High School Instruction

High schools offer core classes as well as a variety of electives. Many classes provide students the opportunity to earn college credits while in high school. Students have an opportunity to earn an Honors, Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate diploma by taking advanced-level courses that demonstrate the ability to succeed in a rigorous curriculum. High schools also offer a wide range of academic clubs and co-curricular activities including music, drama and sports.

In high school, students access required coursework in Math, Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Health, PE, Fine Arts, and Electives in the pursuit of an Oregon Diploma. Diploma requirements can be found in the High School Guide to Graduation linked at right.

Our schools follow the Oregon State Standards for all content areas.

• English Language Art State Standards
• Math State Standards
• Science Standards
• Social Studies Standards
• Health Education Standards

Unless designated as open source, curriculum cannot be posted online due to copyright laws. Please contact your student’s teacher to review and discuss what your student is learning in class.

McKay, McNary, Sprague, and West high schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) programs, known for rigorous college-level curricula and advanced college credit.

AP courses help students acquire the skills and habits needed to be successful in college. AP courses improve writing skills, sharpen problem-solving abilities and develop time management skills, discipline and study habits.

North and South Salem High Schools are International Baccalaureate World Schools.

• North Salem High School – Diploma Programme, Career-Related Programme
• South Salem High School – Diploma Programme

All of our High Schools offer the opportunity to earn college credit while completing high school coursework. Connect with your high school to learn more about offerings.

As part of Oregon’s second-largest school district, Salem-Keizer CTE exists to help students graduate career ready. Through career and technical education, professional skills development, and rigorous coursework, students are prepared for postsecondary success. In partnership with parents, business leaders, and the community, Salem-Keizer CTE challenges all students to explore their potential, experience purposeful education, and excel in the world beyond the classroom.

All of our high schools provide access to Choir, Band, and Orchestra instruction. We are proud of our successful SKPS Music Program!

All of our high schools engage students in their college dreams through Advancement Via Individual Determination programming. Contact your local school for application information. Learn more about AVID on the College & Career Readiness page.

All of our high schools provide access to visual and performing arts education. Contact your local school for more information on course offerings.

Our college and career center professionals and volunteers are eager to help students plan and prepare for college and career opportunities.

Support services provided by our College and Career Centers include:

• College admission process
• Funding higher education and financial aid
• Military enlistment
• Gap year and foreign exchange experiences
• Apprenticeship, internship and work experiences
• Resume, interview skills and work readiness
• Mentorship through ASPIRE
• Career Exploration
• Scholarship Resources & Support
• College Visit Resources & Support

Visit your school’s College and Career Center online:

• Early College High School
• McKay High School
• McNary High School
• North Salem High School
• South Salem High School
• Sprague High School
• West Salem High School
• EDGE students should use their resident school page.