On a cold Wednesday morning, the Hemlock Public School District Board of Education gathered for a special meeting to consider a resolution drafted for school districts by the Michigan Association of School Boards in favor of letting students resume athletic competition.
After some discussion, Vice President Katherine Ellison made a motion which was supported by Trustee David Messing and passed unanimously in a roll call vote 7-0.
The resolution reads as follows:
WHEREAS, the Hemlock Public Schools Board of Education recognizes the important role that interscholastic athletic activities have in providing a comprehensive and quality learning environment, and
WHEREAS, the Board believes that keeping the school open for face-to-face learning includes extra-curricular activities, and
WHEREAS, the Board believes that during this COVID-19 pandemic, school is the safest place for students to learn, practice, and compete, and
WHEREAS, the Board believes under supervision of trained coaches and appropriate measures, HPS student-athletes can safely compete, and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Hemlock Public School District Board of Education hereby supports starting MHSAA winter athletic competition immediately.
Board President Matt Wesener said, “We are so proud of the kids that we have in Hemlock. They are amazing and resilient. Unfortunately, they are dealing with some very difficult circumstances that have impacted their overall growth as students. We believe that extra-curricular activities play a huge role in their overall development. I am incredibly proud that our board and leadership unanimously supports this resolution to Let Them Play!”