The latest group of educators has achieved National Board Certification, a significant milestone in the teaching profession. This recognition is awarded to teachers who have demonstrated advanced teaching knowledge, skills, and practices through a voluntary and rigorous process.
Among those newly certified are Erin Webb from Rosemont Elementary, Jennifer Whitmore from Hedgesville Elementary, Kelly Zirk from Valley View Elementary, Kelsey Dusing from North Middle School, Stephen Brown from James Rumsey, and Tracy Malcolm from Opequon Elementary.
Several educators have also renewed their certification. These include Melissa Elliott and Jodi Kissner from Martinsburg High School, Rachel Yates from Mill Creek Intermediate, Rebecha Catlett from Spring Mills High School, Sonya Shockey from Hedgesville High School, Stefinie Aversa from Winchester Avenue, Brian Kleppner from Musselman High School, Megan Smith from Hedgesville Middle School, and Joe Merkel from Mountain Ridge Middle School.
“We are proud to lead the state with 119 National Board Certified Teachers,” stated an official announcement. “National Board Certification is a voluntary, rigorous, and performance-based process that requires educators to demonstrate advanced teaching knowledge.”
Research indicates that students taught by National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) tend to outperform their peers both in the classroom and on achievement tests. Schools with a high concentration of NBCTs often see improvements in school culture and teacher retention rates.
“Thank you for your dedication to your craft and for making a lasting impact on our students and schools,” concluded the statement.
