Hemlock Public School District has been recognized with a 2025 Golden Achievement Award from the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) for its outstanding communication campaign supporting the renewal of the district’s Non-Homestead Operating Millage. This national honor highlights the district’s strategic, student-centered approach to community engagement and public education.
The Golden Achievement Award celebrates exemplary work in all aspects of school public relations, communication, marketing, and engagement. Entries are judged by experienced professionals and association members, emphasizing strategic planning, implementation, and measurable results.
Hemlock’s campaign, led by District Communications Specialist Joy McMillan, was developed in response to the initial failure of the millage renewal vote in February 2024. The team conducted deep research to identify community misconceptions and engagement gaps. They then implemented a revised strategy that included personalized outreach, student-centric imagery, and clear financial messaging. By clearly identifying the issues and adapting to a student-focused campaign, these efforts came together in the successful passage of the millage renewal on August 6, 2024.
The Non-Homestead Operating Millage is a critical source of funding for Hemlock Public School District, generating approximately $1.8 million annually. It applies only to businesses and second homes, not primary residences. These funds support essential day-to-day operations, staffing, and student programs, and cannot be replaced by any other funding stream. The success of this renewal vote ensured continued investment in educational quality, athletics, and extracurricular offerings across the district. Without this revenue, key programs and services would have faced significant cuts. The campaign’s success secured this vital funding, reinforced public understanding of how school finances work, and how the community’s vote directly impacts students.
“This recognition reflects the dedication and adaptability of our entire team,” said Superintendent Don Killingbeck. “Clarity is the key. By focusing on transparent communication and community involvement, we were able to convey the importance of the millage renewal for our students' education.”
Board President Matt Wesener added, “Our commitment to excellence in communication ensures that our everyone is well-informed and engaged. We want all community members to understand the truth that their say has the power to make a significant difference to the district. This award underscores the effectiveness of our approach and the strength of our community partnerships.”
Joy McMillan, who spearheaded the campaign, shared, “Winning our first Golden Achievement Award reflects the collaboration, strategy, and heart that went into supporting our community during the non-homestead millage renewal campaign. I'm honored by the recognition and grateful for the opportunity to share what worked—and what didn’t—with fellow school communicators, in hopes that others find success and avoid common pitfalls as they support their own districts.”
The award will be formally presented at the NSPRA 2025 National Seminar in Washington, D.C., this July. Hemlock Public School District remains committed to fostering open, effective communication to support its mission of providing high-quality education to all students.
