Beacon Elementary has a new principal.
Brooke Stidham was selected as the next leader of Beacon Elementary out of a candidate pool of over 40 qualified applicants. Stidham brings with her an outstanding educational leadership background and a passion for kids. She was serving as the assistant principal (Lead Administrator for Young 5’s – 4th grade) at A2 STEAM in Ann Arbor.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Dexter Community Schools,” Stidham stated. “I’m excited to meet the staff and students, as I’ve only heard wonderful things. I was drawn to Dexter for the innovative programming and the focus on supporting the whole child through social-emotional well being. Having grown up in a small town, and with my husband being a Dexter alumnus, joining the Beacon team feels like coming home.”
Prior to this role, Stidham was the Project-Based Learning Coordinator and an elementary teacher at A2 STEAM. As a former early elementary teacher and experienced administrator, she brings a wealth of experience and skills to lead Beacon Elementary in the DCS Vision of Champion Learning: Develop, Educate, and Inspire!
Stidham is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University. Her references refer to her as “…a trusted leader among her peers and a credible source for best practices in literacy.”
Another reference stated that “She is a visionary and results oriented person. She has a natural ability to build relationships with colleagues, students, families, and community members.”
Throughout a multi-round interview process that included staff, parents, and administrators, Stidham was selected as the top candidate because of her experience leading and teaching at the early childhood level, her expertise in project-based learning, knowledge of early literacy skills, and history of community building with students, families, and staff.
“When we started the search process, we were committed to adding an outstanding principal who would be able to hit the ground running and continue the positive work we’re doing for ALL DCS students…Brooke Stidham is that leader,” said DCS Superintendent Dr. Christopher Timmis. “Her expertise in project-based learning, early literacy, and fostering creativity and authentic learning experiences for kids will be a benefit to Dexter students….we’re fortunate to have Mrs. Stidham joining Dexter Community Schools as the leader of Beacon Elementary School.”
Ryan Bruder, Executive Director of Instruction, stated, “Mrs. Stidham brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Beacon and the Dexter Community Schools. Her emphasis on relationships, passion for teaching and learning and thoughtful leadership style will be a perfect fit for the Beacon Community.”
Stidham officially began at Dexter Community Schools on Aug. 4 and is preparing to meet the students, staff, and families in preparation for the 2021-2022 school year.
