For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public elementary schools serving 351 students in Salem, SD.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Salem, SD are Goldenview Colony School - 04, Mccook Central Elementary - 02 and Mccook Central Middle School - 03. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Salem, SD public elementary schools have an average math proficiency score of 37% (versus the South Dakota public elementary school average of 43%), and reading proficiency score of 41% (versus the 49% statewide average). Elementary schools in Salem have an average ranking of 3/10, which is in the bottom 50% of South Dakota public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 10% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the South Dakota public elementary school average of 36% (majority American Indian).
Best Public Elementary Schools in Salem, SD (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Goldenview Colony School - 04
(Math: <50% | Reading: 40-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
25473 438th Ave
Salem, SD 57058
(605) 425-2264
Salem, SD 57058
(605) 425-2264
Gr: K-8 | 28 students Student-teacher ratio: 28:1
Rank: #22.
Mccook Central Elementary - 02
(Math: 40-49% | Reading: 30-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
200 E Essex
Salem, SD 57058
(605) 425-2264
Salem, SD 57058
(605) 425-2264
Gr: PK-4 | 208 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 11%
Rank: #33.
Mccook Central Middle School - 03
(Math: 30-34% | Reading: 40-44%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
200 E Essex
Salem, SD 57058
(605) 425-2264
Salem, SD 57058
(605) 425-2264
Gr: 5-8 | 115 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 12%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in Salem, SD?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Salem, SD include Goldenview Colony School - 04, Mccook Central Elementary - 02 and Mccook Central Middle School - 03.
How many public elementary schools are located in Salem?
3 public elementary schools are located in Salem.
What is the racial composition of students in Salem?
Salem public elementary schools minority enrollment is 10% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the South Dakota public elementary schools average of 36% (majority American Indian).
Recent Articles
Esports Programs in Public Schools: Benefits & Funding
Explore how esports programs in public schools support academic achievement, boost student engagement, and operate through sustainable funding models and partnerships.
Apprenticeship Pathways in High School: Alternatives to College
Explore apprenticeship pathways in high school as practical alternatives to traditional college routes, including benefits, programs, and career outcomes.
FAFSA Changes and High School College Counseling
Explore how recent FAFSA changes are reshaping high school college counseling, financial aid planning, and what families should expect in the 2026 application cycle.