The text below is from the letter PCS's Special Services Team received from Sonoma County SELPA (Special Education Local Plan Area).

The Petaluma City Schools Inclusive Education Practice Model Program has been awarded the Spirit of Education award for its exemplary integrated and inclusionary practices to support students with moderate to severe cognitive disabilities throughout the district.

The site visit team observed many of the key elements of effective educational programs identified by the Spirit of Education Committee, formerly known as the Effective Programs Committee, during their visit to an elementary, middle school, and high school campus. It is a true sense of inclusion where students with significant challenges are placed in general education classrooms for the majority of the day with appropriate services and supports. Each student’s specially designed instructional program is crafted around his or her unique needs.