NBCT News
In spite of historically low levels of state financial support, Florida’s teachers are engaging in the National Board Certification process. The 2009 class of Florida NBCTs includes 651 teachers who certified this cycle.
North Carolina and Florida lead the nation in teachers who achieve National Board Certification. Florida ranks fifth nationwide in the number of teachers achieving board certification this year and ranks second in the total number of NBCTs over time (13,281). North Carolina continues to lead the nation with 15,695 NBCTs over time and a class of 1,509 who certified this year.
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan referred to this year’s class of newly certified teachers as an “extraordinary group,” in a recent interview. He said teachers who achieved National Board Certification have “demonstrated a commitment to taking their teaching practice and the teaching profession to a different level.”
“The leadership and example they’re setting for the system is phenomenal,” said Duncan. “What if every child had a chance to be taught by a National Board Certified Teacher? I think the difference it would make in students’ lives would be extraordinary.”
“Florida is blessed with an incredibly able and well trained teaching force” said FEA President Andy Ford in congratulating the 2009 class of Florida NBCTs. “Over 13,000 have chosen the National Board Certification process not merely because it provides a title, but because the certification process is rigorous and relevant to their individual teaching process and style. Thank you Florida teachers for giving your best to our students – they deserve no less.” Miami Dade and Broward Counties are to be congratulated for ranking in the top ten districts again this year.”
Secretary Duncan gets it!
“I'm a big fan of National Board Certification. Our students listen to what we say, but they spend a lot more time watching what we do. When you see your best teachers continuing to learn and grow and taking on things like National Board Certification, they're really walking the walk. And the difference that makes in our students' lives is extraordinary.”
Arne Duncan, U.S. Secretary of Education, May 2009
