Elaine Beam retires as principal of St. Michael School

Elaine Beam has retired after 17 years as the principal of St. Michael School in Brattleboro, Vermont. During her tenure, the school achieved several milestones, including renewing its accreditation, eliminating debt, and establishing a robust endowment. Under her leadership, student enrollment increased and the high school was reopened.

Beam also led the initiative to integrate St. Michael High School into the Chesterton Schools Network, which implements a classical curriculum combining liberal arts with Christian virtues. Her approach to education emphasized fostering a child’s natural curiosity and integrating spiritual leadership into the school environment, such as making a chapel space available for students.

Reflecting on the mission of Catholic education, the importance of teachers acting as witnesses through joy, enthusiasm, and passion is highlighted as a means to inspire lifelong learning and intellectual growth in students.