My name is Charly Porter Kusta, and I am proud to be a member of Hartselle City Schools. I received my Bachelor's degree in English and journalism from The University of Alabama, my Master's degree in Education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, my Education Specialist degree from the University of Montevallo, my Instructional Leadership certificate from the University of West Alabama, and my PhD in English/Language Arts Curriculum and Instruction from The University of Alabama.

Prior to becoming an Instructional Partner, I spent more than 20 years in the secondary classroom teaching ELA to all levels and tracks. Most recently, I taught AP Language & Composition at Hartselle High School, as well as English 101 and 102 for Calhoun Community College. I also spent four years working for Southern Living and Coastal Living magazines as a copy editor and writer, so I love crafting stories, traveling, and eating good food! 

I am married to Kevin Kusta, who proudly serves as a Morgan County District Judge, and we have two children, Porter and Collins. Both children are also proud to be a part of Hartselle City Schools. In our free time, we enjoy spending time with our Scottish terrier, Doyle, and traveling the world.