Hemlock Public School District mourns the passing of Richard “Dick” Redifer, who served our community for 37 years in many roles—principal, teacher, athletic director, bus driver, coach, and driver’s training instructor. Mr. Redifer was known for his quick thinking, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to students and families. His impact is woven into the fabric of Hemlock, and he will be deeply missed.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Redifer’s family, friends, former students, and colleagues.
https://www.obitmichigan.com/Obituary/76552/Richard-Redifer
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Redifer’s family, friends, former students, and colleagues.
https://www.obitmichigan.com/Obituary/76552/Richard-Redifer
If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure where to turn, there’s help. Right now.
Our partnership with Gaggle ReachOut gives Hemlock students a 24/7 crisis line that’s just a call or chat away. It’s confidential, student-focused, and always available.
Call 989-200-5514 or chat using this link: https://d1ycp1unyf9l00.cloudfront.net/partner/15a5dc9d-8072-4808-a2e2-5f6a6a043696/site/widget/index.html
Because your mental health matters. Because you matter.
#MentalHealthMatters #YouAreNotAlone #ReachOut #HemlockHuskies
Our partnership with Gaggle ReachOut gives Hemlock students a 24/7 crisis line that’s just a call or chat away. It’s confidential, student-focused, and always available.
Call 989-200-5514 or chat using this link: https://d1ycp1unyf9l00.cloudfront.net/partner/15a5dc9d-8072-4808-a2e2-5f6a6a043696/site/widget/index.html
Because your mental health matters. Because you matter.
#MentalHealthMatters #YouAreNotAlone #ReachOut #HemlockHuskies
Kindergarten Hedgehog Art: officially the new standard for adorable. 🦔
#HemlockHuskies #WorksOfHeart #YouAreWelcome
#HemlockHuskies #WorksOfHeart #YouAreWelcome
Free Meals Continue at Hemlock 🥪 Although the State of Michigan has not yet finalized its budget, Hemlock Public Schools remains focused on what matters most, our students.
For now, we’ll continue providing free meals to all students while we wait for more clarity on long-term funding from the State.
Thank you for standing with us as we put kids first.
#HemlockHuskies #BetterTogether #Since1863
For now, we’ll continue providing free meals to all students while we wait for more clarity on long-term funding from the State.
Thank you for standing with us as we put kids first.
#HemlockHuskies #BetterTogether #Since1863
Families and Community,
Sometimes we get it right, and sometimes we don’t. At Hemlock Public School District, nothing is more important than student safety—and clear, timely communication is a critical part of keeping everyone safe and informed.
Yesterday (Monday, September 29, 2025), our safety protocols were tested. Out of an abundance of caution and with limited information, we placed all HPSD buildings in Secure Mode. That was the right call. When in doubt, we will always put the safety of students and staff first—even if it later proves to be an overreaction.
As we processed information, we moved quickly to inform parents. Because there was no active threat and no action required from families, we used email. Here’s where we fell short: our system did not send the update to everyone. We identified the issue before the end of the day and have corrected it. We are now increasing our testing schedule to ensure messages reach every intended recipient. This failure is unacceptable, and we’ve taken steps to prevent a repeat.
A note about social media: asking the community not to post speculation during a safety event is not about hiding information. It’s about preventing misinformation and avoiding making our schools a target (check with Chief Goldman if you would like). When we have verified information to share publicly, we will share it. In some situations, we may use our official social media channels; in others, we will communicate directly with parents/guardians first.
We also want you to know: we work closely with the Richland Township Police and Fire Department, located on our campus and surrounded by HPSD on three sides. Chief Goldman, School Resource Officer Randy, and both departments are active partners in planning, training, and response. Our district has many safety features in place; we don’t publicize all of them, because doing so can create risk. You are always welcome to contact Chief Goldman at 989.642.5707 if you have questions.
In today’s world, security drills are as routine as fire drills. We don’t want to alarm you during a simple drill; however, when an unscheduled incident occurs, we typically follow up with an email to explain what happened—provided the situation isn’t time-sensitive. If we ever face an urgent situation that requires you to act right now (avoid an area, change pickup, follow specific instructions), we will send a text message using our district system, Apptegy. Text allows us to reach you quickly and reliably.
What we need from you (right now):
Verify your contact information. Please make sure your email address and mobile number are accurate in Skyward Family Access.
Early Childhood Center (HECC) families: We are actively working to include ECC-only families who are not yet in Skyward so you receive districtwide texts and emails. Until that’s complete, please confirm your current contact information with the HECC office so we can reach you promptly.
We are actively updating and testing our internal communication systems. Our commitment is simple: when seconds matter, you’ll hear from us by text; when a situation allows, we’ll follow up with a clear email summary. Safety and security are serious business for us, and we will keep refining our systems to serve you and your children well.
If you have questions or need help updating contact information, please call our office at 989.642.5282 (ask for Lela Gronski), or contact your school building office and speak with the building secretary.
Thank you for your partnership and trust.
All the best,
Don Killingbeck Jr., Ed.D.
Superintendent
989.642.5282
Sometimes we get it right, and sometimes we don’t. At Hemlock Public School District, nothing is more important than student safety—and clear, timely communication is a critical part of keeping everyone safe and informed.
Yesterday (Monday, September 29, 2025), our safety protocols were tested. Out of an abundance of caution and with limited information, we placed all HPSD buildings in Secure Mode. That was the right call. When in doubt, we will always put the safety of students and staff first—even if it later proves to be an overreaction.
As we processed information, we moved quickly to inform parents. Because there was no active threat and no action required from families, we used email. Here’s where we fell short: our system did not send the update to everyone. We identified the issue before the end of the day and have corrected it. We are now increasing our testing schedule to ensure messages reach every intended recipient. This failure is unacceptable, and we’ve taken steps to prevent a repeat.
A note about social media: asking the community not to post speculation during a safety event is not about hiding information. It’s about preventing misinformation and avoiding making our schools a target (check with Chief Goldman if you would like). When we have verified information to share publicly, we will share it. In some situations, we may use our official social media channels; in others, we will communicate directly with parents/guardians first.
We also want you to know: we work closely with the Richland Township Police and Fire Department, located on our campus and surrounded by HPSD on three sides. Chief Goldman, School Resource Officer Randy, and both departments are active partners in planning, training, and response. Our district has many safety features in place; we don’t publicize all of them, because doing so can create risk. You are always welcome to contact Chief Goldman at 989.642.5707 if you have questions.
In today’s world, security drills are as routine as fire drills. We don’t want to alarm you during a simple drill; however, when an unscheduled incident occurs, we typically follow up with an email to explain what happened—provided the situation isn’t time-sensitive. If we ever face an urgent situation that requires you to act right now (avoid an area, change pickup, follow specific instructions), we will send a text message using our district system, Apptegy. Text allows us to reach you quickly and reliably.
What we need from you (right now):
Verify your contact information. Please make sure your email address and mobile number are accurate in Skyward Family Access.
Early Childhood Center (HECC) families: We are actively working to include ECC-only families who are not yet in Skyward so you receive districtwide texts and emails. Until that’s complete, please confirm your current contact information with the HECC office so we can reach you promptly.
We are actively updating and testing our internal communication systems. Our commitment is simple: when seconds matter, you’ll hear from us by text; when a situation allows, we’ll follow up with a clear email summary. Safety and security are serious business for us, and we will keep refining our systems to serve you and your children well.
If you have questions or need help updating contact information, please call our office at 989.642.5282 (ask for Lela Gronski), or contact your school building office and speak with the building secretary.
Thank you for your partnership and trust.
All the best,
Don Killingbeck Jr., Ed.D.
Superintendent
989.642.5282
📅 Hey Huskies, check out these important dates for the next few months of the school year to stay in the loop, and be sure to follow your specific school building on Facebook for the latest.
#HemlockHuskies #PullTheSled #Since1863
#HemlockHuskies #PullTheSled #Since1863
The internet can be a noisy place, and sometimes stories get a little mixed up. If you’ve got questions about our district—whether it’s the exciting projects we’re building or the everyday moments happening in our schools—the best way to get the facts is to call us directly. 📞
Hemlock Elementaries: 989.642.5221 | 989.642.5235 (Ling)
Principal Cory Snider | snider@hemlockps.com
Assistant Principal Amanda Sensabaugh | sensabaugh.amanda@hemlockps.com
Hemlock Middle School: 989.642.5253
Principal Lori Gensch | gensch@hemlockps.com
Hemlock High School: 989.642.5287
Principal Keith Green | green@hemlockps.com
Central Office: 989.642.5282
Superintendent Don Killingbeck | killingbeck@hemlockps.com
Have a question? We’re just a phone call away.
#HemlockHuskies #HemlockStrong #Since1863
Hemlock Elementaries: 989.642.5221 | 989.642.5235 (Ling)
Principal Cory Snider | snider@hemlockps.com
Assistant Principal Amanda Sensabaugh | sensabaugh.amanda@hemlockps.com
Hemlock Middle School: 989.642.5253
Principal Lori Gensch | gensch@hemlockps.com
Hemlock High School: 989.642.5287
Principal Keith Green | green@hemlockps.com
Central Office: 989.642.5282
Superintendent Don Killingbeck | killingbeck@hemlockps.com
Have a question? We’re just a phone call away.
#HemlockHuskies #HemlockStrong #Since1863
Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Celebration ✨ Join us for a special evening as we celebrate the Grand Opening of Wallace Field and Krueger Track on Friday, October 3rd, 2025—just before the big game.
📍 Ribbon Cutting: 6:00 PM
🏈 Kickoff: 7:00 PM
Come early, be part of history, and help us cheer on the Huskies under the Friday night lights. Don’t miss this milestone moment for our school and community.
#HemlockHuskies #Huskietastic #HemlockStrong #Since1863 #FridayNightLights
📍 Ribbon Cutting: 6:00 PM
🏈 Kickoff: 7:00 PM
Come early, be part of history, and help us cheer on the Huskies under the Friday night lights. Don’t miss this milestone moment for our school and community.
#HemlockHuskies #Huskietastic #HemlockStrong #Since1863 #FridayNightLights
🍂🍁 Fall in Hemlock: 5 stars
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Would recommend.
#HemlockHuskies #Huskietastic
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Would recommend.
#HemlockHuskies #Huskietastic
Showing up isn’t just about schoolwork. It’s about connection, leadership, and kindness. Let your child know, "You can be someone’s bright spot just by being there." A new week starts tomorrow, and we’re ready to welcome them.
#GoodAttendanceIsAGamechanger #HuskieAttendance #ShowUpAndLead
📌 A Day for Dax is today at Tommy's Express Car Wash on State Street in Saginaw. Don't miss this great opportunity to honor Dax's memory while supporting students. All day long a portion of every wash will go to a scholarship fund to support students from Hemlock High School who are going into the trades.
#DayForDax #WashForaCause #BetterTogether #HemlockStrong
#DayForDax #WashForaCause #BetterTogether #HemlockStrong
Want to know what’s for lunch, when your student’s game is, or how Harry is doing in math? 🍎🏀📚 There’s an app for that.
📲 Download the Hemlock PSD App from the Apple or Google Play Store today and take us with you wherever you are. With calendars, sports schedules, menus, Skyward, staff directories, and more—everything Huskie life is right at your fingertips.
#HemlockHuskies #Huskietastic #HemlockStrong
🌟Congratulations to Hemlock High School’s Student of the Month, senior Katie Fuller.
Katie is known for being a true friend to her peers and for consistently choosing the right path, even when it’s not the easiest. She shows respect to both her teachers and classmates, and her character shines through in every setting. Not only is she an exemplary student, but she is also a wonderful friend.
Please join us in celebrating Katie and all she contributes to our school community!
#HemlockHuskies #Huskietastic #HemlockStrong #Since1863
The internet can be a noisy place, and sometimes stories get a little mixed up. If you’ve got questions about our district—whether it’s the exciting projects we’re building or the everyday moments happening in our schools—the best way to get the facts is to call us directly. 📞
Hemlock Elementaries: 989.642.5221 | 989.642.5235 (Ling)
Principal Cory Snider | snider@hemlockps.com
Assistant Principal Amanda Sensabaugh | sensabaugh.amanda@hemlockps.com
Hemlock Middle School: 989.642.5253
Principal Lori Gensch | gensch@hemlockps.com
Hemlock High School: 989.642.5287
Principal Keith Green | green@hemlockps.com
Central Office: 989.642.5282
Superintendent Don Killingbeck | killingbeck@hemlockps.com
Have a question? We’re just a phone call away.
#HemlockHuskies #HemlockStrong #Since1863
Hemlock Elementaries: 989.642.5221 | 989.642.5235 (Ling)
Principal Cory Snider | snider@hemlockps.com
Assistant Principal Amanda Sensabaugh | sensabaugh.amanda@hemlockps.com
Hemlock Middle School: 989.642.5253
Principal Lori Gensch | gensch@hemlockps.com
Hemlock High School: 989.642.5287
Principal Keith Green | green@hemlockps.com
Central Office: 989.642.5282
Superintendent Don Killingbeck | killingbeck@hemlockps.com
Have a question? We’re just a phone call away.
#HemlockHuskies #HemlockStrong #Since1863
Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Celebration ✨ Join us for a special evening as we celebrate the Grand Opening of Wallace Field and Krueger Track on Friday, October 3rd, 2025—just before the big game.
📍 Ribbon Cutting: 6:00 PM
🏈 Kickoff: 7:00 PM
Come early, be part of history, and help us cheer on the Huskies under the Friday night lights. Don’t miss this milestone moment for our school and community.
#HemlockHuskies #Huskietastic #HemlockStrong #Since1863 #FridayNightLights
📍 Ribbon Cutting: 6:00 PM
🏈 Kickoff: 7:00 PM
Come early, be part of history, and help us cheer on the Huskies under the Friday night lights. Don’t miss this milestone moment for our school and community.
#HemlockHuskies #Huskietastic #HemlockStrong #Since1863 #FridayNightLights
🔌 Power Shutdown Alert ⚡
Heads up, everyone! We have a scheduled power shutdown coming this weekend to perform essential maintenance. To keep our critical systems online, we'll be running generators at the Middle School and other select locations.
We are aware that the generators create noise pollution, so we would like to thank our neighbors in advance for their understanding. We are working to limit the amount of time that generators are running. The work will commence at 7:30 AM on Saturday, and we anticipate it will be completed by the end of the day.
Your patience is a huge help as we work to keep our community running smoothly.
Heads up, everyone! We have a scheduled power shutdown coming this weekend to perform essential maintenance. To keep our critical systems online, we'll be running generators at the Middle School and other select locations.
We are aware that the generators create noise pollution, so we would like to thank our neighbors in advance for their understanding. We are working to limit the amount of time that generators are running. The work will commence at 7:30 AM on Saturday, and we anticipate it will be completed by the end of the day.
Your patience is a huge help as we work to keep our community running smoothly.
Smiles in 2nd Grade ✨📸 We’re loving having Miss Cate Baldwin as part of the Huskie Pack. Her 2nd-grade class took a quick pause today to ham it up for the camera—and they nailed it.
Way to shine, little Huskies.
#HemlockHuskies #Huskietastic #HemlockStrong #Since1863
Way to shine, little Huskies.
#HemlockHuskies #Huskietastic #HemlockStrong #Since1863
👑 ICYMI | During halftime this past Friday, our Homecoming court and class representatives took the field—looking absolutely dazzling—for the crowning of our King and Queen.✨
Congratulations once again to this year’s court:
Freshman Class Reps: Camden Peters & Kassidy Cavendish
Sophomore Class Reps: Graham Scoles & Aubrey Perry
Junior Class Reps: Jericho Orange & Carley Noyes
Senior Court: Daniel Lyscas + Brooke Gustin | Brennan Meyer + Allie Watson | Nicholas Chasnis + Lyndsey Lyscas | and King Wyatt Scoles & Queen Victoria Hauffe
What a night to remember—way to shine, Huskies.
#HemlockHuskies #Homecoming2025 #Huskietastic #HemlockStrong #Since1863
Congratulations once again to this year’s court:
Freshman Class Reps: Camden Peters & Kassidy Cavendish
Sophomore Class Reps: Graham Scoles & Aubrey Perry
Junior Class Reps: Jericho Orange & Carley Noyes
Senior Court: Daniel Lyscas + Brooke Gustin | Brennan Meyer + Allie Watson | Nicholas Chasnis + Lyndsey Lyscas | and King Wyatt Scoles & Queen Victoria Hauffe
What a night to remember—way to shine, Huskies.
#HemlockHuskies #Homecoming2025 #Huskietastic #HemlockStrong #Since1863
Behind every new classroom, lab, and gym is a community that believes in its students. Thank you for trusting us to steward your support well—we are building not just for today, but for generations of Huskies to come.
#HemlockStrong #HemlockHuskies #Since1863
#HemlockStrong #HemlockHuskies #Since1863
Own the moment. From first bell to final whistle, show up strong and show out in Huskie gear.
Find your fit in the Huskie Swag Catalog: https://www.hemlockps.com/page/brand
#HPSD #RepThePack #HuskieStyle #SwagSled
Find your fit in the Huskie Swag Catalog: https://www.hemlockps.com/page/brand
#HPSD #RepThePack #HuskieStyle #SwagSled
