Petaluma Schools Chief Cites Budget Woes, Family Reasons for Resignation

Superintendent Matthew Harris to step down after 14 years leading the district

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:12am

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a school bus icon in vibrant neon hues, conceptually representing the transition and challenges facing the Petaluma school district.The resignation of Petaluma's long-serving schools chief reflects the complex challenges facing public education, from tight budgets to personal sacrifices.Petaluma Today

Petaluma City Schools Superintendent Matthew Harris announced he will resign at the end of the school year, citing ongoing budget constraints that have hampered his goals, as well as a desire to spend more time with his family. Harris, who has led the district for 14 years, said the personal toll of the job has become too great to justify the sacrifices at home.

Why it matters

Harris' departure comes at a critical time for the district, which is facing a projected $6 million budget reduction for the 2026-27 school year and the likelihood of further cuts. His resignation raises questions about the district's future leadership and whether the next superintendent will prioritize expansive program funding or cautious budgeting in the face of ongoing fiscal stress.

The details

In a message to the community, Harris wrote that he is stepping down with 'mixed emotions' after 14 years with Petaluma City Schools, including the last five as superintendent. He cited the district's budget constraints and his desire to be more present for his five children as the primary reasons for his resignation. Harris noted he does not have another job lined up and hasn't begun pursuing new opportunities yet.

  • Harris announced his resignation on April 13, 2026.
  • His last day as superintendent will be June 30, 2026.

The players

Matthew Harris

The outgoing superintendent of Petaluma City Schools, who has led the district for 14 years.

Petaluma City Schools

The public school district serving the city of Petaluma, California.

Petaluma Promise

A partnership between Petaluma City Schools and Sonoma State University that aims to provide a clearer path to higher education for PCS students.

Measure I

A $129-per-year parcel tax that appeared on the November 2025 ballot in Petaluma, which was narrowly defeated, leaving the district facing significant fiscal challenges.

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What they’re saying

“With mixed emotions, I am stepping down as superintendent of Petaluma City Schools, effective June 30.”

— Matthew Harris, Outgoing Superintendent

“The personal toll of the job has become too great to justify the sacrifices at home.”

— Matthew Harris, Outgoing Superintendent

What’s next

The Petaluma City Schools Board of Education will begin the process of selecting a new superintendent to lead the district through its fiscal challenges and transition to new leadership.

The takeaway

Harris' resignation highlights the difficult balancing act facing school district leaders, who must navigate tight budgets, community expectations, and personal commitments. The next superintendent will need to chart a course that addresses the district's financial realities while also maintaining a vision for student success and community engagement.