Aila Boyd
aboyd@mainstreetnewspapers.com
During the Aug. 12 meeting of the Salem City School Board, a cohort of students and athletes who have brought distinction to the division through their achievements in and out of the classroom were honored.
Board members issued formal recognition to participants in this summer’s “Forge the Future” manufacturing career exploration program. The board praised the students for their professionalism, initiative and strong work ethic while working alongside area manufacturers.
Industry partners supporting the program included Alro Steel, Altec, Appalachian Power Company, Integer, Mersen, New Millennium and Wabtec. The companies provided students with jobsite placement, financial backing and hands-on activities to help expose them to potential career pathways. The board also thanked the Greater Roanoke Workforce Development Board, which presented students with checks in recognition of their work this summer.
In addition, board members passed a resolution saluting the 2025 Salem High School boys lacrosse team, which claimed the program’s first Class 4 state title with an 11–7 victory over Loudoun County on June 14 in Charlottesville. The Spartans capped the year with a 17–3 record after going 17–1 in 2024, securing the regional championship with a 14–3 win over Jefferson Forest before defeating Broad Run 9–4 in the quarterfinal and Atlee 7–5 in the semifinal. Coaches and players were honored under Resolution 271.
Later in the meeting, the board unanimously approved on second reading the Division Goals and Objectives for the 2025–26 school year.
The annual goals, framed within the division’s six-year comprehensive plan, guide both work priorities and the superintendent’s evaluation. Core values include commitment to excellence, recognizing student and staff differences, and emphasizing shared responsibility for student success with parents and community partners.
Goals for the upcoming year were grouped under three themes — Teaching and Learning, Climate and Culture, and Professional Development — and include implementing the division’s K–8 literacy plan, improving behavior management programs, expanding professional learning opportunities for staff and addressing school security and mental health needs. Superintendent Curtis Hicks will report on progress in October and March.
