Mrs. McCombs' educational background begins with her graduation from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. From 2005-2007, she attended Samford University where she received a master’s degree in Elementary Education. At the conclusion of 2007, she also obtained a National Board certification as a Middle Childhood Generalist and went on to mentor others in this endeavor. In August of 2010, she accepted a degree as an Educational Specialist in Elementary Education from Samford University. In July of 2012, she received a certification in Instructional Leadership from…you guessed it, Samford University. Mrs. McCombs latest learning endeavor was for renewal of her National Board certification. This opened many doors for her work in the field of administration, and Mrs. McCombs is extremely elated to work in such an environment where excellence is only the floor.  

By nature, Mrs. McCombs is both a teacher and a student. Trussville City Schools was where she began her career in education and where she remained in the classroom for over eight years. She taught 4^th graders for four years before ‘looping’ to 5^th grade and teaching the same group of students for their 4^th and 5^th grade school years. She remained a 5^th grade teacher for another four years, at which time she was one of three teaching teams who were fortunate to teach an ‘all girls’ class.

As many of you may know, Mrs. McCombs served as the Literacy Coach for MBE for two years before transitioning into the role of assistant principal for four years. Since 2016, she has proudly served as the principal of Mountain Brook Elementary. She is rewarded daily through the relationships built with colleagues, parents, students, and leaders in the Mountain Brook community. Professional development continues to be at the forefront of her life’s work in education. Collaboration with teachers and sharing of best practices are moral imperatives. The focus on instructional leadership and developing capacity in teacher leaders continues to have a significant and positive impact on the achievement of all students. 

The late Stephen R. Covey acknowledged, “The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.” Mrs. McCombs is currently in her 13th year at MBE, and this quote reminds her of what is most important in the work of educators - relationships. The success of students depends on the opportunities provided for them to grow in their strengths and the confidence to share them with the world. Fostering a love for learning is critical as educators develop the minds and lifelong habits of children. Our journey in life takes us down many paths, and Mrs. McCombs' has brought her to MBE to serve every member of the school community. As the year progresses, let us remember to keep the best interests of the students our top priority. It takes an honest, collective effort to make the most informed decisions for children. Thank you for entrusting Mrs. McCombs with leading and loving each of your children and instilling in them a life message about what it means to lead from the heart. Go Lancers!