Kentucky recognizes 219 new National Board Certified Teachers
(FRANKFORT, KY) – A total of 219 Kentucky educators were recognized Feb. 11 for recently obtaining the highest possible certification in the teaching profession, according to the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
Kentucky had the fifth-largest class of newly certified National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) nationally in 2019 and ranks sixth in the nation for the percentage of teachers who are board-certified (9.53%) and eighth in the nation for the overall number of NBCTs, with 4,007 educators having earned their certifications.
“The road to obtaining National Board certification is difficult — the process involves hundreds of hours of work and can take up to three years of commitment,” Interim Education Commissioner Kevin C. Brown said.
“I am incredibly proud of each of these talented and accomplished educators,” Brown added. “Obtaining National Board certification is a very rigorous process that requires a lot of personal sacrifice and because it is a voluntary process, it speaks volumes about the dedication that these teachers have to reaching high standards for themselves and their students.”
Kentucky has consistently ranked in the top 10 nationally for the number of National Board Certified Teachers.
During Tuesday’s event, Gov. Andy Beshear presented each educator with an official pin from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).
“Congratulations to some of the brightest and most dedicated educators in Kentucky on becoming National Board Certified Teachers,” Beshear said. “My administration appreciates our educators and values their commitment to improving our families and communities in Kentucky. Our teachers are the foundation and we simply cannot build a brighter future without them.”
Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman, who is an educator, was unable to attend the recognition ceremony but sent her congratulations to the newly certified teachers.
“The National Board certification process is rigorous and underscores what this administration knows to be true: Kentucky teachers are committed to improving the lives of our students and preparing them for the future,” Coleman said. “Your dedication to our children inspires us. As a fellow teacher, I celebrate this remarkable accomplishment with you.”
Beshear read a proclamation designating Feb. 11 as National Board Certified Teacher Day in Kentucky. In addition to their pins, the teachers received legislative citations and were invited to tour the House of Representatives and Senate chambers at the Kentucky State Capitol.
Please read the full article here.