Built in 1893, Salem Elementary School is the oldest operating school in Naugatuck. Bequeathed to the town by John Howard Whittemore, who also funded the Hillside Middle School and Howard Whittemore Library among others, Salem has supported grades K-4 since around 1950.
Children at this downtown school are instructed in a curriculum that includes math, science, language arts and social studies. Because of its central location, Salem School students will spend some of their instructional time outside the school walls, visiting the Naugatuck Historical Society, the Howard Whittemore Library and the firehouse. The mayor and the local state representative also come to the school and read to the students.
The school's Flag Day ceremony is also a well-attended event, known among Naugatuck residents. The current principal is Principal Jennifer Kruge. She can be reached via e-mail at krugej@naugy.net.