What is National Board Certification?
National Board Certification was created by teachers to set national standards for what teachers in specific areas should know and be able to do. The process is designed for teachers to demonstrate that they have made a significant positive effect on student learning in the Five Core Propositions. They must demonstrate use of data and assessments, content knowledge, teaching practice and an in-depth understanding of their students. Teachers must show evidence of continuing reflection and learning and must participate in learning communities.
This certification is held in high esteem nationally and those who achieve this distinction are believed to be among the best in the profession. Currently, a little under 3% of teachers nationally hold this certification.
Why Should You Get Certified?
There are many reasons to get your National Board Certification. Achieving this honor demonstrates a commitment to excellence in the profession. The practice of one’s teaching is improved and, best of all, students will learn to a greater degree in the classes of a board-certified teacher. This certification opens many doors for the holder and these kinds of teachers are highly sought after for positions of leadership. Many go on to become department heads, team leaders, coaches, and some continue into administration. More than 50% of the states do offer free support, types of loans, and/or salary or step increases to encourage more teachers to complete this process. Additionally, many states count this certification toward state licensure, renewal of the teaching certificate, and/or step increases. To see what your state offers, click here.
Ways to Prepare for National Board Certification
Understand the Process and Requirements
The first step is to understand the process that will be undertaken. Teachers are given 5 years to complete the entire process. There are four components to be submitted and they can be submitted in any order. One must complete the all four components in the first three years. The components are: Content Knowledge Assessment, Differentiation in Instruction, Teaching Practice and Learning Environment, and Effective and Reflective Practitioner.
In each of these components, the teacher will be asked to write about what they do. There will be classroom-based portfolios developed, student samples shown with commentary, growth over time will be submitted with additional written commentary. Video clips will be requested showing interactions between the students and teacher along with written commentary showing analysis and reflection. Evidence will need to be submitted demonstrating assessments, collaboration with families, the community, and colleagues. Teachers will need to demonstrate how they are contributing to the greater leaning community as well.
Be sure that you are eligible for participation in National Board Certification. There are requirements for education, employment, and licensure. Read these very carefully prior to applying.
It is best to thoroughly read through and chart out how to get through this process, mapping one’s course on a calendar or timeline. Read the requirements at the National Board Certification website. Don’t forget to review the scoring criteria for each section before you begin in order to better plan.
Time Management
Time management is of the utmost importance. Once the plan is written down and benchmarks are set on a calendar, it will be crucial to have a long term and a short-term set of plans. Set aside an hour each week to review progress toward the goals and to adjust the plans as needed. Make that hour at a time when there will be no disturbances. Break down all requirements into manageable steps and set deadlines for achieving them.
Writing Skills
There is a lot of writing required to become a board-certified teacher. One will need to hone their writing skills by signing up for a practice writing course, watching videos that discuss writing, reading books and articles that help to improve writing, or perhaps signing up for a proofreading service. Practice responding to cold prompts in a designated amount of time. Research what skills you will need to have to find the best method for you to use to improve your writing. Consider finding a friend who excels in writing to do your proofreading on a regular basis.
Find Resources
There are many resources that will help with this process. Check for your state resource page, look at various universities that have help centers for this process, and see what the teacher’s union will provide. All have ways to help. There are books that have been written about how to be successful in this endeavor. Read articles and consider flashcard systems or prep materials as resources. The internet has many items to offer.
Work-Life Balance
It will be important to be sure you have a good work-life balance while you undertake this process. Tell family and friends about the plans so that they can be ready to offer support and understanding. Talk to other teachers who have gone through the process. They can offer support and guidance as well as tips for being successful. Set aside some time just to relax to be sure you are getting a break. Keeping your life well balanced will help you to stay focused in your pursuit of the goal. This is a very achievable goal if you just stay organized and break up the work into parts.
*Updated May 2021
