Salem Academy Honored as Massachusetts School of Recognition at State House Ceremony

Salem Academy Charter School Honored as Massachusetts School of Recognition at State House Ceremony for strong MCAS growth and reductions in chronic absenteeism.

Salem Academy Charter School (SACS) was honored this week at a State House ceremony hosted by the Healey-Driscoll Administration for being named a 2025 School of Recognition. SACS was one of 63 schools statewide recognized for demonstrating high achievement, significant improvement, and/or strong student growth through the state accountability system.

“It’s important to recognize the good work happening in Massachusetts schools,” said Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts. “I hope the teachers, staff, and school community for each School of Recognition will take pride in this honor.”

Salem Academy earned the distinction based on its continued progress in English Language Arts and mathematics achievement, strong student growth, improved graduation outcomes, and a sustained reduction in chronic absenteeism. Compared to other middle-high schools across the Commonwealth, Salem Academy ranked in the 86th percentile overall.

“This recognition reflects the collective effort of our students, families, and staff,” said Stephanie Callahan, Executive Director of Salem Academy Charter School. “We are deeply focused on building a school community where students feel supported, challenged, and connected. Being recognized by DESE affirms that our work—strengthening academics while fostering belonging and engagement—is making a real difference for students.”

Through Massachusetts’ statewide accountability system, Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education evaluates schools using multiple measures, including achievement, growth, graduation rates, and chronic absenteeism. Schools recognized this year represent a diverse range of communities and grade levels across the state.

Academic Growth and Student Achievement

During the 2024–2025 school year, Salem Academy posted notable gains across grade levels on the MCAS, even after the exam was removed as a statewide graduation requirement. Middle school students demonstrated strong improvement, with sixth grade increasing by 20 percentage points in the share of students meeting or exceeding expectations in Math, and eighth grade posting gains of more than 10 percentage points in ELA, Math, and Science.

High school students also made meaningful progress. Tenth grade Math proficiency increased by more than 10 percentage points, and Student Growth Percentiles rose in six of eight tested areas, including a 20-point increase in Math 10 SGP, from 52 to 72. Students in grades 6–8 outperformed statewide peers in multiple subject areas, while Upper School students exceeded state targets for both academic growth and graduation rates.

“These results reflect our mission in action,” said Drea Jacobs, Senior Director of Academics. “Our students are rising to high expectations, and our educators are committed to using data, collaboration, and relationships to support every learner. Being recognized by the Commonwealth affirms our belief that rigorous academics and personalized supports go hand in hand.”

Sustained Progress in Reducing Chronic Absenteeism

In addition to academic gains, Salem Academy has made steady progress in reducing chronic absenteeism each year since 2022. Through a tiered system of supports, proactive family communication, and early intervention with students, the school has strengthened attendance and engagement—key factors in long-term student success.

Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll noted that “successful schools build a sense of belonging for students, families, and staff and make it possible for students to do their best,” a reflection of the work taking place daily at Salem Academy.

Salem Academy Charter School is a tuition-free public charter school serving 480 students in grades 6–12. The school offers a rigorous college-preparatory program with robust academic, athletic, and enrichment opportunities, while intentionally removing barriers to participation and access.