Hemlock Public School District is proud to announce that long-time educator Ms. Donna Schantz has been named the 2025 Mridha Foundation Teacher of the Year. This prestigious honor is awarded annually through the Saginaw Intermediate School District to recognize excellence in education and celebrate the enduring impact of outstanding teachers across the region.
Established in 2010, the Mridha Foundation created this award to honor the legacy of educators in the Mridha family and to support teachers who exemplify excellence in the classroom. Recipients of the award are selected from local districts within the Saginaw ISD and receive a grant that may be used for continuing education, professional development, or educational research.
Ms. Schantz, currently a Kindergarten teacher at Hemlock Elementary, has served the district for nearly 30 years. Throughout her career, she has taught Pre-K, Kindergarten, and a 4th/5th grade split, consistently showing her ability to reach students across a wide range of developmental stages.
Principal Corey Snider, who nominated Schantz for the award, shared, “When considering educators who inspire students to reach beyond their expectations, Donna Schantz immediately comes to mind. Donna is not only a highly skilled and compassionate educator, she is a force of inspiration who consistently goes above and beyond her role to empower every child she teaches.”
Ms. Schantz is known for creating a classroom culture that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence. She has been a leader beyond the classroom as well, including her work with the school’s LEGO League, where she engages students in hands-on problem solving, teamwork, and creativity.
“Her impact has been felt across years of Hemlock Huskies,” Snider added. “She’s helped shape not only academic foundations but also the confidence, resilience, and joy of learning in every child who has walked through her door.”
District leaders also praised Schantz’s recognition. Superintendent Dr. Don Killingbeck noted, “Donna Schantz represents the very best of what it means to be an educator. Her dedication, skill, and genuine care for her students have left a lasting mark on our school and community.”
Board of Education President Matt Wesener echoed those sentiments, “We’re incredibly proud of Donna. Her recognition is well-deserved, and her work continues to be an amazing example of the values and excellence we strive for throughout the district.”
Ms. Schantz’s selection as the 2025 Mridha Foundation Teacher of the Year not only highlights her individual contributions but also reflects Hemlock Public School District’s continued focus on recognizing and supporting exceptional educators who make a lasting impact on students and the community.