Salem School District

Teamwork in action! These students are building problem-solving skills that last a lifetime.

As education continues to evolve alongside an increasingly digital world, schools are racing to equip students with the technical know-how needed for tomorrow’s jobs. But at Salem School District, there's growing recognition that success in the modern workforce takes more than just tech skills. That’s why the district is putting a renewed focus on “durable skills”—often called soft skills—which are proving to be just as essential for students' futures.

According to the nonprofit America Succeeds, durable skills combine what you know with how you use it. These include critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity—capabilities that employers and colleges alike consistently rank as top priorities.

To ensure students develop these traits, Salem’s strategic planning team is building a “Portrait of a Learner”—a clear vision of the skills every student should have by graduation. The initiative is being shaped through a collaborative process involving local businesses, community leaders, educators, parents, and students.

“It’s essential that we start building these skills early,” said Candice Schmitz, a Salem High School specialist and member of the planning team. “We’re working to define what mastery looks like at every stage—from preschool through high school—so that students, teachers, and families can track growth over time.”

While the future job market may be uncertain, one thing is clear: students who can adapt, problem-solve, and connect with others are best positioned to thrive. “We can’t predict what careers today’s learners will pursue,” Schmitz added, “but we know that durable skills will be key to their success in life, college, and beyond.”