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Welcome to O.W. Best Middle School

Dear Best Middle School Students, Families, and Staff,
 
Welcome to a new school year! I am incredibly excited to begin this journey together and look forward to a year filled with learning, growth, new experiences, and many wonderful memories. It is an honor to be part of the O.W. Best Middle School community, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve our students, families, staff and the Dearborn Heights Community.
 
I would like to take a moment to introduce myself. My name is Cheryl Howard, and I am the District 7 Director of Safety/Health and the Principal of O.W. Best Middle School.
 
I grew up in Taylor and graduated from Truman High School. I am very close with my family and friends and enjoy going to the theatre and concerts, visiting museums, vacationing, socializing, and—if you know me well—being on the go! I also have a cat named Sissy, who is very mischievous and absolutely believes she is a dog!
I am honored to be associated with the District 7 community. I began working in District 7 in September of the 2000–2001 school year. Prior to moving to Central Office and building administration, I was a science teacher at both the middle and high school levels. I also had the opportunity to teach at the elementary level. One of the things I have always enjoyed most about education is working with students and watching them grow into confident, curious, and inquisitive learners.
 
My District 7 administrative journey began in 2006 when I became a Dean of Students. I then served as an Assistant Principal for two years before becoming the Principal of Annapolis High School, where I proudly served for seven years.
 
In the 2022–2023 school year, I moved to District 7 Central Office and became the Director of Virtual Learning, Health and Safety. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to continue supporting District 7 in a variety of roles and capacities. This year, I am especially excited to continue that work as the Principal of O.W. Best Middle School while also serving as the District Director of Safety and Health.
 
Education has always been an important part of my life. I earned an Associate in Liberal Arts and an Associate in Science from Henry Ford Community College, a Bachelor of Science from Eastern Michigan University, a Master’s in Educational Leadership, and an Educational Specialist degree in General Education and Supervision at Wayne State University and began my doctoral studies in Curriculum with a focus in administration also at Wayne State University.
 
I am a strong advocate for—and firm believer in—being a lifelong learner. I believe that each day gives us an opportunity to learn something new, become better at what we do, and make a positive difference in the lives of others.
 
At Best Middle School, there is always something happening! We have many activities, clubs, organizations, athletics, and opportunities for students to become involved, build friendships, discover their interests, and develop their talents. I strongly encourage our students to take advantage of all that Best has to offer.
 
As we begin this new school year, my commitment to our students is simple: to help create a school where every student feels safe, welcomed, supported, valued, and excited to learn. I believe that strong relationships, high expectations, kindness, respect, and teamwork are the foundation of a successful school community.
 
I look forward to getting to know our students and families, working alongside our amazing staff, and becoming an even stronger Best Middle School community together. Please know that my door is always open, and I welcome the opportunity to listen, collaborate, and support you.
 
Thank you for allowing me to be part of the Best Middle School family. I am excited about the year ahead and all that we will accomplish together!
 
Welcome back, Best Royal’s! Let’s make it a great year!
 
Go Royal’s! 💙
 
Warmly,
 
Cheryl Howard
Principal, O.W. Best Middle School
District 7 Director of Safety and Health
District 7 Title IX Coordinator 
 
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