Oliver’s Markets, these grocers will donate 2.5% of your purchase amount to the McKinley PTA if you have the Store’s Community Card. It is a painless way to support the school and it does not cost you extra.  To do so, follow these steps:

Step 1:  Next time you are in the checkout line, ask for a community card and application. The form takes less than 60 seconds to complete.  Just list your name, phone number, zip code, and e-mail and choose the McKinley PTA as the charitable group you want donations to go to.

Step 2: Go to eScrip.com and set up your account.  You will enter the number that is on your store’s community card and list the McKinley PTA ( group # 500825908) as your preferred charity.  Also list your reference phone number.  You may also choose to register a credit card or debit card with them if you want the deduction to happen automatically.

Step 3: Next time you checkout, tell the cashier you have a community card and they will scan it. Optionally, they can also apply it if you give them your phone number or the credit or debit card  you registered.  The 2.5 % contribution will show in your receipt.

That’s it! Thank you and thank these local businesses for their community support.


Lion King Rehearsal and Backstage Crew Information

We will be returning to the multi for rehearsals this week on Wednesday and Friday! Full rehearsal details are here.

Would you like to be part of our backstage team for The Lion King Jr. and get involved in building a variety of stage crafting and tech crew skills? Set building, set painting, prop making, costume making, hair and makeup, production crew, etc.? 

Students in Grades 4-8 are eligible. Click here to sign up.

Got questions? Email Cate Bruce-Low at .


McKinley’s Month of Kindness

Did you see our PTA February Month of Kindness Calendar in your Wednesday folders?

Share your acts of kindness with us during the month of February by emailing or tag us on Facebook so we can spread the love and post on our PTA bulletin board


Would you like to help with our spring fundraiser?

We are looking for a few enthusiastic volunteers to help plan and execute the raffle portion of our spring fundraiser taking place in May. (More details about the event coming soon!)

This is a great opportunity to connect with other families and help us raise much needed funds to benefit every McKinley/PACS student.

If you’d like to volunteer or learn more, contact Emily Oh at .


Dine and Donate at Stockhome – Thursday, February 17th – 12:30pm – 8:30pm

Enjoy popular Swedish foods in the heart of Petaluma! No flyer necessary. Mention “McKinley” when you order and a portion of dinner sales will be donated.

220 Western Ave, Petaluma, CA 94952
Stockhome Website


Upcoming Events

Feb 14 – Lincoln Holiday Observed
Feb 16 – PTA Meeting
Feb 17 – Dine & Donate Stockhome
Feb 21 – President’s Day Holiday
Feb 25 – Intercultural Café

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