Assistant Principal Moves Up at West Tuscaloosa’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary

West Tuscaloosa's Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School has a new principal, who is stepping up after his predecessor left the system to take another role in Huntsville.

The Tuscaloosa City Board of Education approved Dannon Bedwell to lead the school on Tuesday, succeeding Dr. LaTanya Williams-Collins, who recently accepted an administrative position with Huntsville City Schools. Bedwell has served as MLK’s assistant principal since 2020.

Under Williams-Collins, MLK earned recognition as a CLAS School of Distinction and a State School of Character while posting significant academic gains - a foundation Superintendent Mike Daria said positions Bedwell well to build on.

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"He knows the students, staff and community, and he's played a key role in the work that's helped move the school forward," Daria said. "We believe he's well-positioned to continue that progress while bringing his own strengths and vision to the role."

Bedwell brings 13 years of experience in education to the role, including more than 5 years in administration. He joined Tuscaloosa City Schools in 2012 as a physical education teacher at Northington Elementary, later moved to Central Elementary, and then stepped into an administrative role.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in physical education from the University of Alabama, a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of West Alabama, and an education specialist degree from UWA. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in educational leadership from Alabama.

"This school has been my home for nearly five years, and I have been blessed to serve the students, staff and families of the Tuscaloosa City Schools for more than a decade," Bedwell said.

He credited his predecessor for laying the groundwork he now inherits.

"MLK's success did not happen by accident," Bedwell said. "Dr. Collins built a strong foundation centered on excellence, relationships and high expectations. I am grateful for her mentorship, and any success I have as principal will be built upon the foundation she helped establish."

Looking ahead, Bedwell said his focus will be on strengthening student achievement, deepening family and community engagement, and continuing to invest in teachers and staff, without straying from what's already working.

"My goal is not to come in and change what makes MLK special," he said. "My goal is to build upon the great work already taking place while continuing to move the school forward. The MLK Way — Intelligence, Character and Perseverance — will remain at the center of every decision we make."

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