Music that Describes Demetrius
Demetrius Beam was nominated by Angela Hess Welsh, a parent of a student.
Mr. Beam is a force for good in his community and is regarded as "Coach Beam" by those who know him. Ask anyone in the community if they know Coach Beam, and their response almost always starts with a smile. The smile is often followed by a story about how he goes the extra mile to make students feel special, or how he has been a source of inspiration in their lives. Coach Beam is a fantastic teacher who can get students excited about current issues. He makes topics accessible and understandable.
"Two of our sons have taken classes from Coach Beam, and while they were taking his classes, the discussions we had at the dinner table in the evening were often an extension of the discussions our sons had in Coach Beam's classes," said Hess Welsh. "He has a brilliant way of bringing history and government to life for students and engaging them in thoughtful discussions."
Even though Coach Beam is an exceptional teacher, that isn't the only reason he is such a force for good. His attention to students and their families goes beyond the academic arena. Coach Beam genuinely cares about students and inspires them on a personal level, going out of his way to encourage them in school and life.
"I have discussed Coach Beam's impact with many parents, and he encourages many students in their personal endeavors and long-term goals," said Hess Welsh.
During the pandemic, when schools were closed and everything was online, many students' mental health suffered because of the lack of interaction and camaraderie. Coach Beam stepped in and started a running club for those who needed an outlet. He helped students get outside and run together while adhering to distancing standards. He organized the club and ran with the students all on his own time with no expectations of reward because he saw a need, so he went above and beyond to help people cope.
"I believe Coach Beam's efforts literally saved my son's life," said Hess Welsh.
All teachers have a difficult job, but Coach Beam is always upbeat and helpful despite the challenges of teaching today. He instills curiosity in his students' minds and works to positively impact all students' lives at school and in the community. Because of his extraordinary qualities, Mr. Beam inspires students and is a life-changing educator.
I’ve had the pleasure of Mr. Beam not only teaching my son in class, but also contribute in his athletic pursuits as well. Over the years I have had the opportunity to speak with him and get to know him a bit better. I have yet to encounter any teacher or coach that is more passionate, caring, and supportive than Mr. Beam. He is a great example of what we hope educators to exemplify. Thank you for encouraging that same passion in learning and making the children excited about such a diverse subject matter. Thank you for all that you’ve contributed to my child as well as so many others. A+
Coach Beam is the best coach ever had, and he was a great teacher. His government class was really interesting and he made me want to know what’s really going on in our country. The most important thing he taught me was that if you don’t know the rules, you don’t know how to play the game and that is why it is so important to know the rules in our country and get involved to make things better.
But he isn’t just a great teacher. He cares about how you’re doing in life. I’ve been out of high school for two years and I recently had really major surgery. Coach Beam texted me and asked me how I was doing. That’s the type of guy he is, he really cares.
Coach Beam is an amazing coach, teacher, and human being. I have a vivid memory of him from when we had or Woodbridge race. I had been feeling extremely nervous and doubtful of my own ability and he noticed. We talked for a bit and I said “you know my goal in the end is to get a medal eventually for running eventually” he then hugged me after. That moment stuck with me since then and it’s something I look back in for motivation for anything I do. He always pushes us because he knows what we are capable of! So him being nominated is very fitting because he’s an amazing person!
I can’t think of anybody who deserves this award more than coach Beam. He was an outstandingly positive figure in my life at a time when I was severely lacking in confidence and needed a mentor. I can say with certainty that the two years I had the privilege to be coached under him contributed significantly in a constructive way to my life. As someone who has never been particularly gifted in the department of athletics, he never made me feel like I was any less valued than the other team members. He always made me feel like I had a spot on the team regardless of my ability. He was always encouraging, cheerful, and his motivating presence alone really gave me a push through those tough uphill struggles, on and off the race course. I really learned what it meant to be a team player under his guidance! Thanks coach Beam for always keeping it real!
Coach Beam is by far the best teacher I had during my time at Green Valley High School. He went the extra mile to engage with my government class and truly get to know his students, along with being very passionate about everything he taught. Because of this, I was always looking forward to learning in Coach Beam's class. Beyond the class, Coach Beam was also my cross-country coach during my sophomore year. Along with teaching us how to be better runners and how to push our physical limits; he focused on creating a sense of community within the team and encouraging us to better ourselves in aspects greater than running. It was under his mentorship that I met my closest friends and gained values far beyond the scope of running.
I graduated this past spring from Green Valley, and Coach Beam has made the biggest impact of any teacher/coach I've ever had in my life. He always took the time to know each athlete and student and supported each and every one of them. He was so genuine and is one of the few teachers that I've met that truly cares about each student's success. He goes out of his way to help us understand class material and why it was important. Coach Beam knew that high school was only a portion of each of our lives and wanted us to understand that we can do great things in the future. I will always remember what he did for me as a runner and a student. I would not be the same person heading into college right now if it were not for Coach Beam.
Coach Beam played a huge role in my life, more than any educator or coach I have ever had, his work ethic and drive for what he loved always inspired me. Without him, I would’ve never became the talented runner that I am today, he shaped me into the athlete that I am now, and even though my time as his athlete was cut short, he was always there supporting his athletes at the races, he stepped down but still supported each and every one of us. Coach Beam has always had an impact on his students and his athletes, he always showed support and whenever someone needed him, he was always there, as a teacher, coach, mentor, and a friend. I value Coach Beam and everything that I have learned from him throughout these years, and I will never forget him and the impact he had on my life. Coach Beam is more than worthy for this honor.
I want to express my deep appreciation for Coach Beam. It is rare to meet someone who has the ability to make everyone feel like they are a valuable asset to a team and in the classroom. Watching Mr. Beam coach my son and his teammates three years ago, I witnessed someone that not only took an interest in the "fastest" kids on the team, but athletes of all ability levels were given the same level of interest and encouragement. His positive energy and support was felt by all, yet he still demanded the athletes worked to their full potential. He inspired the athletes to want to become better/faster/stronger through his words and actions. He would always start with a positive note about the race followed by what they can work on to improve for the next one.
This same level of passion and caring is seen in the classroom as well. My son would come home excited to discuss what he learned in his government class. His teaching methods are not just rote memorization and regurgitation of facts; he creates an environment where critical thinking skills and learning to question, analyze, and evaluate information from various perspectives allowed my son (along with his class) to challenge ideas in a safe learning environment. Allowing the students to use their creativity in ways in which their own generation can connect instilled a love for learning in my son (His favorites included March Madness brackets for presidents and political party election project)
Thank you Coach Beam for your unwavering dedication to teaching and inspiring the next generation. You bring hope to all of us that there are still good people out there by sharing your positivity with the world!
My best friend!! Upbeat, encouraging, will never turn anyone away. My daughter had Mr. Beam as a teacher and he opened her eyes to the possibilities in life. She is now in Law School! Even though Bud is not currently coaching, athletes still gather to his room for encouragement and advice.
Did you ever know someone who makes everyone's day better just by being present? That's Coach Beam! He's the person people want to know because everyone else speaks highly of him. Parents, athletes, students, colleagues... He has a way of bringing out the best in everyone.
I can't agree more with Angie's testimony. While my son hasn't had a class with Coach Beam yet,he has definitely inspired and motivated my son to be a great leader and to stand up for what he believes in. I too have benefited from Coach Beams knowledge and he inspires me to be a better more engaged parent. His positive attitude and outlook are refreshing and he always has a smile and kind words.
We are delighted to see that an educator and mentor to our son has been nominated for this distinguished recognition. Coach Beam has been an integral force and positive influence for our son. As a freshman, our son displayed interest in cross country and decided to join the high school team. Coach Beam was the coach at the time and we, along with many parents, watched in awe as he ran back and forth, guiding, cheering and coaching the team along the path with endless energy. He made time to stop and speak with all the parents and his team. My son had doubts about his ability, but coach Beam stepped up everytime and provided encouragement, advise and inspired our son to work hard and continue.
The covid shutdown cut our sons track and cross country season down his sophomore year. Coach Beam found a way to start a club to allow his students to continue to compete which helped our son to continue running and to interact with other athletes. Many friendships flourished during this time and this kind act by coach Beam, helped many parents and students find a place to meet to help support one another during a difficult period.
Moving forward, coach Beam stepped down as lead coach for cross country, but this did not deter him from continuing to attend the races and he continued to mentor our son. By the end of his junior year, he qualified for regionals. His senior year, he placed at State in both cross country and track and field. Coach Beam was there with advise, made calls to our son, and continued to rally behind him and his original club group. Our son accepted a scholarship to Southern Utah University to run track and cross country. We credit coach Beam's influence and endless encouragement as the driving force behind our son's work ethic and success.
We hope you consider Coach Beam for this well deserved honor.
I never personally had coach beam as my coach, but my sister did and every single time I went to see her run, I could see how much coach beam cared for his runners and how much effort he put in for them. He is such an amazing coach and teacher and her deserved this award as much as anyone
Coach Beam has given nothing but inspiration, support, and love to my kids. He is a true representation of what a teacher, leader, and coach should be. Everyone who knows him is better for it.
I didn’t personally have Coach Beam as a teacher, but from the little time I was able to interact with him at lunch, he made a big impact on me. I could easily see what kind of leader and person he was. He deserves this more than anyone I know.
Many people know him as Mr.Beam but I know him as Coach Beam and he was not only a great teacher and coach but a great person always have a smile on his face and give positive feedbacks to everyone. Coach will always tries to support everyone in any possible way and have a conversation with anyone at anytime always helping out. His class has to be be my favorite class I took in all of my years in school. Knowing coach and learn from him is one of the greatest thing to happen to me not only learning about us history but I also learn how to become a better version of myself.
I had Mr. Beam as a teacher during 2010 and 2011 and he was the best teacher I have ever had. His lessons transcended the academic environment and had real life implications. Thank you for impacting my life the way you have Mr. Beam.
Coach Beam started out as a good older brother. Always there for his younger siblings. Kind to his classmates. A good team member as his high school basketball team took states. Always worked hard. Wore a tie for a test or a job interview. Strived to always increase his running times. From what I have seen a wonderful husband and father. So proud to call him my son.
Mr. Beam supported me during my junior year when I begun taking senior level courses. I had been the first junior in the class and he encouraged me to utilize my knowledge and engaged with me in an inspiring way. I did not go to most classes due to most of my teachers discouraging me and Mr. Beam always made me feel welcome, safe and energized to learn and perform in history.
Mr. Beam has been one of the safe places for me at school. I struggle with anxiety and have a hard time with attendance. He has always made it easy for me to want to go or at least know that someone cared about me and wanted to see me. He always gives a helping hand and truly cares about the people that come into his life.
I had Mr. Beam as my government teacher in high school. He has such an incredible and infectious attitude. He gets young people interested in history and politics, which is so important. He was always kind, understanding, and supportive of students’ extracurricular pursuits.
I’ll never pass up a moment to celebrate one of my all time favorite educators I’ve ever had the chance to be taught from! Mr. Beam is so full of wit and wisdom; to learn from him, you learn a lot about yourself and your community that we all live in. This is such an honor for him and it’s beyond well deserved. I’m so thankful to call the Beam family some good friends of mine even after high school (class of ‘19)
Mr. Beam/ Coach Beam is nothing short of one of the most incredible influences on my life. I am nearly 4 years out of high school and can confidentially say that Coach Beam has left a positive and incredible impact on my life. Anyone who knows him personally would agree as well. He is an uplifting and encouraging man who not only makes you excited about learning, but becoming your best self as well. I cannot recommend him enough for this award.
I had Mr. Beam in high school for history, and he had so much passion for the subject he was teaching that it was impossible to not feel like class time was really just story time told by an incredibly talented, engaged, smart, and entertaining storyteller. He was probably the kindest teacher I’ve ever had, and so fair, too. Looking back I honestly wish I took the time to pick his brain more just about life in general because I saw him impart wisdom and inspiration on my classmates that did take advantage of his super open door policy all the time. High school is a tough time for a lot of kids, and Mr. Beam just makes your day better. And he just cares. Not just about how you do in class but how the world is gonna be as a result of you holding yourself to higher standards. Big ol’ Beam family fan over here! (Shoutout Mrs. Beam! You are also one of my favorite teachers I ever had at GV! So funny and relatable and smart).
most genuine teacher i’ve ever had and created a safe place in his classroom for all of his students while making learning fun and effective. best teacher of my lifetime, actually :)
mr. beam has not only been an amazing teacher who made a huge impact on my understanding of and interest in the U.S. government, but he also has made a substantial impact on my life outside of the classroom, now many years later. he has welcomed me into his house and as a part of his family for the past 2 years as i started dating his oldest son, owen. he always welcomes me with a smile, just as he did when i entered the classroom in high school, takes time to make sure i am taken care of, and shows such genuine interest in things i have to say and share from my time in college. he always listens with an open mind and takes time to process each word i say which is more than i can say about most teachers i came across during my time in high school. there is no one that deserves this recognition more than mr. beam. my peers and i never had a bad thing to say about mr. beam and that trend has continued for as long as i can remember. his impact on others continues to stand the test of time and i’m so lucky to consider myself one of many people to experience his kindness, humor, and sincerity.
Absolutely grateful to have met Coach Beam while attending Green Valley HS a few years back.. Much respect for this man and the life lessons he taught me and my former XC teammates. Not just a great coach but also a great teacher. #4peat
I don’t even know where to start with how Coach Beam has affected both of my sons life’s. First there was Vincent who was on his cross country team at GVH for 3 years. Not his senior year because thanks covid. When he first joined the team as a freshman, Coach took him right under his wing and I watched him grow as a man and a runner. He had such patience with the kids and was right on the sidelines encouraging them all the way. When his son, Owen was Vincent’s roommate at CUI he came to every home race they had and continue to support and cheer him on. I will forever be grateful for the impact he had on my sons life. Second was my younger son Maddux. Not only was Coach cool with him when we would go and watch Vincent run he was also his Government teacher at GVH. He nominated Maddux for student of the month and always encouraged his learning. Maddux would always speak highly of Coach and all that he learned in his class. He said he was forever making it fun and interactive. Coach Beam also came to Maddux’s graduation party. He truly cares.
Mr. Beam will forever be my favorite teacher. He has helped me turn into the person i am today and i hope he knows that. He made my day and i know we made his. He is deserving of this award and i hope he wins. I love you mr.Beam and thank you for everything.
your favorite thomson
Mr. Beam is a legend, we still talk about him to this day and we haven't seen him in years. He's very involved with not just our school success, but our personal goals as well. He is a genuine person who goes above and beyond just teaching and understanding his students, high school wouldn't have been the same without him. I just hope he still has that legendary footwear on every Friday.
Coach Beam taught me some of the most important lessons in life. The most important I would have to say is that keeping a positive mindset changes everything. As my coach, he reminded me constantly that I needed to remain positive during the race in order to do my best. It wasn’t until I left for college that I realized he was teaching me and important life lesson. As I am entering my senior year of college, I completely recognize that Coach Beam was someone who helped change my life for the better and for that, I will be forever grateful. He made me feel like a someone, and there’s no one else like him.
I have had the great privilege of knowing Mr Beam for over 10 years. These past couple of years I have gotten to know him very well, as he was my XC coach, teacher for two years and a family friend. He is truly one of the best people I know, and I look up to him every day. The amount of passion he puts not only into his job, but into the students themselves is unmeasurable. He is one of the kindest most empathetic people I have ever met, and every time I talk to him, he gives me a new perspective on life. There are honestly no words for how much he has helped me, but Coach Beam has always been there for me, and I know he always will. I owe him so much, and will forever be grateful for the wonderful impact he has had on my life.
Mr. Beam was one of the best teachers I had while at GVHS. His ability to inspire students to pursue their passion is unmatched and I am forever grateful and appreciative that I had him as a teacher in high school. I wish nothing but the best for him and his family!!
I will never forget Coach Beam! He always reminded me that I was amazing no matter what. Even if I didn’t reach my goal, he always told me to keep pushing. He taught me to keep striving higher for myself and that I can do anything I put my mind to. I truly think his impact on my high school career both in and out of sports is what shaped me into who I am today. I can never thank him enough, best coach ever!!
A good caring, fun cross country coach. Will never forget his positive influence
My father has been one of the most influential people in my life as a coach throughout my life and as a teacher in high school. My father is the kind of man that would never ask anyone to do anything that he wouldn’t be willing to do himself. He is one of the most kind, self-less and intelligent (the list could go on and on) people I have ever encountered in my life. Thank you dad.
Drive by my old high school and just thought the other day about this amazing man and his awesome wife! Such amazing support and guidance I received from Mr. Beam as both my History and Government teacher! He was always approachable, I could come to him for support, advice, doodles on his white board, and letters of recommendation. He will remain in my memory forever as one of the best!
