Most people around Hemlock know her simply as "Katie." Dr. Katherine Ellison is a passionate life-long learner and a fervent advocate for public education. In her role as Vice President of the Hemlock Public School District Board of Education, she brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to making her community a better place to live.
Katie’s roots in Hemlock run deep. She and her husband, Philip, were middle school sweethearts, and both are proud alums of Hemlock High School. Today, they continue to call Hemlock home, where Philip owns Outside Legal Counsel, a local law firm. Together, they have one son, Patton, who will attend K.C. Ling Elementary this fall, and a spirited border terrier named Hudson—who, while a terrier by birth, is a Huskie by choice.
In addition to her responsibilities on the school board, Katie is actively involved in various community activities. She enjoys walking Hudson around town and volunteering with the Sawdust Days festival committee and the Hemlock Area Historical Society. Beyond Hemlock, she also works at the Castle Museum of Saginaw County History, and she serves on the board of the Saginaw Community Foundation and as Vice President of the Saginaw Intermediate School District Board of Education.
Katie's academic journey began at Hemlock High School, where she graduated in 2000. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education (2003) and a Master of Arts degree in History (2006) from Central Michigan University. In 2013, she completed her Doctorate in American History from Western Michigan University. Her background as a college professor and administrator gives her a unique perspective on the educational landscape, which she uses to help better prepare students for their futures.
Katie believes that the school system is the heart and soul of the community, especially in a small town like Hemlock. She is acutely aware of the financial challenges facing the district, particularly in a state where schools have been traditionally underfunded. Despite these challenges, Hemlock has thrived by focusing on its students and making the most of available resources. The district’s commitment to innovation and collaboration is evident in its successful pursuit of grants, which have funded a 1:1 technology program and the state-of-the-art Lockwood STEM Center. The community’s support through a sinking fund and bond renewal has also been crucial in maintaining and improving school facilities.
Katie is incredibly proud to be a Huskie and is inspired by the dedication of the people in Hemlock. She knows that this community truly cares—about the students, about each other, and about the future. Despite the challenges of being a small district, Hemlock has always pulled the sled to put kids first, embracing a spirit of innovation, collaboration, and education.
And an interesting fact about Katie? She was in the last group of freshmen at Hemlock High School to learn to type on a typewriter—a testament to how much things have changed and how far we’ve come as a community.
Q: What do you enjoy about being on the Board of Education most?
A: "What I enjoy most about being on the Board of Education is seeing the big changes, both inside and out, that are shaping our schools and community. There's a deep sense of fulfillment in serving the community, knowing that the decisions we make today will have a lasting impact on the future of our students and families. Being part of this journey, watching our schools grow and evolve, is truly inspiring."
Q: What do you enjoy least about being on the Board of Education?
A: "The most challenging part of being on the Board of Education is dealing with people who don't take the time to fully understand the complexities of school operations and budgets. It can be frustrating when false assumptions are made by those who aren’t truly informed. Educating and engaging with the community is crucial, but it can be difficult when there’s resistance to seeing the bigger picture."
Q: What is something we are doing well right now?
A: "Right now, we're excelling in looking at the big picture and preparing for the future. We're not just maintaining the status quo; we're pushing the envelope, exploring new ideas, and making decisions that will benefit our students and community for years to come. Our focus on innovation and service to the community is something we can all be proud of."
Q: If you have 'one wish' for the district, what would it be?
A: "If I had one wish for the district, it would be to enhance our connectivity with the community, both metaphorically and physically. I envision a sidewalk that wraps around our entire school campus, seamlessly linking it with the surrounding community. This would not only provide a safe and accessible path for students and families but also symbolize the strong, integrated relationship we strive to build with our community."
Q: If you have 'one wish' for the board, what would it be?
A: "My wish for the board is to maintain the stability and continuity we currently enjoy. We're in a good place right now, and it's important that we keep the momentum going. By continuing to work together and staying focused on our goals, we can ensure that our district continues to thrive and grow."
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