Administration
Phillip Howard - Principal
For Mr. Howard, Melvindale is simply home. After growing up in Melvindale and spending his school days in the MelNAP school system, Howard returned to his hometown for his entire career in education.
During his time as a student, Howard’s favorite subject in school was history and his favorite teacher was Mr. Packard who he called a great teacher and awesome person. Outside of the classroom, Howard excelled at sports. He spent two and a half years on the varsity football team, three years on the varsity basketball team and two years on the varsity baseball team. That passion led to a long coaching career as well; 19 years in football and five years each in baseball and basketball.
After graduation, Howard headed off to Eastern Michigan University where he majored in Business Services and Technology Education. For his Masters degree, he attended Wayne State for Educational Leadership.
His 23 years at Melvindale have been divided into two areas at Strong. His first eight years were in the classroom where he taught a variety of computer classes and he has been in administration for the last 15 years.
When he’s not at work, Howard enjoys spending time with his family, watching Michigan sports, exercising and spending time at the lake house doing water sports.
Michelle Kirk - Assistant Principal
Welcome to Strong Middle School!
I am Ms. Michelle Kirk, and I am the Assistant Principal at Strong Middle School. I have been teaching in Melvindale at both the elementary and middle school levels since 1997 and have loved working with the students and families along the way. I am excited to be in administration at such a wonderful school filled with amazing teachers, a helpful staff, and enthusiastic students!
I received the majority of my education from Michigan State University and hold a Bachelor's Degree in Education and a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. I later continued my education and passion for leadership and attained a Specialist's Degree in Educational Leadership from Eastern Michigan University. I continue my professional development and consider myself to be an active, lifelong learner.
Although education is extremely important, I believe that being a well-rounded, respectful, confident problem solver is critical in today's world. Our students represent our families, our school, and our community. It is important that they leave Strong Middle School with the skills to be successful in high school and their futures, and I expect them to represent themselves well in both the school and community. I plan to work with students, staff, and families to ensure that our students receive a good education, useful problem solving skills, and become respectful, productive members of the community.
In my spare time, I enjoy music, the outdoors, gardening, reading, watching sports, and spending time with family and friends. I have two incredible daughters and a small rescue dog that keep me very busy! I feel very fortunate to work in Melvindale and at Strong Middle School. We are going to have a wonderful year! It is always a great day to be a Cardinal!