The Pickens County Board of Education approved leadership changes at its March 6, 2026 meeting that will take effect for the 2026–2027 school year.
Dr. Brandon Tippens has been named the next Principal of Pickens High School. Dr. Tippens is a 15-year educator who has spent the past 12 years at Pickens High School, where he has served as a classroom teacher, Lead Special Education Teacher, Special Education Department Head, and Assistant Principal. For the past three years, he has also served as Director of PACE. Dr. Tippens holds a Doctorate in School Improvement from the University of West Georgia.
Current Pickens High School Principal Matt Combs will transition to the role of Director of Curriculum, replacing Anita Walker, who will be retiring.
Mr. Combs has served as principal of Pickens High School for the past three years and is currently completing his 24th year in education. During his tenure, the school has made progress in several key areas, including improved graduation rates, growth on the state report card, and continued efforts to strengthen academic rigor while fostering a supportive learning environment.
“We greatly appreciate the leadership and dedication Mr. Combs has shown at Pickens High School, and we look forward to him bringing his experience and expertise to our district office,” said Dr. Thomas, Superintendent of Pickens County Schools. “We are also excited for the vision and leadership Dr. Tippens will bring as the new principal of Pickens High School.”
