Mathew Portell

Mathew Portell serves as the Elementary School Principal at Metro Nashville Public Schools since January 2024 and also holds the position of Principal Success Coach/Mentor. As the Founder of the Trauma Informed Educators Network and Paradigm Shift Education, Portell focuses on fostering trauma-informed school cultures through professional learning experiences and organizes the Trauma Informed Educators Network Conference. Portell previously held several roles at Metro Nashville Public Schools, including Principal, Assistant Principal, New Teacher Mentor, and Instructional Coach from 2006 to 2022. As Director of Education and Outreach at PACEs Connection, Portell contributed to educational initiatives related to trauma. Additionally, Portell founded Ride for Reading, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting literacy among children in low-income areas. Educational credentials include multiple degrees in education and trauma resilience from institutions such as Florida State University and Trevecca Nazarene University.