Hemlock Public School District highlights the connection between education, community vitality, and the November 3 election
A strong school district does more than educate students. It helps prepare the local workforce, brings families together, strengthens community pride, supports local businesses, and contributes to the long-term vitality of the entire community.
As Hemlock Public School District continues providing information about the two proposals on the November 3 ballot, district leaders are highlighting the important relationship between strong schools and a strong community.
Students may spend only part of their lives in district classrooms, but the impact of their education extends far beyond graduation. Public schools help prepare young people for college, skilled trades, military service, careers, and lives of service and leadership. They also help develop the future employees, entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, educators, first responders, and community leaders who will shape the region for years to come.
“Schools and communities are deeply connected,” Superintendent Don Killingbeck said. “When our students succeed, our community succeeds. The work taking place in our classrooms today helps shape the workforce, families, and leaders of tomorrow. That is why it is important for residents to understand what is on the ballot and how each proposal fits into the future of our district and community.”
The connection to Hemlock Public School District looks different for everyone. Some residents have children or grandchildren currently enrolled. Others are graduates, parents of former students, district employees, business owners, employers, volunteers, taxpayers, or longtime community members. Many attend athletic contests, concerts, theatrical productions, community events, or activities held in district facilities.
Regardless of how people connect with the schools, they share a common interest in the future of the community.
Hemlock Public School District has worked to create opportunities that serve students while also strengthening the community. District facilities host educational programs, athletic competitions, performances, meetings, youth activities, and regional events. Partnerships with local businesses, colleges, community organizations, and industry leaders help students connect classroom learning with real-world experiences and future careers.
“Our district has always believed in the power of working together,” Killingbeck said. “The partnerships between our schools, families, businesses, and community organizations allow us to create opportunities that would not be possible alone. That spirit of collaboration is one of Hemlock’s greatest strengths.”
On November 3, voters residing within the Hemlock Public School District will consider two separate proposals with two distinct purposes.
The first is a renewal of the district’s non-homestead operating millage. Under Michigan’s school funding system, this millage is required for the district to receive its full per-pupil funding. It applies to commercial, industrial, rental, and other non-homestead properties. It does not apply to owner-occupied primary residences.
If approved, the renewal would allow the district to continue receiving nearly $3 million annually for classroom instruction, staffing, student services, transportation, technology, building operations, and other everyday educational expenses.
The second is a tax-neutral bond proposal that would maintain the district’s current school tax rate while supporting long-term facility and infrastructure improvements. Proposed projects would focus on school safety and security, additional classroom space to address enrollment growth, and improved connectivity throughout the district campus.
Bond funds are legally restricted and may only be used for approved capital projects. They cannot be used for employee salaries, benefits, utilities, or other day-to-day operating expenses.
“One election includes two separate proposals, and each serves a different purpose,” Killingbeck said. “Our role is to provide residents with clear, accurate, and accessible information so they can understand the proposals, ask questions, and make an informed decision.”
Hemlock Public School District will continue sharing factual information in the weeks leading up to the November 3 election. Community members are encouraged to review the available materials, contact the district with questions, and participate in the election process.
Additional information, frequently asked questions, financial details, and proposed project information are available on the district’s election webpage.