Irene Blackburn-Building Principal
Welcome to William Ford Elementary School! I'd like to share a little information about me.
I come to you with 25 years of experience in education. I earned a bachelor's degree in child
development from Wayne State University, a master's degree in early childhood
administration from Oakland University, and a specialist degree in educational leadership from Eastern
Michigan University.
Before becoming principal of William Ford I served as principal of Salina Elementary School
for five years and as assistant principal for two years prior to that. I am very proud of having started a Science and Technology Theme School at Salina, which was rated as one of the top eight schools in
Michigan for technology integration. I also introduced an ESL program with the focus: How to
help your child be successful in school, at both Salina and William Ford. I am proud of our efforts at William Ford to focus on helping students reach their highest potential, along with a fine, dedicated staff, and parents we can count on as partners in education.
On a personal level, I have two grown daughters, and a granddaughter that my husband, Steve, and I enjoy watching grow. I enjoy reading, walking, and golfing.