Petaluma City Schools Announces New Hires

The Petaluma City Schools district is ushering in the new academic year with several new leadership appointments. According to a report from The Press Democrat, the district officially welcomed new principals at Penngrove Elementary, Grant Elementary, and Casa Grande High schools at their May 27th board meeting, with all expected to begin their roles on July 1st.

Erika Noone, who served as interim principal at Casa Grande High School during the 2024-25 school year, has been appointed as the school’s permanent principal. Noone brings over 15 years of experience in education to her new role, having joined Casa Grande in 2021 as an assistant principal. District officials praised her calm leadership and commitment during a challenging year.

Justin Mori will take the helm as the principal for Carpe Diem and Sonoma Mountain high schools. Mori previously led Petaluma High School and Kenilworth Junior High, and has most recently served as the district’s coordinator of alternative education.

Michael Mori is set to become the new principal of Penngrove Elementary School. He brings a background as a high school biology teacher, assistant principal, and director of universal pre-kindergarten programs. The district highlighted his deep sense of purpose and belief in the transformative power of relationships.

Finally, McCullough, also known as “Ms. Mac,” has been named the new principal at Grant Elementary School. With over 15 years of experience in elementary education and a focus on inclusive learning, Ms. Mac previously served as the founding principal of two public charter schools.