The Ocosta School District has been recognized by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards as one of 81 districts nationwide that have at least 20% of their teachers National Board certified.
“We are proud to be among the top districts nationwide recognized as National Board Accomplished Districts,” said Superintendent Heather Sweet. “We know that teachers drive student learning. One of the ways we work to assure students have access to the best teachers is to encourage teachers to become National Board certified. These teachers clearly teach to high standards and reflect on their practice to get better every day.”
Ocosta was one of four Washington schools recognized for having more than 30% of its teachers National Board certified. The other three were Tukwila, Mt. Baker and Cascade. Another Washington school district, Bellevue, was recognized as one of three districts with more than 40%.
“As a school board member, I am proud that we have such a high number of teachers that believe in being the best in their field“ said Ocosta School Board President Greg Miller.
Districts with at least 10 National Board certified teachers were selected based on self-reported data and information gleaned from the National Center for Education Statistics. The Ocosta School District includes certified teachers Elizabeth Waara, Aaron Anderson, Chris Anderson, Holly Samuelson, Arlynn Martin, Mike King, Teri Hulbert, Lindsey Quinby, Jon Harwood and Hollie Tucker.
National Board Certification is available in 25 certificate areas representing 16 different disciplines and four developmental levels and is applicable to most teachers in U.S. public schools. To become certified, eligible candidates complete three portfolio entries and a computer-based assessment of their knowledge, skills and practice.
“High quality teaching is the most important in-school factor impacting student learning. The districts that measured up to be included in the National Board Accomplished District program understand the value of accomplished teaching and support teachers to be their best,” said Peggy Brookins, a National Board Certified Teacher and the president and CEO of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. “We encourage state and district leaders to support National Board certification because NBCTs have a measurable impact on student learning – and what parent anywhere doesn’t want the best possible teacher for their children?”
Districts will be recognized with an award for the district office and unique celebrations for the NBCTs in those districts.
