Since it makes predictions that are testable, evolution is science in the strictest sense. There are observations that would cause the modern theory of evolution to be found false and either modified or abandoned. I assume when you refer to science in its strict sense, you mean that it must be concerned only with what is directly observable. If that's the case, then the heliocentric model of the solar system, the general theory of relativity, quantum mechanics, string theory, the standard model of subatomic particles and various other scientific ideas must not be science in the strict sense. If I have assumed incorrectly, then please define what you mean by science in the strict sense.
To the extent theories of evolution make testable predictions they are no different from any other science. I hardly think this is the issue. The issue is when evolution theories overstep their bounds to indulge in fanciful notions of history apart from any observation or testing whatsoever.