Hemlock Public School District is proud to announce that Jodi Tack, a fourth-grade teacher at K.C. Ling Elementary School, has been selected as the 2026 Hemlock Business Association Public Educator of the Year. The award recognizes educators whose passion, commitment, and impact extend far beyond the classroom, helping shape both students and the community they call home. She will be formally recognized during the Hemlock Community Club's Party in the Park celebration on August 13th.
For those who know Jodi, the announcement comes as no surprise.
Every day, she creates a classroom where students feel challenged, supported, and genuinely known. She believes relationships come before rigor, but never at the expense of high expectations. Her students don't simply learn reading, writing, and mathematics. They learn confidence, perseverance, kindness, and the belief that they can accomplish difficult things.
Earlier this year, Tack was also named Hemlock Public School District's 2026 Elementary Teacher of the Year, recognizing her exceptional instructional practices and unwavering commitment to student success.
"Jodi has an incredible ability to connect with kids," said Cory Snider, Principal of K.C. Ling Elementary. "She creates a classroom where students feel safe to take risks, work hard, and believe in themselves. She brings energy, positivity, and a relentless commitment to helping every child succeed. Whether it's a struggling learner who needs encouragement or a student ready to be pushed to the next level, Jodi meets them where they are and helps them grow. She represents everything that's great about K.C. Ling Elementary."
Superintendent Don Killingbeck said Tack exemplifies the very best of public education.
"Great schools are built one classroom at a time, and great classrooms are built by extraordinary teachers," Killingbeck said. "Jodi has a remarkable gift for inspiring young people while building meaningful relationships with them and their families. She leads with humility, teaches with purpose, and loves kids unconditionally. Her influence reaches far beyond a single school year, and this recognition is a fitting tribute to the difference she makes every day."
For Tack, the recognition reflects the people she serves alongside.
"I am truly honored and incredibly grateful," Tack said. "Teaching has always been about the students. Every day they inspire me to be a better teacher, and I am blessed to work alongside amazing colleagues, supportive families, and administrators who believe in doing what's best for kids. This award is something I will treasure, but it really belongs to everyone who makes K.C. Ling such a special place."
The Hemlock Business Association's Public Educator of the Year award celebrates educators who demonstrate excellence in the classroom while strengthening the connection between schools and the community. It recognizes individuals whose dedication leaves a lasting impact on students and helps make Hemlock an even better place to live, learn, and grow.
As the community gathers for Party in the Park, it will celebrate more than an outstanding teacher. It will celebrate a servant leader whose passion, kindness, and unwavering belief in children continue to shape the next generation of Huskies.
Congratulations, Jodi Tack, on being named the 2026 Hemlock Business Association Public Educator of the Year. Your impact extends far beyond the walls of your classroom, and the entire Huskie Pack is proud to celebrate this well-deserved honor.