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National Board Teacher Certification

HUSD National Board Certified Teachers

At Humboldt Unified School District (HUSD), we are committed to providing exceptional learning opportunities by ensuring our classrooms are led by highly skilled and accomplished educators. A growing number of HUSD teachers choose, and are encouraged by the district, to enhance their state certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS)—the gold standard for professional development in the teaching profession.

What is National Board Certification?

Established in 1987, the National Board Certification (NBC) program was created by teachers, for teachers to recognize accomplished teaching practices and elevate the teaching profession. It is the most respected professional certification available in K-12 education and represents a teacher's commitment to excellence, growth, and lifelong learning.

Teachers who achieve National Board Certification report that the rigorous process profoundly impacts their teaching methods, improving student learning outcomes throughout their careers.

Why HUSD Supports National Board Certification

HUSD takes pride in supporting teachers who pursue this prestigious certification because:

  • It promotes excellence in teaching and learning.
  • It leads to higher student achievement.
  • It fosters a culture of continuous improvement among educators.

Our commitment is reflected in the growing number of National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) across the district, demonstrating the dedication of HUSD educators to providing students with high-quality educational experiences.

The Certification Process

National Board Certification is a voluntary but challenging process that can take up to three years to complete. Candidates must have at least three years of successful teaching experience in a K-12 setting. The process involves:

  1. Content Knowledge Assessment:
    Teachers demonstrate expertise in their subject area through rigorous assessments.
  2. Differentiation in Instruction:
    Candidates provide evidence of how they adapt instruction based on individual student needs to ensure meaningful learning.
  3. Teaching Practice and Learning Environment:
    Teachers submit video recordings and analysis of their classroom teaching, showcasing student engagement and effective instruction.
  4. Reflective and Impactful Practices:
    Teachers reflect on their practices and demonstrate how they continuously adapt and improve instruction based on students’ needs and data.

Certification is awarded after a panel of local and national educators reviews the submitted evidence. Teachers must renew their certification every five years, ensuring that their skills remain current and impactful.

Support for HUSD Teachers Pursuing Certification

HUSD encourages and supports teachers pursuing National Board Certification by:

  • Providing mentorship from current NBCTs who guide candidates through the process.
  • Offering professional development opportunities that align with NBPTS standards.
  • Celebrating achievements of NBCTs who serve as leaders and role models within the district.

Impact of National Board Certified Teachers

NBCTs bring advanced teaching skills, reflective practices, and innovative strategies to HUSD classrooms. Their dedication to continuous growth translates into better learning experiences and outcomes for students at all grade levels.

HUSD is proud of our growing community of National Board Certified Teachers, who exemplify our mission of delivering high-quality instruction and ensuring every student’s success.