WHAT IS NATIONAL BOARD CERTIFICATION?
National Board Certification is an optional, nationally-recognized teaching certification achieved in addition to state certification. Over 118,000 teacher across the nation have achieved National Board Certification in 25 content-specific standard areas. There are a number of reasons to pursue certification:
- There is research to show that students of Board-certified teachers learn more than their peers without Board-certified teachers. Studies have also found that the positive impact of having a Board-certified teacher is even greater for minority and low-income students.
- Board Certification allows teachers to hone their practice, showcase their talent in the classroom and demonstrate their dedication to their students and their profession.
- Schools with National Board Certified Teachers are characterized by better teacher morale and retention and increased community involvement. Districts and schools that want to drive student learning recognize the power of Board certification and are taking steps to empower and raise the status of accomplished teachers.
- In significant numbers, NBCTs serve as team leaders, department chairs, and instructional coaches. Many NBCTs move on to serve as school and district administrators or within the state department of education.
- In Kentucky, National Board Certification earns teachers a Rank I step increase in pay.
The Five Core Propositions of National Boards are like the Hippocratic Oath in medicine- they outline the profession's vision for what accomplished teaching looks like.
HOW DO YOU GET CERTIFIED?
Certification is a process in which candidates complete four components:
- Component 1: Content Knowledge (a computer-based assessment in which you demonstrate your understanding of content and pedagogical practices in your certification area)
- Component 2: Differentiation in Instruction (a portfolio entry in which you submit student work, and analyze student needs and strengths and your instructional decisions to support student learning)
- Component 3: Teaching Practice and Learning Environment (a portfolio entry in which you submit video recordings of your classroom as well as analysis of your instructional decisions)
- Component 4: Effective and Reflective Practitioner (a portfolio entry in which you submit evidence of your knowledge of your students, your ability to effectively assess their learning, and your collaboration to support student learning)