Great teachers deserve great support, and Hemlock Public School District is doubling down on that belief. Using Michigan Department of Education (MDE) Section 27h grant funds, the district is revitalizing its new-teacher mentoring program to better support educators as they begin their careers in the classroom.
This investment reflects Hemlock’s continued commitment to professional growth, collaboration, and long-term success for both teachers and students. The redesigned mentoring model moves away from a traditional one-to-one structure and instead embraces a group-based approach that encourages collaboration, shared learning, and meaningful professional connections.
New teachers now engage in supportive learning communities made up of peers and experienced educators. This structure allows educators to learn from multiple perspectives, share best practices, and build strong professional networks early in their careers.
“Our teachers are the heart of everything we do, and supporting them—especially at the beginning of their careers—is essential,” said Board President Matt Wesener. “This redesigned mentoring program is an investment not just in our staff, but in the long-term success of our students and our district as a whole.”
The group-based model fosters collective growth while also helping new teachers build confidence, develop effective instructional practices, and feel a strong sense of belonging within the Hemlock school community.
“This work is about more than mentoring—it’s about retention, growth, and building a culture where educators feel supported and valued,” said Denise Dowdell, Director of Business Operations and Human Resources. “By leveraging 27h grant dollars in this way, we are creating intentional spaces for collaboration and learning that will benefit our teachers and ultimately enhance student outcomes.”
Hemlock Public School District is excited about the positive impact this revitalized mentoring program will have and remains committed to providing the resources and support educators need to thrive.