In addition to academics, students have access to a variety of clubs and organizations. The school has a Student Council, which is made up of students and two faculty advisers who work with the administration to solve issues other students may have. Students can join the National Honor Society and the Tri-M,Music Honor Society, in which students can apply during their junior or senior year, along with the National Art Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society, to which students can apply during their sophomore year. The school also offers an extraordinary music department, with programs such as the Marching Band, which is commonly known as The Pride Of The North Shore and "Witch Pitch?" a talented A capella group that has been active for approximately a decade. Salem High School is a member of the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps. "The effects of a Marine Corps JROTC unit extend far beyond the classroom and into the community in developing character, leadership, and civic responsibility. The program makes a difference by keeping kids in school, providing an environment conducive to their personal development and growth, and helping them become productive members of the community." The school has a very high number of absences, exceeding 100 students daily. As of 2016, Mandarin and Arabic were removed from the schools curriculum, although Spanish, French and Latin are still available as language courses. Student Demographics :
White – 40.4%
Hispanic – 45.1%
African-American – 6.8%
Asian – 3.1%
Multi-race – 4.6%
These demographics reflect the city of Salem's growing ethnic diversity.
If a student at Salem High School gets detention, suspension, or any disciplinary actions excluding being expelled, he/she will not be allowed to attend any extracurricular activities until they serve these punishments. This includes prom, social gatherings, and sporting events.
2013 Renovation of Bertram Field
The City Council in Salem approved a $1,900,000 renovation of the existing Bertram Field, which is named after North Shore Medical Center captain, John Bertram. Over the summer of 2013, there was a complete renovation of the entire Bertram Field complex. Construction crews installed a new artificial turf field, a track for running, a scoreboard, and a flagpole. This was an important investment because the field is used by the Salem High School athletics program, in addition to various youth sports programs across from the City of Salem.
2018 Resignation of Longstanding Principal
After a total of 23 years at Salem High School with 12 of those years as Principal of the school, David Angeramo resigned from his position as principal to become associate head of school at St. Mary's High School in Lynn. According to the Superintendent of Salem Public Schools, Margarita Ruiz, he was well liked during his time at the school, but his sudden departure was saddening for various students, teachers and parents.
