Elaine Beam retires as principal of St. Michael School

Elaine Beam retired as principal of St. Michael School in Brattleboro this past July after 17 years in the role.

During her tenure, Beam led the school through a period of growth that included renewing its accreditation, paying off debts, and building an endowment. She also oversaw the reopening of the high school and led the effort to join the Chesterton Schools Network, which implements a classical curriculum combining liberal arts with Christian virtues.

To strengthen the school's Catholic identity, Beam moved her office to a central location and converted her former office space into a chapel. She used the chapel as a space for students to reflect during behavioral discussions.