Over the past several years, Hemlock Public School District has consistently demonstrated remarkable improvements in fiscal management. Transforming from a position of financial uncertainty to being the standard set by the Michigan Association of School Boards and Michigan School Business Officials, the district now stands out as a district to follow.
Board President Matt Wesener remarked, "The continuous progress we've seen in our financial standing is a testament to our collective commitment and unwavering focus. We've not only righted the ship but are now steering a course towards sustained financial stability and growth."
Navigating the intricacies of school finance, which often involves managing diverse funding streams with distinct spending requirements, is no small feat. The district has developed a recommended level of general fund balance as a safety net for its operations and payroll commitments.
Board Treasurer Jamie Rivette shared, "Our relentless efforts to revitalize the district's finances have solidified Hemlock Public Schools District's financial foundation. This significant achievement means we can avoid borrowing funds to pay our dedicated educators and valued team members, saving money in the process. Our community's support and our employees' teamwork have been instrumental in this positive shift, and we are eager to maintain this financial health in the years ahead."
Notably, for the fifth consecutive school year, the district did not need to resort to borrowing to meet payroll obligations. This shift, once unprecedented, has now become a trend, with no borrowing necessary for the 2019-2020, 2020-2021, 2021-2022, 2022-2023, and now the 2023-2024 school years. While borrowing is relatively common in Michigan's K-12 public education, avoiding it allows the district to save between $10-40k per year that can be redirected towards educational efforts.
Superintendent Killingbeck stated, "At Hemlock Public School District, our commitment is to prioritize our students by ensuring sound fiscal practices and making the most of our resources. The exemplary leadership of our Board of Education is evident in our ongoing investments in professional development, curriculum, and staffing, all aimed at securing the best outcomes for our students."