Category: Announcements

Join us for a FREE dinner at the McKinley Parent Education Night Block Party Tomorrow,
Thursday, April 28

Bring the whole family for a FREE dinner tomorrow from 5:30pm – 7:30pm and to learn different ways to support your child’s education (homework help, tech support, how to save for college and more!)  Learn more about this event.

RSVP here if you get the chance, but you can also just show up!   Tell all your friends!

Come for dinner, stay for community, leave enlightened!

Parents, we need your help!

We still have open slots at recess and at lunch throughout the month of May! 

Volunteer 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.

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 assist during two timeframes, 1st – 3rd grade, and/or 4th – 8th grade*.

Volunteers 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.

Sign up Today: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0945ACAD2F4-mayrecess

Questions? Need help signing up for a shift?
Lori (415) 706-9591  
Alicia (habla español) (501) 398-8116
Elizabeth (habla español) (310) 251-2191

Make a lasting impact on McKinley. Join the PTA Board

Are you interested in making a lasting impact on your child’s school? Our award-winning McKinley PTA operates with a $100,000 budget per year to provide resources and support programs, including experiential learning, bilingual instruction, classroom supplies, school community events, and much more.

As we start looking ahead to the 2022-23 school year, we’re looking for energetic and dedicated individuals to help fill PTA board positions for:

• President
• Vice-president
• Financial Secretary
• VP of Communications
• VP of Fundraising

A full description of the roles and responsibilities can be found here.

If you are interested in any of these roles — or you would like to nominate someone — please email us at and let us know!

FREE COFFEE at Intercultural Café This Friday After Drop Off

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, April 29th, 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

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 28 – McKinley Block Party Parent Education Night
April 29 – Intercultural Café
May 14 – Spring Fundraiser at Herzog Hall on the Fairgrounds

Join Us for the McKinley Block Party – Thursday, April 28th

Please join your fellow classmates’ families on Thursday, April 28th from 5:30pm – 7:30pm for a FREE Dinner and a sweet treat at the McKinley Block Party!

Please RSVP here so we can order the right amount of food.

Everyone in your family is heartily invited and welcome to attend whether you RSVP or not!Come for dinner, stay for community, leave enlightened!

Shop and Donate at Rusty Hinges – Last Day to Order is TOMORROW, Monday, April 25th

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

Make a lasting impact on McKinley. Join the PTA Board

Are you interested in making a lasting impact on your child’s school? Our award-winning McKinley PTA operates with a $100,000 budget per year to provide resources and support programs, including experiential learning, bilingual instruction, classroom supplies, school community events, and much more.

As we start looking ahead to the 2022-23 school year, we’re looking for energetic and dedicated individuals to help fill PTA board positions for:

• President
• Vice-president
• Financial Secretary
• VP of Communications
• VP of Fundraising

A full description of the roles and responsibilities can be found here.

If you are interested in any of these roles — or you would like to nominate someone — please email us at and let us know!

FREE COFFEE at Intercultural Café This Friday After Drop Off

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, April 29th, 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

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 27 & 28 – Shop and Donate at Rusty Hinges
April 28 – McKinley Block Party
April 29 – Intercultural Café
May 14 – Spring Fundraiser at Herzog Hall on the Fairgrounds

LIVE Performances of The Lion King Jr. on April 22, 23, and 24

The African savannah comes to life onstage with Simba, Rafiki and an unforgettable cast of characters as they journey from Pride Rock to the jungle… and back again, in this inspiring, coming-of-age tale featuring the music of the award-winning Broadway musical and movie. This production is performed by the talented students of McKinley Elementary in the Multipurpose room.

ROAR CAST – April 22 at 6:30pm & April 24 at 1:30pm

STAR CAST – April 23 at 1:30pm & 6:30pm

FREE ADMISSION – A donation to the McKinley Patrons of the Performing Arts Fund is encouraged

PTA General Meeting This Wednesday, April 20th at 6:30pm

Join us on April 20th at 6:30pm IN PERSON in the Multipurpose room for our April PTA General Meeting.

Learn about all our current programs and vote on upcoming initiatives. Spanish translation will be provided.

Shop and Donate at Kandila by Jem’s Booth at the Butter and Eggs Festival – April 23, 2022

Purchase unique hand-poured soy candles and soaps from Kandila by Jem and 15% of the proceeds will go to McKinley!

Simply visit the Kandila by Jem booth at the Butter and Eggs Festival on April 23 located at Western Street and Petaluma Boulevard by the Old Bank.

Show this flyer on your phone when you purchase!

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!

Make a lasting impact on McKinley. Join the PTA Board

Are you interested in making a lasting impact on your child’s school? Our award-winning McKinley PTA operates with a $100,000 budget per year to provide resources and support programs, including experiential learning, bilingual instruction, classroom supplies, school community events, and much more.

As we start looking ahead to the 2022-23 school year, we’re looking for energetic and dedicated individuals to help fill PTA board positions for:

• President
• Vice-president
• Financial Secretary
• Communications
• Parliamentarian
• Fundraising

A full description of the roles and responsibilities can be found here.

If you are interested in any of these roles — or you would like to nominate someone — please email us at and let us know!

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 23 – Shop and Donate with Kandila by Jem
April 27 & 28 – Shop and Donate at Rusty Hinges
April 28 – McKinley Block Party
April 29 – Intercultural Café
May 14 – Spring Fundraiser at Herzog Hall on the Fairgrounds

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!

McKinley Performing Arts Presents Disney’s The Lion King Jr.

The African savannah comes to life onstage with Simba, Rafiki and an unforgettable cast of characters as they journey from Pride Rock to the jungle… and back again, in this inspiring, coming-of-age tale featuring the music of the award-winning Broadway musical and movie. This production is performed by the talented students of McKinley Elementary in the Multipurpose room.

ROAR CAST – April 22 at 6:30pm & April 24 at 1:30pm

STAR CAST – April 23 at 1:30pm & 6:30pm

FREE ADMISSION – A donation to the McKinley Patrons of the Performing Arts Fund is encouraged

Mark Your Calendars! Our Spring Fundraiser is on Saturday May 14th!

Join us for an evening of good food, music, conversation and FUNDRAISING on Saturday, May 14th at Herzog Hall on the Petaluma Fairgrounds. You won’t want to miss the return of our annual in-person silent auction! It will be a fun night for all.

Full details coming via our newsletters and social media very soon!

We are still looking for volunteers and donations.

Learn more about the event and volunteer opportunities here.

PTA General Meeting Next Wednesday, April 20th at 6:30pm

Join us on April 20th at 6:30pm IN PERSON in the Multipurpose room for our April PTA General Meeting.

Learn about all our current programs and vote on upcoming initiatives. Spanish translation will be provided.

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
• Vice-president
• Financial Secretary
• Communications
• Parliamentarian
• Fundraising

Read all position descriptions here

“PTA has been a wonderful experience. It has allowed me to make connections with other parents and the school administration. It has also allowed me the opportunity to have a voice in how the school evolves. I’d highly recommend joining the PTA.” -Larissa Laska-Ruebusch 

Want to learn more?  Email Emily Oh at

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

Shop and Donate at Kandila by Jem’s Booth at the Butter and Eggs Festival – April 23, 2022

Purchase unique hand-poured soy candles and soaps from Kandila by Jem and 15% of the proceeds will go to McKinley!

Simply visit the Kandila by Jem booth at the Butter and Eggs Festival on April 23 located at Western Street and Petaluma Boulevard by the Old Bank.

Show this flyer on your phone when you purchase!

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!

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!

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

Upcoming Events

April 20 – PTA Meeting at the Multi
April 23 – Shop and Donate with Kandila by Jem
April 27 & 28 – Shop and Donate at Rusty Hinges
April 28 – McKinley Block Party
April 29 – Intercultural Café
May 14 – Spring Fundraiser at Herzog Hall on the Fairgrounds

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

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, 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

Lion King Rehearsal Information

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

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

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

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

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! 

Lion King Rehearsal Information

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

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

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

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! 

Lion King Rehearsal Information

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

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

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

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)

Lion King Rehearsal Information

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

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

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