Miia Pallase (24.04.1952–08.06.2026), who led Pühajärve Basic School for the last 25 years, was a key figure in the school's survival. After graduating from the University of Tartu's Faculty of Physical Education in 1975, she worked as a coach, then as a physical education teacher and head of the education department, before taking over at Pühajärve School in 1995. Pallase is remembered as an enthusiastic leader who defended the school, including in 2010 when the community successfully fought against its closure. Under her leadership, Pühajärve Basic School was named the most beautiful school in Estonia in 2007, and she also helped Puka Art School to survive. Pallase was also a successful athlete, a six-time Estonian champion in basketball.