Hemlock Public School District today announced that Hilary House will step away from her seat on the Board of Education as she relocates to a residence outside district boundaries.
A Hemlock High School alumna and longtime community servant, Hilary helped govern the district through the COVID-19 pandemic and a period of significant facility enhancements. A proud parent, House has two daughters—Gabi, a 2024 HHS graduate currently attending Paul Mitchell The School Nashville (the correct name, not a typo) and expected to graduate in June 2026, and Holly, who is scheduled to graduate in 2027. She is on the varsity volleyball team and actively shows her Reining horse, Voodoo Boss, at the state and national level. She hopes to pursue an education in the south at a university with an equestrian team.
Hilary previously served with the Michigan State Police before transitioning to real estate and in the past has been active with the Great Lakes Bay Region C.A.N. Council as a law enforcement liaison.
In the future, Hilary said that she looks forward to moving south with both girls when her youngest graduates high school. And that she has always had a passion for interior design, staging homes and helping people and that's why I love real estate!. I just purchased my first home to flip. I would prefer to call it "rejuvenating a neglected home!" Unfortunately, it was out of the Hemlock school district. I hope to incorporate that love with my real estate. Being a part of the school board has been a great experience! Hemlock schools are outstanding! I will miss everyone!
“Serving on the school board is my way of giving back to the community and supporting our children,” Hilary said in a 2024 district profile, a theme reflected throughout her tenure.
Next steps to fill the vacancy
Under Michigan law, when a school board member moves residence outside the district or ceases to possess the legal qualifications for office, the position becomes vacant. The remaining board members then have 30 days to appoint a qualified elector of the district to serve until a successor is elected and qualified, consistent with state statute.
The Hemlock Board of Education will outline the application and appointment timeline and will share details on the district website and official channels. Qualified residents interested in serving are encouraged to watch for that announcement.
Statements of appreciation
“Hilary has been a steady, student-first voice during an extraordinarily complex time for public education,” said Superintendent Don Killingbeck. “From pandemic recovery to major facility work, she consistently centered students, staff, and families. We are grateful for her service and wish her the very best in this next chapter.”
Board President Matt Wesener shared, “Hilary has been a thoughtful and dedicated board member whose service came during one of the most challenging and transformative periods in our district’s history. She brought a calm, steady perspective, always keeping our students at the center of her decisions. While we will miss her voice at the table, we are grateful for her commitment and wish her the very best as she begins this new chapter.”
Other Board members echoed that appreciation, noting House’s commitment to transparency, teamwork, and community engagement.
About Hilary House
Hemlock High School alumna, mother of Gabi and Holly
Career service with the Michigan State Police; licensed realtor
Community involvement with the Great Lakes Bay Region C.A.N. Council (law enforcement liaison)
Advocated for meeting students’ evolving post-pandemic needs and for clear, consistent communication across the district