Nakelya Mullins Named Interim Principal Of Westlawn Middle School

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa City Board of Education on Tuesday approved the appointment of veteran educator Nakelya Mullins as interim principal of Westlawn Middle School.

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Mullins succeeds Darlene Atkins, who is leaving Westlawn Middle School to take an administrative position with the Tuscaloosa County School System.

A 21-year veteran of Tuscaloosa City Schools (TCS), Mullins has served the district in a variety of leadership roles, including teacher, instructional coach, Summer Learning director, assistant principal and principal.

Most recently, she led University Place Elementary School, where district leaders said she helped foster strong academic achievement while emphasizing high expectations and positive relationships.

Superintendent Mike Daria praised Mullins' leadership experience and said she is well-positioned to continue the school's recent success.

"Ms. Mullins is an experienced and accomplished school leader with a proven record of academic success and a deep commitment to students, families and employees," Daria said. "Under Dr. Atkins' leadership, Westlawn Middle School has built tremendous momentum through a clear vision, dedicated staff and a steadfast focus on student success. I am confident Ms. Mullins has the experience and leadership to build upon the strong foundation that has already been established."

Westlawn Middle School has earned numerous honors in recent years, including recognition as both a State School of Character and a National School of Character.

The campus also has been named a CLAS School of Distinction, received Tuscaloosa City Schools' Moving the Needle Award and was recognized by United Way for its commitment to community service.

Academically, the school achieved the highest Alabama School Report Card score in its history while being removed from both the state's Priority Schools list and the Targeted Support Schools list.

Mullins said she is looking forward to serving the Westlawn community.

"I am honored and excited to begin year 22 with Tuscaloosa City Schools as the interim principal of Westlawn Middle School alongside a dedicated team of educators, students, families and community members who make Westlawn so special," Mullins said.

She said her priorities will include building meaningful relationships, maintaining high expectations and ensuring every student feels supported while continuing the school's tradition of excellence.

TCS says Mullins and Atkins will work together over the coming days to ensure a smooth leadership transition before the start of the new school year.

The district also announced it has posted the principal position at University Place Elementary School and has begun the search for Mullins' successor.

The appointment will be announced after a candidate is selected and approved by the Tuscaloosa City Board of Education.

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