Why We Love McKinley
Where Students Belong, Learn, and Lead
A Welcoming & Diverse Community
Families from across Petaluma choose McKinley for its inclusive culture, where every child feels at home. A diverse school community where students of many racial and cultural backgrounds learn side by side, with celebrations of that diversity throughout the year.
Staff Who Know Your Child
Every staff member knows every student by name. Our dedicated teacher team plans family events and coordinates student showcases.
Growing Leaders
Students practice leadership and empathy every day. They leave McKinley ready to succeed, confident in who they are, and with priority enrollment at Petaluma Accelerated Charter School (PACS).
A Strong Start for Our Youngest Learners
Brand New TK Building
McKinley’s TK students learn in a brand new building designed just for them. Every space is built with young children in mind, from bright, welcoming classrooms to open areas made for play and exploration.
Where Young Learners Thrive
Teachers meet each child where they are and support both academic and social growth. Hands-on activities, small-group lessons, and play help every child learn at their own pace.
A Joyful Start to School
In a space made just for them, children feel safe, build confidence, and discover a lasting love of learning that lasts.
Come See McKinley in Person
Tour our campus, visit classrooms, and see what makes McKinley a special place to learn. Tours start at 9:00 a.m.
November: Monday the 9th
December: Tuesday the 8th
January: Tuesday the 12th, Friday the 22nd, Tuesday the 26th
February: Tuesday the 2nd
McKinley Tours - English | McKinley Tours - Spanish
RSVP for McKinley TourPetaluma Accelerated Charter School (PACS) at McKinley
Tight-Knit Middle School
PACS is a small, diverse 7th- and 8th-grade school that opened in 2015. A team of dedicated teachers provides personalized instruction and knows each student deeply. Students are challenged to push themselves, supported to succeed, and prepared to become problem solvers and leaders.
Ranked Among California’s Best
U.S. News & World Report ranked PACS #10 among California middle schools in its 2027 Best Schools rankings, #2 among California charter middle schools, and #1 among PCS middle schools. PACS ranked #4 in the state in 2025 (see the full list) and was named a 2019 California Distinguished School, the only one in Sonoma County that year.
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