Matt Woodside is a dedicated educator, principled conservative, and lifelong resident of Brevard County, deeply rooted in the heart of the Space Coast. With decades of service marked by conviction, compassion, and courage, Matt is committed to leading our community toward a stronger future together.
Born in 1982 in Rockledge, Florida, to David and Debby Woodside, Matt grew up immersed in the values and culture that define the Space Coast. His father, David, served 30 years as an aerospace engineer at Kennedy Space Center, retiring in 2011 with the shuttle program’s end. His mother, Debby, dedicated 40 years to education, 35 with Brevard Public Schools, retiring in 2024. Their example instilled in Matt the importance of hard work and dedication and a profound appreciation for the Space Coast’s legacy in space exploration and education.
A 2000 graduate of Merritt Island High School, Matt earned a basketball scholarship to Florida Community College at Jacksonville, where he was named Florida Academic Player of the Year in 2001. He later graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2005 with a bachelor’s degree. Since 2006, Matt has served as an educator, coach, athletic director, and mentor at the same Brevard Public School, dedicating himself to helping students and families thrive.
Guided by his faith in Jesus Christ, Matt has been an active member of First Baptist Church of Merritt Island since 1987. He currently serves weekly in his church's music and worship ministry.
Matt has also been a bold advocate for Brevard’s students and families. In 2021, he led a two-year effort against harmful gender policies in schools that endangered students and sidelined parents. Facing opposition from his district, Matt partnered with parents and fought tirelessly for two years until these policies were finally outlawed in 2023, empowering families and protecting students.
A brother to Michael and Mark and a proud uncle, Matt cherishes spending time with his family and enjoys playing sports, writing music, and serving at his church.
As State Representative for District 31, Matt Woodside pledges to stand with the families of Brevard as he champions faith, family, and freedom through education, parental rights, public safety, and economic growth, ensuring Brevard County remains a place where every voice is heard, and every family can thrive.