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School Board Representative, District 4

The Board of Education manages and controls all public schools established under its jurisdiction. It has primary authority over school matters, but management responsibilities are delegated to the superintendent.

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  • Candidate picture

    Jennifer Bell
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    Berthena Nabaa-McKinney
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

What is your top priority for Metro Nashville Public Schools?

All children have the right to a quality education?

How will you work to strengthen the relationship between Metro Nashville Public Schools and the community?

Describe your experience or interest in education.

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Campaign Phone (615)475-8162
Education Ed.D. Leadership and Professional Practice, M.Ed. Administration & Supervision, B.S. Biology & Chemistry, A.S. Early Childhood
My top priority for MNPS is to ensure every student receives a high-quality education that prepares them for college, career, and life. As Vice Chair and District 4 representative, we have achieved historic progress over the past four years, including four consecutive years of TVAAS Level 5 growth and record graduation rates. I will build on this foundation by prioritizing strategic initiatives that drive student success, ensuring our schools are fully funded, investing in teachers and staff, and expanding access to high-quality instruction and wraparound supports across PK–12 to improve academic outcomes and lead to postsecondary success. We must continue to accelerate progress, advance equity, and close achievement gaps to ensure success.
Support
I will continue to strengthen the relationship between MNPS and the community through consistent, transparent communication and meaningful engagement. I host community meetings, Coffee & Conversations, and Back-to-School Bashes, attend PTO meetings, and regularly visit schools to connect directly with teachers, staff, and families. I will continue partnering with Metro Council members, state legislators, community leaders, and organizations to align resources and support for our schools. Most importantly, I will intentionally elevate and leverage the voices of students, families, and educators most impacted by board decisions to inform my leadership, build trust, and drive stronger outcomes for all students.
I bring 27+ years of professional experience in education. I have served as an early childhood leader at Early Learning Centers, a reading and math interventionist at Hermitage Elementary, and a chemistry teacher at Antioch High School. As Freshman Academy Lead and ACT Coordinator at Cane Ridge High School and an executive principal of a PK–8 school, I led systems that improved academic outcomes and student success. I have also served as a lead evaluator for school and district accreditation across Tennessee. I currently lead school improvement work nationally and serve as Vice Chair and District 4 representative on the MNPS School Board. Most importantly, I am a mom of six—five MNPS graduates and a current 7th grader.