Best Central Area Public Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 3,009 students in the neighborhood of Central Area, Salem, OR.
The neighborhood of Central Area, Salem, OR public schools have a diversity score of 0.57, which is less than the Oregon public school average of 0.60.
Minority enrollment is 71% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the Oregon public school average of 43% (majority Hispanic).

Best Public Schools in the neighborhood of Central Area, Salem, OR (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Howard Street Charter
Charter School
(Math: 60-64% | Reading: 70-74%)
Rank:
10/
10
Top 5%
625 Marion St Ne
Salem, OR 97301
(503) 399-3408
Gr: 6-8 | 184 students Student-teacher ratio: 184:1 Minority enrollment: 36%
Rank: #22.
Parrish Middle School
(Math: 18% | Reading: 28%)
Rank:
2/
10
Bottom 50%
802 Capitol St Ne
Salem, OR 97301
(503) 399-3210
Gr: 6-8 | 691 students Student-teacher ratio: 22:1 Minority enrollment: 73%
Rank: #33.
North Salem High School
(Math: 9% | Reading: 25%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
765 14th St Ne
Salem, OR 97301
(503) 399-3241
Gr: 9-12 | 2,107 students Student-teacher ratio: 20:1 Minority enrollment: 80%

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public schools in the neighborhood of Central Area, Salem, OR?
The top-ranked public schools in the neighborhood of Central Area, Salem, OR include Howard Street Charter, Parrish Middle School and North Salem High School.
How many public schools are located in the neighborhood of Central Area, Salem?
3 public schools are located in the neighborhood of Central Area, Salem.
What is the racial composition of students in the neighborhood of Central Area, Salem?
the neighborhood of Central Area, Salem public schools minority enrollment is 71% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the Oregon public schools average of 43% (majority Hispanic).

Recent Articles

Gifted, Honors, and Advanced Tracks: Are They Accessible or Just Advertised?
Gifted, Honors, and Advanced Tracks: Are They Accessible or Just Advertised?
Learn how to evaluate gifted, honors, and advanced academic programs in public schools, including admission criteria, equity, and the questions every parent should ask.
Algebra Readiness: What Parents Should Ask Before Middle School
Algebra Readiness: What Parents Should Ask Before Middle School
Discover how to determine if your child is ready for algebra before middle school, including the questions parents should ask and the skills students need to succeed.
How to Evaluate Reading Instruction in Your Zoned Elementary School
How to Evaluate Reading Instruction in Your Zoned Elementary School
Learn how to evaluate reading instruction in your neighborhood elementary school by recognizing effective literacy practices, asking the right questions, and understanding what quality reading instruction looks like.

Quick Links