National Board Certification

Earning An Advanced Teaching Credential

Hundreds of teachers say that National Board Certification was the most rigorous but most helpful professional growth experience they have ever had.

What is National Board Certification?
It is an advanced credentialing process, with its certificate signifying that the holder has met the highest standards established for the teaching profession. The process is voluntary and open to all people with a baccalaureate degree and three years of classroom experience. The certification is valid for ten years, after which the teacher must seek renewal. The fee for certification is $2300.

National Board Certification is perhaps the most powerful professional development experience available to teachers who are interested in improving their teaching practice.

What are the assessments like?
The assessment process has two parts. For the first part, the candidates develop a portfolio of materials reflecting various aspects of their teaching. They submit student work, videotapes of classroom interaction, and written commentaries.

The second part of the process takes place at an assessment center with computer-based exercises. Through written responses to six 30-minute prompts, candidates demonstrate their knowledge of subject matter and classroom situations, based on the standards developed for the candidate's field.

Is it worth the effort?
Many teachers say it was worth the work -- that after years in the profession, their teaching has been validated and they have a greater voice in their schools and communities. They see an increase in collaboration with colleagues and new interest and respect from the parents of their students. And they enjoyed the enthusiasm their students showed for their effort during the process.

Does National Board Certification really make a difference?
Yes. According to research from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (2000). National Board Certified teachers ranked higher on teacher effectiveness than teachers who did not achieve the certification, and students of certified teachers demonstrated deeper comprehension of subjects taught. (See a summary of the report on the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Web site.)

Related Links

» National Board for Professional Teaching Standards -- Information about the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) and the National Board Certification (NBC) process.

» NBPTS Candidates Guide -- NBPTS's Guide to National Board Certification.

» NBC Candidates Calendar -- The scheduling and deadlines calendar for National Board Certification candidates (with application, eligibility periods, assessment center testing windows, and portfolio due dates).

» National Board Certification Resources -- Links to information about the various aspects of National Board Certification.