National Board Certified teachers honored in Charleston

Charleston, W. Va. – The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) recognized the most recent class of West Virginia National Board Certified (NBC) educators at the annual NBC Recognition Celebration. The event honored the new National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) as well as those who successfully achieved maintenance of certification (MOC).
 
National Board Certification is a respected credential for educators in the United States. Similar to other professions, NBC represents a high level of expertise beyond licensure. The comprehensive process—which typically takes three years—includes four components: content knowledge, differentiation in instruction, teaching practice and learning environment and effective/reflective practice.
 
The WVDE, along with the West Virginia Legislature and West Virginia Board of Education strongly supports the program resulting in the state ranking 11th in the nation for the percentage of NBCTs (per capita); 15th for the number of new NBCTs; 16th for NBCTs successfully completing MOC and 24th for the actual number of NBCTs.
 
State funding established in code provides an annual $3,500 salary supplement, and 46 out of 55 counties also offer additional salary enhancements to support NBCTs. The WVDE offers mentors to assist those seeking certification and reimburses all associated application fees.
 
“National Board Certified teachers are among the most knowledgeable and highly skilled educators in the country,” said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. “To have them teach and serve the students of West Virginia raises the quality of public education. These educators’ dedication to professional development and student achievement is remarkable.”