Fourth in Nation with Board-Certified Teacher Graduates
Contact: Paul Cocke, University Communications, (360) 650-3350 or Paul.Cocke@wwu.edu
BELLINGHAM – Western Washington University has been named one of the top 20 universities in the nation that awarded degrees to teachers who later became National Board Certified Teachers – the “gold standard” for teaching excellence.
Western – with 104 alumni who became National Board Certified Teachers in 2011 – was ranked fourth out of 50 universities by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).
“We are glad that Western was identified as one of the top universities in the nation for our role in their initial preparation,” Woodring College of Education Dean Francisco Rios remarked. “But the accolades belong to these teachers for their commitment to demonstrated excellence in teaching. We are proud of our graduates.”
National Board Certification is achieved through performance-based assessment and testing that takes one to three years to complete.
While state teacher credentialing programs set the basic requirements to teach in each state, National Board Certified Teachers must demonstrate advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices. Completion of the NBPTS certification process signifies that teachers have developed and demonstrated the skills required of an accomplished education professional. By completing the certification renewal process, these accomplished teachers show that they continue to meet the nation's highest teaching standards.
honoring those accomplished educators, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and White House Domestic Policy Director Melody Barnes welcomed a group of the newly certified teachers with remarks focused on how the National Board process can lead to improved instruction and enhanced leadership in the profession.
s recognized as the source for the highest standards and practices that lead to improved teaching, leading and learning.
Western Washington University’s Woodring College of Education is recognized throughout Washington, and beyond, as a leader in the development and implementation of programs that prepare outstanding teachers, from early childhood to adult education; educational administration leaders; human services professionals; and rehabilitation counselors. For more information please see .