HEMLOCK, MI – There is very little that slows the Huskie Pack down! The Hemlock Public School District has been around since 1863 and seen its fair share of adversities and challenges. Last month Governor Whitmer issued all public and private K-12 schools to be shut down until April 6th, which was later extended until April 13th, and now until the end of the school year.
Not unlike our huskie mascot we are accustomed to working in difficult situations and persevering. We will continue to work albeit for the most part virtually to complete our mission in service to students and families.
Hemlock Public School District did not have a crystal ball five+ years ago when it launched its 1:1 technology initiative but it had a vision for learning anywhere, anytime, at any pace and that vision has allowed us to continue working with our students and families during these unprecedented times. The virtue of working virtually is simply that the work does not stop and we continue to provide teaching and learning experiences to our students.
Hemlock High School’s Keith Green relates, “All of our teachers have Google Classroom set up (Google Classroom is a free virtual classroom provided by the technology giant Google). The kids know how to access their online resources. So, while it’s not exactly business, as usual, the infrastructure is in place. Teaching and learning can continue in a familiar and effective environment. We have 1:1 devices for students from 1st through 12th grade so we were able to send devices home for all of our students who do not have computer access.”
Our current situation is temporary and will not last forever but will likely have an enduring effect on how we educate students. We work to ensure that effect is a positive one for all stakeholders.
Superintendent Killingbeck said “I am impressed with the work our students and teachers have done to keep learning alive and their personal grit in the face of this challenge. It’s their positive attitudes and commitment to learning that help me stay focused during these uncertain times.”
The district is continuing to try and find ways to make the best of our unfortunate situation and provide students with the greatest level of normalcy as possible. We appreciate everyone’s patience’s as we continue to work together through COVID-19 and beyond.
In addition to our foodservice department working onsite our building secretaries, principals, technology department, central office staff, and others continue to telecommute and are available via email or Google Hangout to meet your needs.
For more information about this or other positive happenings, contact Hemlock Public School District at (989) 642-5282 or visit us on the web at www.hemlockps.com.