California's Common Core State Standards (CCSS) guide what your child learns in the core subjects of reading, writing, and math. Beyond CSSS, there are California standards for all other subject areas including science, physical education, social studies, and visual and performing arts. Like a roadmap for your child's education, standards outline what will be taught through our adopted curriculum and learning activities.
English Language Arts: Wonders (Grades TK-5), StudySync (Grade 6)
Mathematics: Everyday Math (Grades TK-5), CPM (Grade 6)
Science: Twig (Grades TK-5), TCI: Bring Science Alive! (Grade 6)
Social Studies: myWorld Interactive (Grades TK-5), TCI: History Alive! The Ancient World (Grade 6)
We believe all students have value, infinite potential and the right to an excellent education. We offer a variety of programs to ensure all scholars can succeed. Whether you’re an English language learner, a student who requires academic intervention, or an advanced learner, we strive to support all students as they reach their full potential. Additionally, our special education team offers individualized instruction for students with unique learning needs. Our multi-tiered approach ensures every student has the opportunity to thrive.
All third-grade students in Petaluma City Schools are given a GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) qualification assessment. A parent may request testing for an older student during the district-wide window. Students who qualify for GATE have the opportunity to enroll in an accelerated program at McKinley or are clustered into specific classrooms at their home elementary school. Students choosing to remain at their home school who are identified as GATE may receive adjusted instruction and assignments within their regular education classroom. GATE instruction varies by school.
Teachers and administration work to ensure that the needs of all GATE students are being met.
The cycle for GATE identification includes information gathering from multiple sources. Students are qualified through a committee process that analyzes multiple criteria including standardized test scores, teacher and parent observations and anecdotes, the student profile, and the results of the CogAT (Cognitive Abilities Test).
