In support of teacher preparation essential for delivering exceptional learning experiences to all California students amid a global backdrop, the California Department of Education has developed a Board Certification process for credentialed teachers.   In partnership with the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, a nonprofit, nongovernmental agency, the rigorous National Board Standards criteria and Certification program are continually reviewed to maximize academic achievement, advocate progressive educational reforms and facilitate retention of accomplished instructors.  Since 1987 the National Board has created 25 study fields, based on student age and subject matter.

The National Board fosters exceptional teaching competence on five core suppositions:

§         Teachers are committed to students and their learning

Funding is available to qualifying candidates who commit to this voluntary assessment program.    Designed for one school year, participants have up to three years to complete the program.   National Board Certification is an advanced teaching credential that is valid for up to 10 years.  A nationally recognized hallmark of professional achievement, it compliments, not replaces, a standard credential.   The program cost is $2500.   Federally funded subsidies or grants offsetting up to 50% of program fees are available through the CDE.    

A one-time $20,000 incentive award, payable to eligible NBCT’s in $5,000 installments over four years, is subject to budget funding within each fiscal year, as well as District verification that NBCT’s have taught students at least 50 percent of the time in a high-priority school (Academic Performance Index of 5 or lower) for four consecutive years.  

For more information on, please contact Lori Rangel at (805) 437-1320.