National Board Certification is a demonstration of teaching practice as measured against rigorous standards described in the five core propositions of the NBPTS (National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.) National Board Certification is a voluntary assessment program designed to identify, recognize and reward accomplished teachers who meet high and rigorous standards based on what teachers should know and be able to do.

The work to obtain National Board Certification consists of candidates completing four portfolio entries to demonstrate evidence of practice. The portfolio includes student work to show growth over time, videotapes of classroom activities/interactions, and written commentaries with analysis and reflection. Then, candidates take six 30-minute assessment tests that focus on age and content-appropriate teaching strategies and subject area content knowledge. The assessment center exercises complement the portfolio and are organized around content and pedagogy.

OSPI offers a $5,000 yearly stipend for obtaining National Boards, $10,000 if teaching in a high needs school.

For teachers on Residency certificates, Professional Certification is granted upon National Board certification (with submission of paperwork to OSPI.) All NBCTs are responsible for keeping their Washington State teaching certificates updated. Please click here for further information on how NB certification affects state certification and what your responsibilities are.

National Board Certification in Seattle Public Schools

There are now (2009) 117 SPS teachers who have earned their National Board Certification, over 110 who are finished and awaiting their scores, and over 85 educators working towards NBC this year. Thanks to THNI, the Targeted High Needs Initiative, sponsored by WEA, there has been both funding and added support provided specifically for teachers of color and teachers at SPS high need schools.

PLEASE NOTE: Bonus payments for current NBCTs are scheduled for December 1st paychecks.

Information Sessions offered:

Information sessions for potential candidates are scheduled as follows. You may sign up at the Professional Development website. More sessions will be added soon.

Monday, January 11, 2010: JSCEE Room 2700

Monday, April 26, 2010: JSCEE Room 2700

Please see links at the left, for additional information and resources.