Salem Elementary School Closure Information
Dear Members of the Salem Elementary School Community,
It is with a heavy heart that I write to inform you of a decision that has not been made lightly. Due to significant budget constraints impacting our district, the Naugatuck Board of Education and I have determined that Salem Elementary School must close at the end of the 2024-2025 school year.
This decision comes after a thorough review of our financial situation. Despite our best efforts to identify alternative solutions, the significant budget shortfalls for the 2025-2026 school year leave us no choice but to consolidate resources. We fully understand the impact this closure will have on our students, families, and the dedicated staff who have contributed so much to our community.
Please be assured that we are committed to supporting everyone affected by this change. In the coming months, we will work closely with you to facilitate a smooth transition for our students, including assistance with school reassignments, counseling services, and other necessary support measures. While there is still much planning to do before we provide individual information regarding school reassignments, we have scheduled the first of a number of meetings to answer questions and provide information as available. The first meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 10, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the auditorium at Naugatuck High School.
Salem School, a cornerstone of downtown Naugatuck, has served our students, our families, and the Naugatuck community for 132 years. Salem School, like all of our elementary schools, is a special place, not because of its walls or architecture or its decor or prominent locale on the green, but because of the students, staff, parents, and community members who partner to create exceptional educational experiences. Members of the Salem community will carry this history and experience with them as they move to their new elementary schools in the 2025-2026 school year. While there will be many changes, what will not change are the exceptional educational experiences, safe and supportive learning environment, and positive culture present in all of our elementary schools.
Thank you for your understanding, cooperation, and continued commitment during these challenging times. Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office directly if you have any immediate questions or need additional support. We look forward to meeting with you throughout the spring to provide additional information.
Sincerely,
Christopher Montini
Superintendent of Schools