Dr. Kristy Beam, an experienced educator, school leader, and resident of Atlanta, has always aspired to design and found a charter school in her home state of Georgia. As a Build Track Fellow with BES, she will do just that. “I know, as educators, that we can do better for our students. I believe I can create a vision and lead the community to create a school of excellence in a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment. I believe strength is in diversity. Seeking multiple perspectives and building shared understandings will allow us to create a more peaceful world.”
In 1999, she began her lifelong career in education as a teacher for Gwinnett County Public Schools. She spent over a decade in the classroom before transitioning to an assistant principal role in the district where she was responsible for several key initiatives, such as managing the school’s Title I plan and accompanying budget to support high-needs students.
After three years as a Georgia-based school leader, Kristy moved overseas to serve as principal for the American School of Valencia from 2013 to 2017. During that time, she also facilitated several graduate and certification courses as an adjunct professor for the University of North Georgia. Kristy developed and oversaw the implementation of a collaborative exchange between the university and the American School for pre-service teachers to complete their practicum requirements abroad.
Most recently, Kristy was the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning for the City Schools of Decatur. She was elevated to this position in 2020 following a successful two-year tenure as an elementary school principal within the district. Her efforts as both a school-based and district leader ultimately contributed to the City Schools of Decatur receiving the highest ranking in the State of Georgia for reading test scores at several grade levels.
Kristy is the author of several research publications and holds numerous certifications. In addition, she completed the AASA Aspiring Superintendents Academy for Female Leaders and the Harvard Institute for Superintendents and District Leaders. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Education from Brenau University, along with a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology/Gifted and Creative Education from the University of Georgia and a Doctorate in Teacher Leadership from Walden University.
