Principal's Message

Welcome, Falcon Families!

My name is Nakelya Mullins, and I am honored to serve as the proud principal of University Place Elementary School. The 2025-2026 year begins my 21st year in education, with my entire career dedicated to the Tuscaloosa City Schools.

I began my journey as a Classroom Teacher, where I spent 4 years fostering a love of learning in students. I then served as an Instructional Coach for 4 years, supporting teachers in implementing effective instructional strategies to improve student achievement. After that, I embraced the role of Assistant Principal for 2 years, focusing on leadership and school improvement. For the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of serving as Principal, where my passion for education and student success continues to grow every day.

At UPES, our mission of “Growing Tomorrow’s Leaders Today” drives everything we do. During the 2024–2025 school year, we experienced tremendous growth, and we remain committed to using our data to drive daily instruction and decision-making to continuously improve student outcomes.

I am also the proud mother of 17-year-old twin boys (Taylor & Tyler) who are entering their senior year of high school. They inspire me daily to make today better than yesterday, and that same inspiration fuels my passion for creating meaningful opportunities for all students to thrive.

Our students deserve our very best, and I am confident that with our shared commitment, creativity, and heart, there is no goal we cannot reach. Let’s embrace this year with enthusiasm, positivity, and a mindset that every challenge is simply an opportunity for us to shine.

Here’s to a year of possibilities, progress, and purpose. Let’s show everyone that at UPES, NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE!

#WeAreFalcons #FalconsPride #FalconStrong #NothingIsImpossible #UPESLeads