Empowering Educators to Advance Excellence Through National Board Certification

As an advocate for teacher development and a proud Bowie State University alum and adjunct professor, I am honored to support 75 exceptional Maryland educators on their journey toward National Board Certification through the EPI SEED grant cohort. This initiative, made possible by a partnership with Bowie State University’s Center for Research and Mentoring for Black Male Students and Teachers, reflects a shared commitment to elevating teaching excellence. The new candidates will be part of a larger cohort spanning Maryland, Illinois, and South Carolina and part of a program that highlights the power of collaboration in fostering professional growth and supporting educators nationwide.

Thanks to generous funding from the Center for Excellence for Educator Preparation, each teacher in the Maryland cohort will receive $1,900 in component fee support. Given the late start to this program cycle, participants will focus on completing one component this year to ensure a manageable and successful experience. Beyond funding, the program offers valuable resources, including writing retreats, virtual support webinars, and an online cohort community, all designed to provide comprehensive support for these candidates. These resources not only support teachers in meeting the demands of National Board Certification but also encourage professional growth and peer-to-peer learning.

Five hundred educators applied for the EPI SEED grant cohort and 75 outstanding teachers were selected to participate in this transformative three-year program. More than half of these educators work in Prince George’s County Public Schools so I was invited to be a part of their support. To kick off the support the opportunity to attend their initiation session at the Gaylor Hotel. During this event, participant reviewed the certification process and had their first overview of component 3, which is the component they will complete this school year. 

National Board Certification involves reflecting on teaching, analyzing student outcomes, and demonstrating subject mastery, ensuring educators are equipped to meet diverse student needs. Aligned with the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, the certification is vital in advancing education reform by increasing the number of National Board-certified teachers, particularly in high-poverty areas where their impact on student achievement is most profound. These educators are essential to fostering meaningful learning experiences and driving success in Maryland's schools.

As a part of this program we are preparing exceptional educators to meet all students' needs and foster innovation and equity in our schools. As I learn more about the program and provide support, I am inspired by their commitment to excellence and drive to make a lasting impact on classrooms and communities across Maryland. Together, we are building a brighter, more equitable future for education.