The Harbor Beach Community Schools Board of Education announced the appointment of Mr. William C. Chilman IV as the new Superintendent of Schools. The approval came during a regular school board meeting held on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. The 6-0 vote reflects the board's confidence in Mr. Chilman's leadership and extensive experience in public education.

William C. Chilman IV brings over 30 years of valuable experience in the field of education. Prior to joining Harbor Beach Community Schools, he served as the Superintendent of Beal City Public Schools for the past 17 years. His career in education began at Brimley Area Public Schools, where he spent three years as a Health/PE and Science teacher, as well as the district’s Athletic Director. In the winter of 1997, Chilman continued his career at Meridian Public Schools in Sanford, MI.  There he served as the principal of Meridian Junior High School for 10 years.

A native of Gladwin, Mr. Chilman received his bachelor’s degree in education from Central Michigan University (CMU) and later pursued a master’s degree in educational administration from Northern Michigan University (NMU). He completed his educational specialist’s degree in educational leadership from CMU.

Mr. Chilman's intention as the new superintendent will be to enhance the already established educational success of Harbor Beach Community Schools; academically, artistically, and athletically. Chilman stated, “I will use a motto I have focused on over my entire career, Educational Teamwork Today for Educational Excellence Tomorrow.” He emphasized five key responsibilities he believes a superintendent should consider daily: 1) improving student achievement and engagement to encourage a world-class learning environment, 2) building strong relationships with our students and staff to help create a positive school climate and culture, 3) being vigilant on student and staff health as well as school safety and security, 4) maintaining fiscal integrity for the school district and the taxpayers, and 5) fostering positive school and community relations throughout the Harbor Beach community, the greater Thumb region, and the State of Michigan.

Outside of his professional commitments, Mr. Chilman is a sports enthusiast. He also enjoys antiquing, landscaping, cooking, and most importantly spending time with his family. Bill and his wife, Tami have two sons and their families, Bill (Alexis) and Logan (Shelby), that they are very proud of.  

Excited about their new chapter in Harbor Beach, the Chilman family looks forward to becoming an integral part of the Harbor Beach community and the greater Thumb region over the coming years. As Mr. Chilman assumes his role, he hopes the Harbor Beach community will join him to helping expand the educational excellence the Harbor Beach Community School Pirates have cultivated for over 100 years.

The “Pirate Way”

Harbor Beach Community Schools

Superintendent, William C. Chilman IV, ED.S.

Learning the “Pirate Way