Raised on a rural farm in Westby, Mrs. Hemker graduated from W.A.H.S. in 1993. She earned her degree in Art Education from Viterbo University in 1997, followed by a Master’s in Education–Professional Development from UW-La Crosse in 2000.

With over 29 years of teaching experience in West Salem, she is proud to be a Panther. Mrs. Hemker thrives in the art studio setting with her students, frequently accompanying them to local and state-level exhibitions and award ceremonies. Outside the classroom, she is a practicing artist who exhibits and sells her work across the state and region.

She also serves on the board of the Wisconsin Art Education Association as the Vice President for the West Central Region (covering CESA 4 and 10). At home, Mrs. Hemker is a mom, a devoted dog owner, and an avid flower and vegetable gardener.