Howard Middle School (Orlando, Florida)

Howard Middle School (Orlando, Florida)

Howard Middle School is a middle school located in Orlando, Florida, United States near the city's downtown(5 miles).

The school, which is a part of the Orange County Public Schools, serves grades 6 through 8.

Howard has a rich history. The school was originally built in 1926, becoming the first school in the area for high school students known as Orlando High School. It was the first desegregated high school in the area as well. The school was transitioned into a junior high school (7th-9th grades) in 1952, when two new high schools (Edgewater High School and William R. Boone High School) were built to relieve the growing population's need for additional education. In 1987, realignment shifted the grades at Howard to 6th-8th, and brought about the current name, Howard Middle School.

The gymnasium was added in the late 30's. In 1984, upon his retirement, the gym was renamed the Robert Cluggish Memorial Gymnasium, in honor of his years of dedication to Howard. Mr. Cluggish served as a teacher, football coach, basketball coach, and athletic director during his 35 years at Howard and was a former player for the New York Knicks.

The cafeteria/band room was added in 1948 and the old OHS letters can still be seen on the southwest corner of the building. In 1952, Orange County Public Schools completed construction of two new high schools, originally named Orlando South High School and Orlando North High School, later named Boone and Edgewater. The former OHS building was then renamed for Mr. Clarence.E. Howard, a school trustee of earlier years, what are now called School Board members.

Thus Howard Junior High School was established, with J.B. Bookhardt as principal. The school colors of blue and red and the Ranger mascot were selected. The first hat and boot logo used was designed by the husband of Mrs. Doris Verigan, a former assistant principal and the only female principal the school has had. Principal Robert E. King died in April and Mrs. Verigan completed the school year as interim-principal. Our current hat and boot logo was designed by art teacher Clinton McCracken. The media center was added in 1984. This one-story building was constructed in the courtyard area in the center of the main building.

In 1987, with the conversion to middle school, the name changed once again and Howard Junior High became Howard Middle School. Glen Terry was the first principal in Howard Middle School, followed by former Superintendent Ron Blocker.

The school was renovated in 2000. For eighteen months the entire school operated in 52 portables located on our athletic field. Because it is a historical site, only interior changes could be made to the original buildings. In March of 2001, students and staff moved back into a 21st century school.

Howard continues to be a leader in the field of education. In October, 2011 the Orange County School Board designated Howard as a magnet school. The Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts will lead students on a path toward creative and academic excellence and prepare them for successful high school and college careers.

Howard MS was awarded the 5 Star School Award in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009, recognizing the significant role that community contributions play in working with students. In addition, Howard earned its first "A" School Grade by the Florida Department of Education in 2008 and continued with another "A" in 2009. In October, 2009, Howard Middle School was designated as an AVID National Demonstration School.