The 2011 numbers released by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards show that the state of Washington has the second-most new National Board Certified Teachers (945), behind only North Carolina, and is fourth overall in the total number of certifications (6,242). As well, six Washington school districts nabbed spots on the list of top 20 districts by number of new certifications.
This accomplishment is considered the highest professional certification a teacher can obtain. Teachers earn this credential through a rigorous assessment that generally takes a year or more to complete. It requires teachers to demonstrate how their work improves student achievement. As part of the process, teachers build a portfolio that includes student work samples, assignments, videotapes and a thorough analysis of their classroom teaching. Additionally, teachers are assessed on their knowledge of the subjects they teach.
Here are the Washington school districts that made the list:
- Federal Way School District comes in at number 11 with 41 new certifications (142 total)
- Bellevue School District comes in at number 12 with 40 new certifications (394 total)
- Seattle Public Schools comes in at number 15 with 38 new certifications (289 total)
- Lake Washington School District comes in at number 17 with 36 new certifications (205 total)
- Evergreen School District comes in at number 18 with 34 new certifications (194 total)
To learn more about the certification process, visit the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards website.
