October is National Principals Month, and we’re celebrating the people who lead our schools by sharing a closer look at the work they do and the relationships they build each day.
At Jasper Middle School, lunchtime is Mrs. Miranda Combs’ favorite part of the day. She sits with students, hears their jokes, asks what they’re looking forward to and learns who they are beyond the classroom. Some share a story, others just stop by to chat with her. Those ordinary moments reflect the school community she hopes to build, one where every student feels known, valued and heard.
That belief in listening and kindness reaches beyond the cafeteria. Mrs. Combs says she tries not to hurt any living thing, from a mouse to a bug. Every creature has a purpose, and there is always a lesson to be learned if we pay attention. “I genuinely believe that every student and teacher brings something unique and valuable to our community, and when we take the time to truly listen to one another, we all grow together.”
Her approach began early in her career as a substitute teacher. One middle school student, despite facing challenges at home, showed her how humor and conversation can brighten a difficult day. He taught her to ask, listen and find reasons to laugh together. Mrs. Combs still makes room for laughter. Every now and then, she slips into a class line headed to lunch or connections to see how long she can go unnoticed. “We rarely last long before the students and I burst out laughing,” she says. “Those joyful interactions build genuine connections and remind us all to enjoy the journey.”
When a student makes a mistake, Mrs. Combs starts by listening. She asks, “Were you your best self in that moment?” and uses the answer to open a conversation about growth and accountability. Consequences may follow, but she wants students to know one mistake does not define them. “Tomorrow is a brand-new day, and I care about you no matter what,” she tells them.
Education has long been part of Mrs. Combs’ family. Her mother and grandparents were educators, and her husband is Pickens County’s Director of Curriculum. Their daughter is a junior at PHS in the Health Occupations Pathway, and their son recently graduated from PHS and is preparing for U.S. Air Force basic training. Mrs. Combs hopes JMS students remember the warmth, laughter and care that helped them through hard days, and know they mattered.
