As we close out 2025, Hemlock Public School District is reflecting on a year filled with forward momentum—new opportunities for students, major facility progress, strong community partnerships, and countless moments of Huskie pride.
This year’s milestones tell a clear story: when a community invests in kids, great things happen. In 2025, we celebrated the people and moments that define Hemlock—ribbon cuttings that opened new doors, honors that recognized excellence, and milestones that reflected the heart of our Huskie community.
“Each step we took in 2025 was about building a stronger future for our students—academically, emotionally, and through opportunities that prepare them for life beyond our walls. I’m proud of our team and grateful for a community that continues to believe in what Hemlock can be,” said Superintendent Don Killingbeck.
Here are each month’s highlights at a glance:
January:
K.C. Ling Elementary Celebrates the Return of Staff, Students, and Families
Board of Education advances Major Renovations at Hemlock High School
Elementary playground upgrades announced for Hemlock Elementary and K.C. Ling
Hemlock Partners with Michigan State Police to Provide Free Gun Locks
Hemlock Introduces Cadet Teaching Program to Inspire Future Educators
February:
Double the STEM Star Power: Hemlock Elementary Teachers Honored with Prestigious Award
Hemlock Celebrates One Year of Partnership with Richland Township Public Safety
Hemlock Celebrates and Bids Farewell to Principal Josh Chase
Hemlock continues to shine at 34th Annual Zehnder’s Snowfest
Esports Initiative Expands with New Competitive Gaming Space
K.C. Ling Elementary Student Council Spreads Valentine’s Day Cheer to Local Senior Citizens
March:
Board of Education honors Rae Ann Woodcock and Denise Dowdell
Middle School Student Council Hosts Leadership Collaboration Day
House Representative Tim Kelly Kicks Off March is Reading Month at K.C. Ling Elementary
Lockwood STEM Center hosts MMTC board and Congresswoman McDonald Rivet
Saginaw ISD Deputy Superintendent Dr. Erin Senkowski Shares Love of Reading
Saginaw ISD Leader Ignites Love of Reading at Hemlock Elementary Schools
April:
Spotlight: Early Middle College | Value + Strategy for Families
Kettering University + Lockwood STEM Center Partner to Expand STEM Opportunities
8 Student-athletes Celebrated for Continuing at the Collegiate Level
May:
Hemlock Unveils the KEEL Innovation Center at Lockwood STEM Center
Patrick Wolgast Fieldhouse Project Moves Forward After USDA Approval
June:
July:
Hemlock Welcomes Laura Trombley as Director of the Lockwood STEM Center
Hemlock Names Noreen Zastrow as Middle School Athletic Director
Donna Schantz named 2025 Mridha Foundation Teacher of the Year
Hemlock Teacher Tiffany Green Named Educator of the Year by Hemlock Business Association
August:
Hemlock Announces Board Transition and Thanks Trustee Hilary House
“From Classroom to College” Spotlight: Dana Lockwood + Samantha Hales
September:
Hemlock Celebrates Ms. Donna Schantz as 2025 Mridha Foundation Teacher of the Year
District Strengthens Mental Health and Student Support Services
Hemlock Early Childhood Center Announces Sarah Bradd as New Director
October:
HPSD Completes 2024–2025 Annual Independent Audit performed by Weinlander Fitzhugh
Principals Month | Honoring Building Leaders Who Serve “One Person at a Time”
Pathways in Action | Hemlock Expands Arts, STEM & Esports from Elementary through High School
Stop the Bleed | Lifesaving Kits Now on Hemlock School Buses
Future Leaders Take Flight | Hemlock Students Shine at MASSP Middle Level Liftoff
Hemlock Elementary Launches Expanded Meal Program for Early Childhood Students
November:
Hemlock Expands Academic & Extracurricular Opportunities to Boost Belonging, Readiness, and Results
School of Choice | Dates, Why Families Pick Hemlock + How To Enroll
Board of Education Continues Campus Tour with December Visit to Hemlock High School
December:
Hemlock Launches the Hemlock Sneakers Club to Promote Simple, Social Wellness for All Ages
Federal Investment Identified to Expand Early Childhood + Childcare Infrastructure
Hemlock Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for New Legend Gymnasium at Hemlock High School
Lindy Beckman Recognized as an Award Winner in District Administration’s DALI Women of Distinction
Hemlock Highlights Moody’s Aa3 Issuer Rating in Latest Credit Metrics Update
Hemlock Public School District steps into 2026 with strong footing and a clear direction—continuing to build meaningful opportunities for students, invest in programs that prepare them for what’s next, and strengthen the bonds that make our community feel like home.