Tuscaloosa Librarian Katy Busby Named Alabama Elementary Teacher Of The Year Finalist

TUSCALOOSA, AL — A Tuscaloosa City Schools (TCS) librarian has been named among the top elementary educators in Alabama and was surprised with the honor on Monday.

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Katy Busby, librarian at Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools–Elementary, has been selected as one of 16 finalists for Alabama Elementary Teacher of the Year.

Busby will now advance in the selection process, competing to be named one of four finalists. TCS says that from that group, the Alabama Elementary Teacher of the Year will be chosen.

The announcement came as a surprise Monday afternoon when Busby entered the school cafeteria to find students and staff gathered to celebrate her recognition.

Tuscaloosa City Schools Superintendent Mike Daria said Busby’s impact in her school is clear.

“I was in her library during a lesson last week, and to see the enthusiasm, the knowledge, and the level of engagement from her students, it’s absolute magic,” Daria said. “That’s what our teachers do. They create these incredible learning experiences every day that help students love learning and understand how it connects beyond the classroom. That’s what Ms. Busby does so well.”

Daria said Busby exemplifies excellence in education while also elevating expectations for others in the profession.

“She is not only a gold standard of excellence in teaching, but someone who helps us continually raise that standard,” he said. “She doesn’t just meet expectations, she helps redefine them. You see it in her work, in how she connects with students, and in the care she shows for her school and our entire system.”

The recognition is particularly significant for Tuscaloosa City Schools, he said, noting it has been more than a decade since a district educator was named among the state’s top 16 finalists.

“This honor reflects the outstanding work happening in our schools every day,” he said.

Busby spent 15 years in the classroom before transitioning to her role as a librarian four years ago and was previously named Tuscaloosa City Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year in December 2025.

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