Most people around Hemlock know Dr. Katherine Ellison simply as “Katie”—a proud Huskie, a passionate lifelong learner, and a steady advocate for public education. Katie serves on the Hemlock Public School District Board of Education and also as President of the Saginaw Intermediate School District Board of Education, bringing a unique blend of local roots and big-picture perspective to every conversation.
Katie and her husband, Philip, are Hemlock through and through—middle school sweethearts, Hemlock High School alums, and now parents raising their family right where their story started. Philip (Class of 2001) owns Outside Legal Counsel, a law firm in Hemlock. Katie (Class of 2000) and Phil have one son, Patton, who attends K.C. Ling Elementary, and a border terrier named Hudson—who, while a terrier by birth, is a Huskie by choice.
What inspired you to serve on the Hemlock Board of Education?
For Katie, service has always been personal. When she and Phil moved back to the Hemlock area after completing their education, she knew she wanted to give back in a meaningful way. With her background in education and her belief in volunteerism, serving on the school board felt like the natural place to lean in.
What’s one moment from the past year that made you especially proud to be a Huskie?
Katie will tell you it’s not one “big moment.” She’s been proud to be a Hemlock Huskie since kindergarten—back to Mrs. Hoffman’s class—and what brings her the most pride now are the little moments: walking around campus and seeing how far the district has come, imagining what those improvements will mean for Patton someday, noticing growth in programs like band and curriculum, and seeing staff enjoying their work and building great experiences for kids. She also loves watching other parents and community members feel that same awe and pride—because in Hemlock, pride tends to spread.
In your view, what sets Hemlock Public School District apart?
Without hesitation: the community. Katie believes Hemlock has amazing staff, awesome students, and outstanding facilities—but what makes HPSD special is the “whole package,” where families, businesses, and community members support the district in a way that feels united and real. In Hemlock, people don’t just attend the school—they rally around it.
What’s a goal or area of growth you’re excited to see unfold this year?
Katie is especially excited about the growth and continued improvement of the Early Childcare Center, including the possibility of expansion. It’s a district priority she’s been closely involved with as a board member—and it’s personal, too, since Patton has been part of the program since he was three months old. She recognizes early education and childcare as one of the most pressing needs across Michigan communities, and she’s proud Hemlock is working to meet that need with intention.
What’s one thing you’ve learned about public education since joining the board?
After nearly 12 years of board service, Katie has learned a lot—but one belief stands out: public education remains one of the best opportunities for every student, in every circumstance, to build a better future. No matter the barriers a student faces, she’s seen how the people in education—their kindness, support, and commitment—can change the direction of a child’s life.
What HPSD value—innovate, collaborate, educate—resonates with you most right now, and why?
Right now, Katie says collaborate. As Hemlock brings new and improved facilities fully online, she’s eager to continue working with the community and outside groups to ensure those spaces serve more than just the school day. The bond renewal work was built on listening and partnering with the community—now, she’s excited to put that shared vision into action and help make district facilities a true resource for everyone.
A Huskie story that keeps growing
Katie’s academic path reflects her love of learning and her dedication to the craft of education: a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education (Central Michigan University, 2003), a Master of Arts in History (Central Michigan University, 2006), and a Doctorate in American History (Western Michigan University, 2013). She’s also a former college professor—experience that helps her bring an “ahead of the curve” perspective to preparing students for the future.
Katie is also quick to name what’s real: the biggest challenge facing schools today is funding. She notes that Michigan schools have been historically underfunded, creating constant pressure for districts. But she’s proud that Hemlock stays focused on kids and finds ways to build an incredible program—leveraging grants to support technology like the district’s 1:1 program, investing in innovation like the Lockwood STEM Center, and partnering with the community through tools like the sinking fund to maintain and improve facilities.
Interesting Fact
Katie was in the last group of freshmen at Hemlock High School to learn typing on a typewriter—proof that Huskies have been adapting to change (and mastering new tools) for a long time.
In the end, Katie’s message is simple and steady: Hemlock is the heart and soul of this community, and the reason it works is because people truly care—about students, about each other, and about the place they call home. In Hemlock, you don’t need “more” to do big things. You need commitment, collaboration, and a community that puts kids first.