National Board Certified Teacher
Pennsylvania
Overall Pennsylvania ranks number 20 nationally with the number of National Board Certified Teachers that are located within the state. National Board Certified teachers are those who have successfully passed the NBPTS initial certification process and continue the certification through the Maintenance of Certification process (MOC).
The top districts in Pennsylvania with the highest number of current NBCTs are:
- Philadelphia City
- Pittsburgh Public Schools
- Central Bucks
- Western Wayne
- School District of Lancaster
What are the benefits of being an NBCT in PA?
Pennsylvania NBCT Financial Incentives
Many states and districts offer financial stipends to teachers who are National Board Certified. This varies however from district to district. One district that offers such support is the School District of Philadelphia. Teachers in this district are eligible for reimbursement of up to $2,500 for application fees and expenses incurred through applying to the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards. Teachers who receive an annual bonus of $7,500.
Be sure to check with your local Pennsylvania School District to find out if financial stipends and bonuses are available to you.
State Recognition
Pennsylvania is one of the states that recognizes National Board Certification. In fact, educators who are also NBCTs are eligible for the highest Pennsylvania certification available, which is Level II, provided that they meet other eligibility requirements at set forth by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Teachers are also able to count the time spent on the certification process toward continuing professional development, up to 180 hours.
Educational Credits
Some colleges and universities in Pennsylvania may offer graduate credit to teachers going through the National Board Certification process. Make sure to check with your local Pennsylvania university to see if this credit opportunity is available for you to take advantage of in your area.
NBPTS Support Options
A number of districts within Pennsylvania may have local supports for NBPTS candidates within the district, especially in some of the larger districts. However, despite your location, it is imperative to reach out and find a support group or "accountability partner" to support you through your NBPTS Certification or MOC journey. This will help make the process more enjoyable and less stressful, while taking the guess work out of where to start or what the NBPTS wants. Candidate Support Providers such as Tracey Bryant Stuckey offers support to teachers located in Pennsylvania and across the nation with offerings for both Initial and MOC candidates such as:
- Component 3 (for Initial Certification)
- Component 4 (for Initial Certification)
- Renew Like a Pro (For Renewal- MOC Candidates)
By the end of each of these programs, you will have a completed NBPTS portfolio that is ready for submission.
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