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 several administrative and financial developments, including renewing its accreditation, paying off debts, and establishing an endowment. She also oversaw an increase in enrollment and the reopening of the high school. Most recently, she led the effort to join the Chesterton Schools Network, a process that implements a classical curriculum combining liberal arts with Christian virtues.

Beam worked to strengthen the Catholic identity of the school by moving her office to a central location and opening a chapel in her former office space. She used the chapel as a place for students to reflect during behavioral discussions.