Santa Fe Standard

At the January 30 meeting, the Board of Education and Superintendent Hilario "Larry" Chavez recognized six educators who achieved National Board Certification. Three of these educators received their certification for the first time, while three renewed theirs. The district now has 72 National Board Certified professionals, including nurses.

These individuals completed a multi-year certification process that involved in-depth analysis of student data, understanding priority standards, and reflecting on teaching practices and instructional strategies.

National Board Certification typically takes one to three years and offers incentives. Certified educators, such as teachers, counselors, and administrators, receive a salary differential. Teachers can advance from Level II to Level III. National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) often assume leadership roles within schools and across the district.

Research highlights the positive impact of National Board Certified teachers on student outcomes, especially among BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and low-income students. Many educators find the certification process transformative for their professional development.

Dr. Suzanne Jacquez-Gorman and Raquel Plaza are available to guide those interested in pursuing this certification.

For more information about National Board Certification in the SFPS District and NM, visit www.sfps.info/page/career-advancement-opportunities.