Update

Monthly Update, July 1, 2021 

Dear Huskie Pack: 

As we all hope to lean into a more normal school year this next fall, my weekly updates will transition into monthly updates unless otherwise needed. 

Regardless of where I am at, I consistently get questions from our parents, community members, and even from people around the State of Michigan and beyond about next year. So in this monthly update, I hope to cover some things that will help everyone plan as we move forward together. 

Please understand that our protocols and expectations still remain fluid as we all have learned to adapt and adjust as requirements and expectations change from governing bodies outside of our control. We will work to follow the regulations and rules that are in place for public school districts at the time of operation. 

What will school look like next year? 
Right now, we are planning for students to attend full-time five days per week following our 2020-2021 school year calendar. The first student day is Monday, August 23rd. 

Are open houses really virtual? 
We are planning on face-to-face open houses at each building but also will work to provide more flexibility and scheduling than perhaps we did in years past. Our building principals will send out invites and more information in early August, along with the schedule of events. 

What is going on with the dining service for next year? 
We are planning to resume normal dining services for next year, but as of right now, it appears that all regular breakfast and lunch meals will be provided free of charge. We will be piloting a special program for 10-15% of our student body with an in-classroom cafe for breakfast. 

What instructional options will be provided for students next fall? 
We are planning for all students to attend face-to-face instruction next fall. We do, however, have our Hemlock Virtual program available for students in grades 7-12 that would prefer a self-paced option that provides more flexibility with face-to-face attendance. 

What will be the COVID-19 protocols for next year?*
Currently, as of June 22nd, MDHHS has discontinued many of the protocols. 

  • We will not require student vaccination; this is a personal choice. Click here for additional information. 
  • As of right now, face masks will be options and provided by parents/guardians. 
  • If we have cases of Covid-19 on our campus, we will communicate with parents and the health department as required; click here for additional information. At this time, we are not expecting quarantine students for close contact. 
  • Athletics, MDHSS, and MHSAA have currently removed the requirements for student testing. 
  • We will review all of our cleaning protocols and continue to work to keep our facilities as clean and sanitized as possible. 

The whole team at Hemlock Public School District looks forward to welcoming your child(ren) back to school in August. I will send another update at the start of next month. Until then, wishing you and your family a wonderful 4th of July holiday. 

Educationally Yours, 

Dr. Don Killingbeck, Supt. 

Important Dates Ahead
Open House, August 17/18th 
First Day of School, August 23rd 
Home Football Game, August 26th 

Tune In 
OTS 3.9, Tom Lockwood and Alex Haltom
Hemlock Virtual
5 STAR  Program, Early Childhood Center