Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) is now accepting applications for its four charter schools for the 2024-25 academic year. These schools are Howard Street Charter School, JGEMS Charter School, Valley Inquiry Charter School, and Optimum Learning Environments Charter School. These schools are publicly funded and operate independently, but are accountable to SKPS both acadically and financially. Admissions are decided annually through a lottery system.
Optimum Learning Environments Charter School serves grades K-5 and focuses on preparing students for a diverse and advancing society. Applications for this school are open from January 18 to February 28, 2024. The lottery draw is on March 6, 2024.
Valley Inquiry Charter School aims to create a primary school that welcomes all children. Applications for the Kindergarten Lottery are open from January 23 to March 8, 2024. The lottery draw will be held virtually on March 21, 2024.
Howard Street Charter School is a public middle school for grades 6-8. It emphasizes a comprehensive education and uses project-based learning. Applications are open from January 8 to March 1, 2024, with a lottery draw on March 12, 2024.