From Melissa Strickland
Prattville, AL
Melissa Strickland, a veteran educator and longtime community volunteer, is currently campaigning for Prattville City Council District 1. With more than two decades of service to the people of Prattville, Strickland hopes to bring her experience, dedication, and passion for community development to the City Council in the upcoming election.
Deep Roots and a Heart for Service
Originally from Medford, Oregon, Strickland is the daughter of a career Air Force officer and has called Alabama home since 1992. She built her life in Prattville alongside her husband, James—a fellow teacher, former coach, and military veteran. Together, they’ve raised two daughters and are now proud grandparents to four grandchildren, all of whom live in the Prattville area.
Strickland has taught English and theatre at Prattville Junior High School for 25 years. Her deep connection to the families of District 1 is evident: she now teaches the children of former students and continues to invest in the lives of local youth both in and out of the classroom.
A Platform Built on Education and Family Values
One of Strickland’s core campaign priorities is education. “Strong schools are the foundation of strong communities,” she said. As a teacher who understands the changes Prattville has gone through in the last two decades, Strickland wants to see Prattville’s schools supported—not only for the benefit of students but also for the educators and staff who shape future generations. Her vision for District 1 includes collaboration between schools, families, and city leaders to make education a top priority.
Embracing Community, Culture, and Military Families
Strickland defines community as a space where people of all backgrounds can find belonging, opportunity, and safety. She supports policies that address accessible housing, quality jobs, public safety, and recreation opportunities. As the daughter, granddaughter, and spouse of military veterans, she is especially sensitive to the needs of military families who call Prattville home—whether temporarily or permanently.
An active supporter of the arts, Strickland currently serves as president of the board for Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre. She has worked closely with city staff to expand cultural programming. In addition, she champions athletics and team sports, drawing from her years as a coach’s wife to understand how sports positively impact youth development.
Economic Growth and Transparent Leadership
While most of her professional life has been in public education, Strickland also brings a business-minded perspective. She grew up in a family that owned and managed small businesses and rental properties—experiences that shaped her understanding of economic development and the city’s role in supporting entrepreneurs. If elected, she pledges to prioritize open communication and transparency, especially around budgeting and spending. “Trust between a council member and the people they represent is essential,” she said. “I want to make sure that District 1 residents feel heard, informed, and confident in the decisions being made.”
“I’m running because I care deeply about this community,” she said. “I want to be a voice for the people of District 1—someone who listens, understands, and acts with integrity on their behalf. I’m invested.”
To learn more or to contact Melissa Strickland, visit her official campaign page at melissastrickland16.wixsite.com/elect-strickland or email [email protected].
