About me
Outside the classroom, my life is filled with exploring outdoor markets, snapping memorable photos of my precious ‘grand’, and organizing the next big family adventure. When I’m not tackling a tricky puzzle or engaging in competitive card games with my family, I’m likely binge-watching a new series with my two Bernedoodles or catching up with lifelong friends over coffee. Above all, I’m a devoted wife, a proud mom to three young men, and a loyal friend. Conferences are one of my favorite places to connect with other passionate educators who are eager to learn and exchange ideas! My journey as an educator has taken me from being a classroom teacher for Trussville City Schools to roles as a local reading specialist, assistant principal, and principal at Mountain Brook Elementary. My time has also been spent serving as an adjunct professor at UAB and Samford University - both of my alma maters. Every position I have been fortunate to hold has grown my perspective about teaching and learning, deepened my core values, and strengthens my beliefs about the importance of relationships. Every interaction with students, parents, colleagues, leaders, and mentors continues to shape me into a better version of myself. I absolutely love my current role as an Instructional Partner for Vestavia Hills City Schools! Our team works to bring the district’s vision to life within our respective schools. We are sometimes referred to as the ‘linchpin’ or ‘bridge’ that aims to build districtwide cohesion in MTSS implementation with access to high-leverage instructional practices in every classroom, PLCs, professional growth through learning walks and instructional rounds, and developing teacher leadership capacity. Our dedication to mentorships and retaining quality teachers is of primary importance. I’m especially passionate about supporting teachers through National Board Certification and mentoring aspiring administrators in Samford’s Instructional Leadership cohort. Grounded in the belief that culture shapes everything, I often draw on Brené Brown’s insight that “belonging is being accepted for who you are,” to reinforce that safe, inclusive learning environments are not optional—they are the conditions that make high levels of success possible for every student to ‘learn without limits’. I am always looking for opportunities to think, collaborate, and grow alongside other educators, with our students leading the way. I hope you will join me! To the possibilities… -Ashley E. McCombs, EdS, NBCT
