The Hemlock Huskie blue may be turning a shade green. The Hemlock Public School District recently received a grant from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to the tune of $60,000. The grant requires the district to offline three older buses and replace them with newer, more environmentally friendly units.
The process to secure the funds were championed by Transportation Director Carolyn Donoghue, and supported with efforts by central office staff Lela Gronski, and Anna Wamack.
Transportation Director Donoghue shared, “We were fortunate out of 40 states that applied, and the 138 awards that were given, Hemlock was chosen to receive this award!”
Board of Education President Matt Wesener said, “We have an aging bus fleet and buses are a large expense, so it’s fantastic to see us take advantage of opportunities like this to significantly reduce cost.”
The EPA award just under a quarter-million dollars for our region, and Hemlock Public School District secured the 2nd largest amount of the 5 schools awarded for our region.
Superintendent Don Killingbeck said, "It is great to know our students will be riding in newer buses next year, and that we continue to do our part to reduce our environmental footprint." Killingbeck also went on to say, "We are blessed to have Carolyn Donoghue leading the charge in transportation, her focus on students is much appreciated along with her excellent problem-solving skills."
Hemlock Public School District was awarded Michigan Green School status in 2018 and promotes reusing, reducing, and recycling. This award by the EPA is just another step forward. For more information regarding EPA Awards, click here.