Combs Elementary in Raleigh | Military Town Advisor

Category	Rating	Details
Test Scores	8/10	The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 North Carolina End-of-Course Tests data from North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, and using 2025 North Carolina End-of-Grade Tests data from North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.
Student Growth	9/10	The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2024 Student growth data from North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.

Posted: May 18, 2026

We have two children with very different needs. I've found the teachers to be responsive, thoughtful and creative, and the staff to be loving and helpful. The PTA is also very involved with the school, and I feel like it's an environment where everyone is supported to the best of their abilities. It's also adorable that there are CHICKENS on site.

Posted: May 18, 2026

Posted: January 4, 2024

Incredible school and thats why we are willing to drive 30mins to send my kids to this school.

Posted: January 4, 2024

Posted: December 18, 2023

Incredible environment that Combs Elementary has provided for my child over the past academic year. As a parent, it brings me great joy to share the positive experiences we've had with this outstanding educational institution.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Combs Elementary is the unwavering support that teachers provide to each and every student. From day one, it was evident that the faculty is deeply committed to fostering a nurturing and engaging learning environment. The dedication and passion exhibited by the teachers have not only instilled a love for learning in my children but have also significantly contributed to their academic and personal growth.
What sets Combs apart is the genuine concern the staff demonstrates for the individual needs of each student. The genuine dedication of the teachers towards my children's academic development encourages my kids to do well in academics, and it helps them build their self-confidence and self-esteem. The open lines of communication between teachers, parents, and administrators create a collaborative and supportive community that truly puts the needs of the students first. So happy with AB Combs Elementary school.

Posted: December 18, 2023

Wonderful, supportive, loving school with a diverse, kind and bright bunch of students.

Posted: December 18, 2023

Combs is the best school! We absolutely love it there, it feels like family, everyone knows my kids names and it has an amazing environment, I love the diversity, inclusion, support and the leadership program is amazing!!

Posted: December 18, 2023

Posted: November 2, 2023

I really enjoyed my experience at this school! Most of my teachers were amazing and I definitely learned a ton and most importantly, was encouraged in my curiosity! I felt very safe and welcomed by all the students and staff. I also really loved all the school activities we did and both of our playgrounds were amazing! The only thing I hated was that we had to be quiet for a portion of lunch so the cafeteria wouldnt get too loud which was just utterly ridiculous. However I loved the awesome library and all the opportunities the school provided!

Posted: November 2, 2023

Posted: February 5, 2022

Wonderful experience with wonderful educators and human beings, from administrators, teachers, counselors, cafeteria staff, everyone in this school genuinely care about the children. We are grateful for all the hard work and dedication of all staff at AB Combs. A great place to mould and shape your children to be a great leader: unselfish, considerate, wise, fair, kind, smart, and appreciate diversity and inclusion. Thank you for keeping the children safe during this tough times.

Posted: February 5, 2022

Posted: February 4, 2022

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should you consider this school! The principal is denying a medical exemption for a child with a serious condition that prohibits mask wearing for any time frame! The principal is overriding the directive of a medical doctor. Now the principal is denying the family's right to public education by expelling him from school.

Posted: February 4, 2022

Posted: February 3, 2022

This principal is denying a signed medical mask exemption for a student. The principal is NOT a medical doctor. She is denying this child's right to an education. DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD TO THIS SCHOOL!

Posted: January 26, 2022

Combs has been an amazing school for my children! There is nothing that I haven't loved about our experience here thus far. From the teachers, to the administrative staff to all others - everyone is encouraging, caring and giving. My kids love going to school each day, and are genuinely happy about learning and being with their teachers. I also appreciate the small group learning that they incorporate throughout the day, so that students can receive more personalized instruction along with their peers. Also, the leadership focus of this school is outstanding. It has encouraged my children in ways that will impact them throughout their educational careers. They understand how to be a leader, the importance of good leadership and the ways in which they can become better leaders and citizens.

Posted: January 26, 2022

Posted: November 11, 2021

We began our experience with Combs Elementary almost 7 years and 3 kids ago and we have never been disappointed in our choice! From the first magnet tour, being welcomed into the colorful hallways and friendly classrooms, it felt like coming home. The warmth and nurturing spirit of all of the staff, from the administration to the teachers and support staff, feels like a family more than a school. No matter how busy they are, everyone stops to say "hello" and somehow they seem know the names of each and every student and their siblings and take a true interest in their wellbeing and success. The expectations of leadership in and out of school are are set from the first day and weaved into everything that they learn, so the students are creating beneficial life skills and habits in all that they do. Opportunities to be leaders are offered from Kindergarten throughout 5th grade. I cannot say enough about how highly I would recommend Combs to anyone looking for a foundation in leadership and success. It is truly unlike any other!

Posted: November 11, 2021

Posted: November 7, 2021

Combs Elementary is a hidden treasure that we stumbled upon as we were checking out Elementary schools for our twin boys. We had no idea there were so many options and differences among Elementary schools. We walked into our base school which is a highly sought magnet and felt nervous and other schools just felt like schools. When we entered Combs with the bright cheery artwork adorning the halls, the music Happy playing, The big Lego giraffe for their stem Lego program and the covey habits and words in inspiration all over the gym walls we thought is this place for real? We then met our principal and some people talk and they make you feel at ease, at home, loved and safe. This is Combs. We have the most amazing principal who had been our believed assistant principal for the past few years. All Combs staff will treat your child like their own. Ill never forget hearing my twins playing legos after they had been at Combs just a few months talking about how they needed to make their Lego building/sharing win win for each other. Combs will teach your child the basics but Combs will do so much more. Combs is truly building leaders. If you have the opportunity to to become a member of the Combs family then I urge you to not let that opportunity pass you by.

Posted: November 7, 2021

Posted: September 30, 2021

Combs Elementary is the most amazing school in our area! The teachers and staff are competent, communicative, and very loving towards the students. The leadership program has been invaluable with raising our children to be strong leaders. There is a very active PTA as well which is wonderful! And I live that the neighborhood the school is located in is very safe. We feel so lucky and proud to be a part of the Combs community! I can't recommend Combs enough!!

Posted: September 30, 2021

Posted: September 27, 2021

We have had nothing but positive experiences with my child at Combs. They truly pinpoint the unique traits of each child and give them an outlet to help them grow, shine, and lead with confidence! They were able to navigate the unknowns and chaos of virtual learning and returning back in person while modeling grace and patience. My child loves going to school daily, and I love knowing that he is safe and cared for. I can't wait for my other children to also attend Combs, we are so thankful for this amazing staff!

Posted: September 27, 2021

The staff and curriculum at AB Combs is second to none. Teaching the habits of highly effective people instills leadership at an early age, which will set our children up for success. We love the school and are fortunate to be a part of such an amazing group of educators and parents.

Posted: September 26, 2021

I am the sort of parent who extensively reviews every thing before choosing something for my child, whether it is a toy, an activity or a snack. You can believe that picking a school that will shape his formative years took a lot more work. In doing that I could not find a single negative review or one person who did not rave about Combs. There is a reason for that! Combs teachers and staff are absolutely amazing, our children are thriving and blossoming into kind, compassionate individuals. The Leadership magnet curriculum certainly teaches our children to be better individuals while uplifting others. Every child is happy going into that school and you can not go wrong with sending your child to Combs.

Posted: September 26, 2021

We absolutely LOVE Combs! This is our 5th year there and our boys are in 2nd & 4th grades. Truly a community. Everyone knows the kids & the kids are supported and enriched academically as well as emotionally. The teachers and staff go above and beyond. Cannot say enough!

Posted: September 26, 2021

Combs has gone above and beyond for my child. Not only are their academics on point, so is their leadership.

Posted: September 26, 2021

Posted: December 2, 2019

Turning a blind eye is never a solution.

Posted: December 2, 2019

Horribly wrong lazy staff and always making parents deal with things they should be handling bus 511 is a hot mess never on time small kids standing outside for over 30 minutes.

Posted: September 5, 2019

The teacher tailor the homework based on the student's needs and progress. It's very flexible.

Posted: September 5, 2019

Our teacher always responds my questions very quickly, either through e-mail or a cell phone App called Remind. They also have weekly newsletter to tell parents what was going around in the class so parents can keep up with the student's learning and know their daily life.

Posted: September 5, 2019

This is my favorite part about Combs. The leadership focus really help develop strong character in young kids with constant practices in their daily life. For example, when the kid misbehaved, the teacher will say he/she made a wrong choice instead of yelling. They will direct the kid to choose what's the right thing to do and be responsible.

Posted: September 5, 2019

Can't say enough good thing about the leadership model in this school. It's well-organized and every teacher seem so devoted in what they are doing.

Posted: September 5, 2019

An Amazing school with so many loving and devoted teachers, staff, PTA and the principal. We love everything about this school. I feel very assured that my child will receive solid and wholesome education here.

Posted: August 17, 2019

There is so much kindness and respect for everyone. Families are highly valued. I see my kids growing not only acedemically but socially and emotionally as well. They are developing excellent leadership skills such as public speaking. We have been so impressed with this school and feel very blessed to be able to send our children here.

Posted: August 17, 2019

While 20 minutes per night seems like too much for a 1st and 2nd-grade teacher the teachers are very flexible about tailoring homework for each child depending on their needs.

Posted: August 17, 2019

Teachers are very kind, compassionate and passionate about each child succeeding and meeting their personal goals they set at the beginning of each year.

Posted: August 17, 2019

The teachers, assistant principal and principal are given great respect by all the students. They are able to keep control of the classroom in a calm and respectful manner. They do not raise their voices, and know each child by name.

Posted: August 17, 2019

My children's teachers have been very good to tailor work and homework to meet the individual needs of my children.

Posted: August 17, 2019

Posted: June 27, 2019

Fantastic! I love everything about this school - teachers, administrators, PTA, leadership development curriculum.

Posted: June 27, 2019

Posted: August 22, 2018

I have a lot on my plate (as any parent does). I try to help my kids with their homework as much as I can, but in addition to the time constraints, there is also the issue of knowing the material myself. While I have not been able to attend any of the teaching sessions, they do take the time to teach the parents the material in order for us to help our child when needed. And when you cant attend those sessions, they send a handout to detail the information they go over. What I like most, however is that they teach the children that it isnt the responsibility of the parent, but that of the child. They are ultimately responsible for themselves. They learn to put first things first. I feel that parents arent supposed to be controlling every portion of their childrens schooling. This is the time for them to fail at times, learn from those failures, and become stronger for doing so. I will be there to remind them to do their homework, or be available for questions when needed, but I want them to be the ones who do the majority of the work.

Posted: August 22, 2018

I have only had experience with 3 different teachers, but I like that they are all on the same page as far as teaching from the 8 habits. It helps to have that consistency throughout the school. The kids know what to expect even as they move into a new classroom.

Posted: August 22, 2018

I havent had any issues with bullying. Everyone seems to be respectful and they have a counselor that helps them navigate their emotional challenges along the way. They have regular group talks about issues that they might be dealing with and how they should deal with them.

Posted: August 22, 2018

My kids are very strong willed, outspoken, and some would say difficult. Other schools have looked at that as a bad thing. This school has taken their strengths and developed them in a more productive way. It is because of this that I feel that my kids have increased self confidence, and have become more responsible overall.

Posted: August 22, 2018

I havent had any issues in this area. For that reason I am assuming they are doing a good job.

Posted: August 22, 2018

Love it! I had my oldest child at another school for the 1st 2 years and was very dissatisfied even though the school had a 10 rating. They didnt teach her anything. She was light years above her peers and because of that, she wasnt taught anything new. She started getting in trouble for talking during class and didnt look forward to school like she had for preschool. She was difficult to control away from school as well. Since the change, she has been happy to go each morning, interested in participating in the different school activities, and has been more responsible in her home life as well. She is going on year 3 at this school and I am sad that it doesnt continue on through at least middle school.

Posted: November 3, 2016

No direct experience, but I can't believe this wouldn't be the case. My kids have never been bullied nor have ever witnessed anything like bullying. Strong and consistent anti-bullying message.

Posted: November 3, 2016

I can't speak to this directly, though I can't imagine this wouldn't be the case.

Posted: November 3, 2016

Principal Summers is the reigning Wake County Principal of the Year for a reason. She loves each and every one of those kids for who they are. And she inspires her staff to be just like her. She's the best.

Posted: November 3, 2016

The leadership magnet theme infuses The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People into everything done in and out of the classroom. The impact on the children is remarkable. They are happy, get along great and are conscientious about being good students and citizens. Principal Summers developed this program with the Covey Foundation, and it's now being duplicated all over the world. Remarkable to be at the birthplace of this educational movement.

Posted: November 3, 2016

Caring, nurturing, and diligent. Every teacher buys into the school's mission and works hard for every child.

Posted: November 3, 2016

Children are eased into it. The work is just challenging enough. They are encouraged to "put first things first" and do their homework soon after arriving at home or during after-care - a great lesson in responsibility and how taking care of what must be done is freeing!

Posted: November 3, 2016

Combs inspires children to be responsible, caring and curious about the world. The leadership magnet theme has done wonders for my children. Principal Summers is a dream - she truly cares about every child. There is a positive feeling throughout the school. Teachers and students both work hard but have lots of fun doing it! We truly feel this school is laying the foundation for bright futures.

Posted: June 2, 2014

combs elementary school is an excellent school for children as well as for preschool. i love combs

Posted: March 17, 2014

What a wonderful school! Combs Elementary has been instrumental in my child's success. The respect, kindness, love and leadership that staff and students show one another is remarkable. I only wish I had been so lucky as a child. I know my children will be prepared to go to the next level and continue to succeed in whatever path they choose.

Posted: November 20, 2013

My son has been at Combs since kindergarten. He is now in 5th grade and we have loved every year we have been there. The staff go well above and beyond to help the kids. They love the kids at the school and you will find them telling the children all the time that they "love" them. There needs to be more leadership schools just like Combs! We are sad that this is our last year.

Posted: October 24, 2013

Both my daughters attend A B Combs, they love it there. They are always learning about leadership roles and responsibility. I'm very pleased to send my children to Combs elementary

Posted: November 15, 2010

No school is perfect and Combs is no exception. It's a nice school, but not without its issues. Inexperienced teachers lacking self-confidence can develop misunderstandings with parents. The administration will back the teachers up no matter what. There's an unwillingness to acknowledge fault or shortcomings on their part. The praise this school has received seems to have gone to their heads a bit. Be sure to document everything, especially if you have a child with special needs. Also, ask if your child's teacher has experience teaching children with your child's special need to hopefully avoid problems later. I think this school has some very good teachers, but some could improve with better training on dealing with certain types of students and in dealing sensitively with parents. The administration could definitely learn to deal more sensitively with parents and learn to acknowledge their school is not perfect----there is always room for improvement!

Posted: May 12, 2010

The teachers and staff are phenomenal! We are so lucky our son is able to learn at such a wonderful place and from such talented individuals. Combs prepares our kids to be confident respectful leaders. A++

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Eagle Ridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Raleigh	NC	7.6 mi
2	Hedingham	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Raleigh	NC	9.1 mi
3	Winston Pointe	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Clayton	NC	13.5 mi
4	Forest Oaks	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Bunnlevel	NC	35.4 mi
5	Anderson Creek Club	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Spring Lake	NC	36.7 mi
6	The Summit	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Sanford	NC	36.9 mi
7	Sunset Ridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Sanford	NC	37.3 mi
8	Overhills Creek	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Spring Lake	NC	38.6 mi
9	Ellerslie Subdivision	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fayetteville	NC	38.9 mi
10	Castlebrooke	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Linden	NC	39.3 mi
11	Carolina Seasons	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Cameron	NC	39.8 mi
12	Forest Ridge	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Cameron	NC	40.8 mi
13	Kings Grant	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fayetteville	NC	42.6 mi
14	Deerfield	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Spring Lake	NC	42.7 mi
15	Inverness	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fayetteville	NC	44.1 mi
16	Patriot Park Village	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fayetteville	NC	44.1 mi
17	Stonegate Apartments	Apartment Complex	Spring Lake	NC	44.2 mi
18	Kinwood	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Fayetteville	NC	44.9 mi
19	College Lakes	Area of Town	Fayetteville	NC	45.4 mi
20	Woodlake	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Vass	NC	46.4 mi

#	Name	City	State	Distance
1	Princeton	Princeton	NC	37.1 mi
2	North Ramsey Road	Fayetteville	NC	40.6 mi
3	Spring Lake	Spring Lake	NC	44.4 mi
4	Spring Lake by Ft Bragg Base	Spring Lake	NC	44.7 mi
5	Eastwood Ave & Kentberry Ct.	Fayetteville	NC	47.7 mi

Base	Distance
Raleigh National Guard	2.5 mi.
Pope Field	44.9 mi.

Combs Elementary

Raleigh, NC 27606

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Combs Elementary

Raleigh, NC 27606

School Ratings

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