Thank you to Our School Board: District 3 Board member Chance Beam!

In this season of gratitude, we’re sharing how thankful we are for our dedicated Cherokee County School Board members!  Our School Board members’ laser focus on student learning has been strengthened to new levels over the past year.  Their work created a depth of alignment from the board room to the classroom now driving our mission to be the highest performing school district in the state.  A high performing school district starts with a high performing school board!  We asked our board members a series of questions to share more with the community about themselves, their role, and their service, and we’ll be sharing these profiles with you this month. 

Please join us in thanking District 3 Board member Chance Beam!

Mr. Beam, a Woodstock resident and local business owner, was appointed to the School Board in February to represent District 3.  As a dedicated entrepreneur, he has successfully operated multiple businesses, contributing to the growth and development of youth sports and athletics in the community.  His coaching efforts have helped over 1,200 players advance to college or professional baseball and softball.  Mr. Beam and his wife, Christine, have one daughter who attends River Ridge HS and one who is a 2025 graduate now attending Lipscomb University.

Why did you choose to serve on the School Board?
I stepped up to serve because I believe every student in Cherokee County deserves safe schools, excellent teaching, and clear pathways to college, careers, and the military.  I’m a parent and a small-business owner, so I see both sides: the classroom realities and the community’s expectations.  I wanted to bring a steady, accountable voice to fiscal stewardship, transparent decision-making, and policies that empower teachers while keeping families informed.  My north star is simple: plant seeds today that our kids — and their kids — will benefit from tomorrow.

What part of your role on the School Board do you enjoy most?
I enjoy solving hard problems with smart, mission-driven people.  The best days are when I’m in schools listening to teachers and principals, celebrating student achievements in academics, arts, and athletics, and then translating what I’ve heard into practical policy — things like safety improvements, clear curriculum supports, fair and competitive procurement, and stronger career-tech pathways.  I also value open communication with parents; when we explain the “why,” trust grows.

What is the most challenging part of serving on the School Board?
The hardest part is balancing worthy priorities within finite resources — especially when trade-offs affect different schools in different ways.  Complex topics — budgets, policies, compliance — don’t always fit into a sound bite.  Slowing down to share data and context, even when the issue is urgent, is essential and not always easy.

What other ways do you enjoy volunteering in the community?
I stay engaged through youth sports — mentoring and supporting student-athletes, hosting clinics, and helping families navigate development and recruiting.  Whenever possible, I pitch in at school events and community forums — any setting where listening first can lead to better outcomes for kids.

What are some of the reasons you love living in our community?
Cherokee County blends small-town relationships with big-time opportunities.  We have strong schools, vibrant youth sports and arts, active faith and civic organizations, and a growing economy that still feels neighborly.  People show up for one another here — at games, performances, fundraisers, and graduations.  It’s a place where families can put down roots, where teachers and coaches are community heroes, and where working together still means something.  That’s why I’m proud to serve.

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