I’m writing to share some upcoming leadership changes for the 2024-25 school year. I have requested to take an unpaid leave of absence for ten months of the 2024-2025 school year, beginning at the end of August. This timing will allow me to collaborate with our PCS leadership team, Board of Education, and educational partners to ensure a strong start to the school year.
I love this work and I love Petaluma City Schools, and at the same time, these past several years have weighed heavily on my family. Having this time will allow me to step back and be more fully present with my five children and wife, and allow us to fulfill a long-held dream of ours, to travel widely.
During my time away, PCS will be well supported by two acting, part-time superintendents, each of whom will lead for a semester. Dr. Esmeralda Mondragón, the former superintendent in Calistoga, will lead in the Fall. Dr. Louann Carlomagno, who is retiring from Hillsborough this year, will lead in the Spring. Both acting, part-time superintendents are very accomplished leaders and will be presented at our June 18th Board meeting along with more information about the 2024-25 leadership plan. In addition, Mr. Tony Hua will be elevated to Deputy Superintendent to create a seamless leadership structure, when our acting, part-time superintendents are not here.
I am thankful to the PCS Board for our strong partnership and for their support of my family’s dream and this plan. At their request, I will stay connected and work in a limited capacity, while on leave, to support our acting, part-time superintendents and team from afar. I have the utmost confidence that together, this team will continue to lead PCS toward the goals and initiatives we have set in motion.
I will be returning to PCS in July of 2025 and I look forward to bringing a fresh perspective and continuing our work together.
In partnership,
Matthew Harris
Superintendent, Petaluma City Schools
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