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Salem-Keizer School District is considering closing up to eight elementary schools in 2027 amid community concerns over academic impacts.

National experts note that past closures have temporarily lowered test scores (research by Bates College professor Mara Tieken) and urge a careful review before changes take effect.

A Marion County Grand Jury report released Sept.

30 found Oregon State Hospital in Salem lacks enough staff, training and stable leadership + the report calls for better safety measures for both patients and employees. The Oregon Health Authority says ongoing changes aim to address these issues.

Salem-Keizer closed Hazel Green and four other elementary schools in 2011 due to budget cuts.

Some former school buildings were demolished or have been repurposed as private and charter schools, showing a lasting impact on the community.

A billboard on Commercial Street features local resident Brendon Bennett's portrait as part of a national fentanyl awareness campaign.

An event in South Salem on Saturday, Oct. 10 will distribute Narcan and recovery resources.

Salem-Keizer Public Schools will release a list on Friday, Oct.

9, recommending up to eight elementary schools for possible closure after evaluating all 42 schools. The recommendations go to the school board on Oct. 13 and final decisions will come on Dec. 8.

Capital Manor is hosting two cohorts of eight nursing students from Corban University as part of a program to train more nurses in long-term elder care in West Salem (as demand grows with aging baby boomers).

Salem Reporter’s investigation into Salem-Keizer Public Schools staffing trends used two decades of district records (showing that classified staff drove much of the over 1,000-staff increase), highlighting long-term changes in the system.

Senior Jolee McMahan unveiled a mural at South Salem High School in September to remind students that it is OK to struggle with mental health and seek support - her art speaks a universal language.