Expanding Academic Excellence: Black & African Histories

North Salem High School Expanding Academic Opportunities

North Salem High School is leading the way in expanding academic opportunities in Salem-Keizer Public Schools by pioneering the district’s first Black & African Histories class at North Salem High School.

The year-long course, designed to provide a deeper understanding of history through a Black perspective, has garnered a high level of student interest and engagement that the course has now been expanded to be offered in two sections throughout the year.

Research shows that cultural relevance and representation in school curriculum is associated with all sorts of positive outcomes for students, including attendance, graduation rates, self-image and understanding cultural differences. We are proud to offer these opportunities for all students while receiving a quality education in our schools.
Danielle Neves, Deputy Superintendent of Secondary Education

Engaging Students in Their Learning

The class is led by veteran educator, Lynsey Turner, and fosters a learning environment where all students are challenged to critically examine history, ask meaningful questions and explore the complexities of race, culture and identity in our history. The course engages students in rigorous academic work, including research projects, documentary analysis and discussions with guest speakers.

By expanding courses like Black & African Histories, Salem-Keizer Public Schools continues to prioritize academic excellence, ensuring all students have access to high-quality, inclusive education that not only deepens historical knowledge but also inspires curiosity, empathy and strong relationships among students, and our diverse community.

Coursework to Support All Students

According to the most recent data released by the Oregon Department of Education, students from the Class of 2024 who identify as Black or African American, graduated at a rate of 17.7 percentage points greater than the previous year. This represents a total increase of more than 28 percentage points over the previous two years.

At a districtwide graduation rate of 83.05%, SKPS Black or African American students also surpassed the state average for all students for the first time in at least eight years.

Through a diverse set of courses available to our students, such as African American Histories, we have seen a positive connection for our students. We know that when students find a personal connection to their coursework such as we have seen in this class, they often have a deeper connection to the lesson. This leads to higher engagement from students, and ultimately greater success toward high school graduation.
Larry Ramirez, Director of High Schools

Salem-Keizer Public Schools is committed to supporting Black and African American students and believes in the enrichment of all students through embracing, celebrating, honoring and educating all in our school communities about Black history and culture.