Serving the
towns of Salem, Hebron, Shushan, Jackson, Greenwich, NY and
Rupert, VT
Washington
Academy, founded in 1780, later becoming Salem Central School, was among the first
secondary schools in New York State. Maintaining quality educational programs has always
been given a high priority. The district's buildings retain the charm of its early
architecture and unique beginning.
The Salem Central School District has a stable enrollment of 509
students, K-12, on one central campus. This includes approximately 28 students
from the neighboring town of Rupert who are enrolled in the secondary level
program as part of a unique relationship with the state of Vermont. The students
in the elementary school are served by classroom teachers, as
well as full-time professional personnel in the areas of art, music, physical education,
and library science.
The K-6 structure offers traditional classes as well as a
departmentalized approach in third, fourth, fifth and sixth grade. Programs in
Reading Recovery and mentoring help to illustrate the emphasis placed on
preparing students to become successful lifelong learners in a competitive society.
Salem's Washington Academy is comprised of grades 7-12 and strives to meet the
needs of all students. More than seventy five percent of the
student body typically chooses to pursue post secondary education. Others seek added
skills training, enter the job market, or enlist in the military.
In the Jr./Sr. High, 28 teachers serve approximately 259
students in academic, occupational,
fine arts, and special education areas. Instruction in a second language
(Spanish) begins in the seventh grade. Highlighting an excellent
agricultural program is an
on-site greenhouse in the high school courtyard. Expanded computer lab
facilities provide
students with the opportunity to develop this important technological
skill. In addition,
Advanced Placement English, History, Psychology, Biology and Calculus
are available to students in their junior
and senior years.