Support systems for national board teacher certification candidates.

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

In 1997, as a response to A Nation at Risk, the National Commission on Excellence in Education proposed the establishment of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) in order to provide advanced certification for superlative teachers. The certification process evaluates teachers against rigorous standards based on five core propositions of the NBPTS. The certification process is laborious and time-consuming, and support is essential for candidate success.
The purpose of this study was to ascertain the perceptions of National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) concerning what support systems they believe aid teachers as they complete the certification process. Nine NBCTs were interviewed regarding what support systems were in place during their certification, and what support systems they perceive aid teachers as they complete the process.
The study revealed seven areas of suggested support including support from school divisions, building principals, colleagues, and the NBPTS. Support from school and division administrators included organized support programs, professional leave, assistance with videotaping, and monetary support. Administrative support also included recognition of NBCTs and celebration of successful completion of the process. Collegial support included help from active NBCTs as mentors, as well as various forms of assistance and encouragement from teachers within the building. Specific support methods for colleagues included reading and editing portfolio entries and providing emotional support during frustrating moments. Suggested support from the NBPTS included live assistance through the website or phone service.
Data from this study has relevance for persons serving as building and division administrators as they create support programs to increase the number of NBCTs within their schools. The information is also useful to those who design leadership programs and candidate support programs. The information was obtained directly from people who have experienced the process, and provides specific examples of support systems deemed necessary by NBCTs. This data is useful to the NBPTS as they continue to improve support networks, and it is useful to current candidates who seek support for themselves. Recommendations for future study are included in the final chapter.