Kiera Ezell Named New Principal At Oakdale Elementary

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa City Board of Education this week approved Kiera Ezell as the new principal of Oakdale Elementary School.

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Ezell will begin her new role during the 2025–26 school year and has previously served as the assistant principal at University Place Elementary since 2022.

Tuscaloosa City Schools (TCS) says Ezell brings 13 years of experience in K–12 education. She also previously worked as a literacy specialist at Southview Elementary and as a reading interventionist at Westlawn Middle School.

Ezell is a graduate of the University of West Alabama and holds an education specialist degree in instructional leadership, two master’s degrees and a bachelor’s degree.

TCS Superintendent Mike Daria expressed confidence in Ezell’s leadership before pointing out that her appointment follows the retirement of longtime principal Lucille Prewitt, who served Oakdale for 26 years and worked in the city school system for 42 years.

“Dr. Prewitt’s impact on Oakdale is immeasurable, and we know Ms. Ezell is the right person to continue that legacy,” Daria said. “She brings the passion, vision and instructional strength needed to move the needle of progress forward at Oakdale, and I have no doubt she will do a great job in following in Dr. Prewitt’s footsteps.”

Ezell also said she is honored to build upon the foundation laid by her predecessor.

“I am truly honored and humbled to serve as the next principal of Oakdale Elementary," she said. “Dr. Prewitt’s legacy sets a high standard, and I am committed to continuing the tradition of excellence she established. My priority will be building strong relationships and nurturing a culture where every student feels seen, valued, and inspired to SOAR.”

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