Brittany Grayson Named New Principal Of University Place Elementary School

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa City Board of Education unanimously approved Brittany Grayson as the next principal of University Place Elementary School during its meeting Tuesday night.

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Grayson begins her new role Wednesday and replaces longtime principal Nakelya Mullins, who was named principal of Westlawn Middle School last month.

TCS says Grayson is in her 17th year in education and has spent 15 years with Tuscaloosa City Schools.

She most recently served as assistant principal at Central High School, where her responsibilities included instructional leadership, student support, school operations, family engagement and schoolwide communication.

“I am truly honored and excited for the opportunity to serve as the next principal of University Place Elementary School,” Grayson said. “I’m grateful for the trust that has been placed in me, and I look forward to getting to know our students, staff, families and community. I’m ready to get to work and build on the great things already happening at UPES.”

TCS Superintendent Mike Daria said Grayson’s experience in the district and commitment to students made her well suited to lead University Place.

“Ms. Grayson brings a strong combination of instructional leadership, experience and a genuine commitment to students and families,” Daria said. “She knows the Tuscaloosa City Schools, she understands the importance of building strong relationships, and she has demonstrated that she is ready to lead.”

Grayson began her career as an elementary school teacher, working at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School and Southview Elementary School from 2011 to 2018.

She later served as a school counselor at Eastwood Middle School and was also the district’s lead middle school counselor before moving into administration.

Grayson earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in school counseling from the University of West Alabama.

She also completed instructional leadership studies at UWA and is pursuing a doctorate in rural education.

“My first priority is to listen, learn and build strong relationships with our students, staff and families,” Grayson said. “I want us to continue creating a positive school culture while maintaining high expectations for teaching and learning.”

Grayson said her ultimate goal is for every student at University Place to feel supported and challenged while looking forward to coming to school each day.

“Leadership is not just about leading a school; it is about believing in people, creating opportunities for every child to succeed, and building a school community where we grow tomorrow’s leaders today,” she said.

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