Salem district explores reuse of Salerno Center for automotive programs

Salem Public Schools is making significant strides in optimizing its facilities to better serve students and the community, as discussed in the recent Salem School Committee meeting on March 17, 2025. A key decision emerged regarding the future of the high school building and its use for educational programs.

The committee confirmed plans to maintain one classroom for the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program within the high school, rather than converting the entire space into a full preschool facility. This decision allows for continued access to preschool programs at Horace Mann, located nearby, ensuring that students can easily participate in internships and other educational opportunities.

Additionally, the committee addressed the pressing need for adequate district storage space. Currently, the high school serves as a storage hub for various district supplies, including outdoor equipment and food distribution materials. Discussions are underway to explore options for utilizing the automotive center as a storage facility, which would help alleviate space constraints at the high school.

The meeting also highlighted the challenges posed by the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) reimbursement templates, which do not fully meet the district's needs. A proposal to retain the Salerno Center for automotive programs was introduced, allowing the district to focus on building necessary CTE spaces without the need for additional construction.

Furthermore, the committee is looking to take advantage of both core projects and accelerated repairs through the MSBA program, aiming to enhance facilities across the district.

These developments reflect Salem Public Schools' commitment to maximizing educational resources and ensuring that students have access to quality programs and facilities. As the district moves forward, the focus will remain on creating an environment conducive to learning and growth for all students.