Auburn Elementary School

Auburn Elementary sits in one of Salem's more economically challenged neighborhoods, and its test scores reflect the real difficulties many of its families face day to day. That said, Salem itself has a lot going for it — a growing food scene, proximity to the Willamette Valley wine country, and a tight-knit Latino community that gives parts of the city genuine character. Families who choose Auburn are often deeply rooted in the local community, and the school may be a better fit for those prioritizing neighborhood connection and stability over academic rankings.