Hemlock Public School District is excited to announce the launch of a brand-new Elementary Art Program and enhancements to its Elementary Music Program, ensuring that students in Kindergarten through Fifth Grade receive 60 minutes of dedicated music and art instruction each week. This initiative is made possible through a Michigan Department of Education (MDE) grant**, which provides funding to expand fine arts opportunities and invest in the district’s long-term commitment to well-rounded student education.
This is a tremendous step forward for our district," said Board of Education President Matt Wesener. "The arts are a crucial part of a child’s development, and we are proud to make this investment in our students' creativity, self-expression, and overall learning experience."
The Value of Fine Arts in Elementary Education: Research consistently shows that high-quality fine arts programs provide numerous benefits to young learners, including:
Enhanced Creativity & Expression – Encouraging students to think outside the box and develop unique perspectives.
Stronger Academic Performance – Studies indicate that participation in music and art education improves reading, math, and problem-solving skills.
Improved Social & Emotional Skills – Arts education fosters **confidence, collaboration, and perseverance, skills essential for lifelong success.
Increased Engagement & Enjoyment – Schools with robust fine arts programs often see higher student engagement and stronger connections to learning.
With this expansion, Hemlock Public School District is ensuring that every child has access to high-quality arts education that enriches their academic journey.
Strategic Planning & Implementation: District leaders and building administrators have worked diligently to reshape schedules, identify classroom spaces, and prepare for a seamless program rollout for the remainder of the school year. The funding will not only support the initial launch but also help sustain and enhance these programs in the years to come.
"This initiative aligns with our vision of providing the best possible educational experiences for our students," said Superintendent Don Killingbeck. "We believe that music and art are essential components of a well-rounded education, and this grant allows us to expand these programs in a meaningful and sustainable way." and went on to praise the building principals for their flexibility and willingness to lean in and the Director of Business Operations and HR for her work with the grant funding
Investing in the Future: The financial backing from MDE allows the district to hire additional staff, purchase classroom supplies, and create dedicated learning spaces for music and art instruction.
"From a financial standpoint, this grant provides a foundation for the program’s success," said Director of Business Operations Denise Dowdell. "It ensures that we can continue to grow and strengthen our fine arts offerings while maintaining fiscal responsibility."
Perhaps the most enthusiastic response has come from the students themselves. An elementary student shared their excitement: "I love music, and now I get to have more of it every week! Plus, I’ve always wanted to learn how to paint and draw better. This is awesome!"
Looking Ahead: As Hemlock Public School District continues to prioritize student growth, engagement, and opportunity, the expansion of elementary fine arts education marks a significant milestone in shaping well-rounded learners prepared for the future.
"The arts inspire innovation, build critical thinking skills, and bring joy to learning," added Killingbeck. "This investment will have a lasting impact on our students and our community."