Dr. Combs told the Tipton County Schools board that he intends to retire as superintendent effective June 2026, a move the board accepted during its regular meeting. In a letter read aloud, Combs said his 33 years of service "have been an esteemed honor," and he expressed gratitude for the board's oversight during his eight years in the superintendent role.

The board acknowledged the resignation and discussed next steps for finding a successor. Administrators said they have contacted the Tennessee School Boards Association (TSBA) to assist with recruitment. TSBA will help line up candidates and prepare a timetable; board members were told interviews and additional work sessions will be scheduled in January to set qualifications and the superintendent salary range.

Board members praised Combs's tenure and said they intend to conduct a deliberate transition. One member noted the district's recent operational challenges and recoveries under Combs's leadership, citing recovery from COVID impacts, flood and tornado damage, and rebuilding projects. The board plans a multi-step hiring process in January, including work sessions and meetings to finalize qualification criteria and compensation before selecting finalists.

The district will circulate TSBA materials and candidate bios in advance of interview dates. No final hiring decision was made at the meeting; officials said the board could act once finalists are interviewed and schedules permit.