Petaluma City Schools Superintendent Matthew Harris has announced he’s stepping down at the end of the school year, marking the end of a 14-year run with the district.
The Petaluma Argus-Courier reports Harris, who took the helm in 2021, says the decision is “bittersweet” but comes as the district faces a grueling $6 million budget shortfall following the failure of a local parcel tax last November.
In a heartfelt message to families, Harris admitted the job has taken a toll on his health and his family, and noted that the current need to dismantle programs due to the fiscal crisis requires a different kind of leadership.
While he has no immediate job plans, Harris says he and his family will remain in Petaluma, and he’s committed to ensuring a smooth transition for the district through June 30th.
