Hemlock Public School District is proud to celebrate National Reading Month with a districtwide commitment to promoting literacy, encouraging community involvement, and reinforcing our belief that reading is truly the gateway to a world of possibilities.
Throughout the month of March, students across the district will experience special guest readers, themed literacy activities, and opportunities to build a lifelong love of reading. This year, we are especially grateful to welcome several community leaders and elected officials as guest readers, including Matthew Bierlein, Kevin Daley, Lindsay Kerry, and Amos O’Neal, who will be visiting classrooms to read with students .
In addition, the Hemlock Public School District Administration Office will temporarily close its doors as the entire administrative team heads to Hemlock Elementary and K.C. Ling Elementary to read to students. We believe leadership starts with modeling what matters — and literacy matters.
“Reading is foundational,” said Superintendent Don Killingbeck. “When we invest time in reading with children, we are investing in their confidence, curiosity, and future success. Literacy opens doors — academically, socially, and economically.”
Board President Matt Wesener emphasized the Board’s commitment to literacy as a district priority.
“As a Board of Education, we believe literacy is the cornerstone of everything we do,” said Wesener. “Strong readers become strong thinkers, problem solvers, and citizens. National Reading Month reminds us that when a community rallies around reading, we are strengthening the future of Hemlock.”
Director of Curriculum and Instruction Lindy Beckman highlighted the instructional importance of reading both at school and at home.
“The research is clear — early and consistent exposure to reading has a lasting impact on student achievement,” said Beckman. “When families read together, vocabulary grows, comprehension improves, and students develop confidence that carries into every content area. Literacy is not just an English class priority; it supports success in math, science, social studies, and beyond.”
Why Literacy Matters
Research consistently reinforces why National Reading Month is more than just a celebration:
Children who are read to regularly are exposed to significantly more words, building vocabulary and comprehension skills critical for academic success.
Students who are proficient readers by the end of third grade are significantly more likely to graduate high school on time.
Reading aloud strengthens brain development, language acquisition, and attention span.
Strong literacy skills correlate with higher earning potential and long-term economic stability.
Simply put, reading changes trajectories.
A Community Call to Action
Hemlock Public School District encourages families and community members to get involved:
Read to your child.
Read to your neighbor.
If you need to borrow a child to read to — just kidding — but we promise we can help you find a classroom.
Community members who would like to serve as guest readers are encouraged to contact:
Hemlock Elementary – 989.642.5283
K.C. Ling Elementary – 989.642.5288
Building leadership teams, including Assistant Principal Sensabaugh and Principal Snider, would be glad to help facilitate reading opportunities for interested volunteers.
At Hemlock, literacy is not just an initiative; it is a commitment woven into our culture. From classrooms to central office, from families to legislators, we are pulling together to ensure every child has the opportunity to develop strong reading skills and a lifelong love of books.
Because when children read, they lead.
For more information about literacy initiatives in Hemlock Public School District, please contact the district office at 989.642.5282.
#PullTheSled #SmallTownBigOpportunities