As Hemlock Public School District continues sharing factual information about the November ballot proposals, district leaders are emphasizing the role school funding plays in supporting student learning and educational opportunities.
District officials say every conversation about public education ultimately comes back to one question: What does this mean for students?
Throughout the district, students participate in a wide range of academic, athletic, fine arts, STEM, leadership, and career exploration opportunities designed to help them grow, develop new skills, and prepare for life after graduation.
Providing those opportunities requires qualified staff, educational programs, transportation, technology, safe learning environments, and well-maintained facilities.
On the November ballot, voters will consider two separate renewal proposals that support different aspects of the district's funding structure.
The first proposal is the renewal of the district's non-homestead operating millage. Under Michigan's school funding system, the millage applies to commercial, industrial, rental, and other non-homestead properties and does not apply to owner-occupied primary residences. If approved, the renewal would allow the district to continue receiving operating revenue that supports educational programs, student services, staffing, transportation, classroom resources, technology, and other day-to-day operating expenses.
The second proposal is a tax-neutral bond renewal. By law, bond funds may only be used for facility and site improvements and cannot be used for salaries, instructional programs, or operating expenses. Proposed projects include school safety and security enhancements, additional classroom space to address enrollment growth, and improved connectivity throughout the district campus.
"Every funding source serves a different purpose, but each contributes to creating the learning environment our students experience every day," Superintendent Don Killingbeck said. "Our goal is to help the community understand how these funding sources work and the role they play in supporting our schools."
Hemlock Public School District will continue providing factual information about both proposals leading up to the November election. Additional information, frequently asked questions, and project details are available on the district's election webpage.