What is National Board Certification?
National Board Certification is an advanced teaching credential that complements, but does not replace, an educator’s Professional Educator Certificate. It is one of the most respected professional certifications available in the field of education and provides many professional benefits to teachers, students and schools.
National Board Certification is achieved upon successful completion of a voluntary assessment program designed to recognize accomplished teachers who meet high standards based on what teachers should know and be able to do.
In the state of Alabama, teachers who are National Board Certified are paid a $5,000 annual stipend. As of today, Alabama ranks 10th in the nation in number of NBCTs with 2,242 accomplished teachers.
UABRIC National Board Candidate Support Program
The UAB Regional Inservice Center is proud to support teachers pursuing National Board Certification as well as National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) seeking to maintain their certification.
Each month, we host virtual support sessions designed to guide and encourage candidates throughout their certification journey. In the fall, we offer component deep dive sessions led by our National Board Professional Learning Facilitator. These sessions help candidates unpack each component, reflect on their practice, and begin to think like accomplished teachers. Participants will engage in meaningful activities centered around the Five Core Propositions and National Board Standards, with an emphasis on how these principles positively impact student learning.
UABRIC also offers dedicated support for teachers applying for the Alabama National Board scholarship, including assistance with the writing required as part of the application process. Our team helps applicants clearly communicate their professional growth and commitment to accomplished teaching.
In the winter, candidates are invited to attend the UABRIC National Board Writing Experience—a dedicated time for collaboration, one-on-one coaching, and focused writing, including access to a quiet writing room.
Throughout the year, Candidate Support Provider (CSP) mentors offer individualized and small group mentoring, providing feedback and encouragement tailored to each candidate’s needs.
All participants receive complimentary resources, including Bobbie Faulkner’s National Board support books and access to ATLAS video libraries.
Whether you're just beginning your National Board journey or maintaining your certification, UABRIC is here to support you every step of the way. Complete the UABRIC National Board Candidate Interest form for more information.