Graduation is more than a ceremony—it’s a milestone that deserves to be honored, celebrated, and remembered. At Hemlock Public Schools, the commencement service is a meaningful tradition that marks the culmination of 13 years of hard work, learning, and growth. It is the capstone of a student’s K-12 journey, and a time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the community that has helped shape them into who they are today.
Each year, Hemlock’s commencement service brings together students, families, teachers, and the broader community in a celebration of accomplishment and promise. It’s not just about receiving a diploma; it’s about recognizing the countless moments that led to that achievement—early morning bus rides, spirited homecoming games, late-night study sessions, school plays, science fairs, and hallway conversations that built lifelong friendships. These experiences have shaped students into learners, leaders, and responsible citizens, ready to step into the next chapter of life.
This year’s ceremony holds even deeper meaning as Hemlock Public Schools not only celebrates its graduating class, but also honors two remarkable educators who are “graduating” themselves. Mrs. Leanne Gerard, after 27.5 years of dedication to Hemlock High School, and Mrs. Dana Lockwood, whose service spans over 30 years, are retiring and moving on from their teaching careers. These two educators have left a lasting legacy—not just through the curriculum they taught, but through the relationships they built, the students they mentored, and the lives they’ve touched. Their retirement is a graduation of a different kind, a well-earned honor at the end of careers defined by passion, patience, and perseverance.
Commencement is more than a personal achievement—it’s a celebration of community and family. At Hemlock, we take pride in walking this journey together. Whether you’re a graduate, a teacher, a parent, or a friend, this ceremony represents all of us. It reminds us of the power of education, the value of community, and the importance of pausing to honor both the past and the possibilities ahead.
As we gather this year to commemorate the Class of 2025 and to recognize the distinguished service of Mrs. Gerard and Mrs. Lockwood, we do more than mark an ending—we celebrate a beginning. A beginning of new adventures, new challenges, and new opportunities, grounded in the memories, lessons, and support of a small-town school with a big heart.
Congratulations to our graduates—both students and teachers. You will always be part of the Hemlock family.