The Howard Family - Craig Howard, Kirk Howard, and Janis Treadeau

The Howard Family created this scholarship to honor their father, Cliff Howard, who passed away in 2014.

Clifford Howard was born in Darlington, Wisconsin and graduated from Darlington High School. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps, reporting to Fort Sheridan in Glenview, Illinois. He served with the 8th Air Force in WWII flying as a waist gunner on a B24 Liberator bomber based at Wendling, England with the 392nd bomb group. During World War II, he completed 12 successful bombing missions over Germany. After being discharged in 1946 he signed up for three additional years in the Air Force Reserve.

After returning to the United States, Cliff pursued his passion for education by enrolling at Platteville State Teachers College, graduating in 1950. There he met and married the love of his life, Jean. Together Cliff and Jean returned to Darlington to begin their life and careers.

In 1961 he received his Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Marquette University. His teaching career started by teaching all eight grades in a one room school in Iowa County. He moved to a teaching/principal position at Swallow School in Waukesha County, and then became Administrator for the Union Grove Grade School District in Racine County before moving to the Madison School District in 1965. He served as principal of three Madison schools (Lakewood, Elvehjem and Sandburg) where he retired in 198 after his 35-year career in education.

After retiring Cliff and Jean enjoyed traveling and spending time with family especially at the lake cottage in Tomahawk. Cliff enjoyed reading, working with stained glass and playing guitar as a member of the Valley Guys Duo

Cliff’s life was defined by service—to his country during World War II and to generations of students throughout his distinguished career as an educator. His legacy continues through this scholarship, which reflects his enduring belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of investing in future generations.