So just to make sure I don’t run out of things to do this school year, today I applied for the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. I’m pursuing the English Language Arts certification for Adolescence/Young Adults.

I stumbled upon information about NBPTS in the summer of 2007, tagged it in my del.icio.us account and revisited the site last summer. I wondered why southern Colorado school districts were not listed as participating with any kind of incentives for teachers to become board certified. From what I learned on the website, it would be a tremendous professional development opportunity. But should I invest the time and effort if there would be no (financial) benefit in the end? Should I just go ahead and do it anyway because it would make me a better teacher and would be the smart thing to do? The idea got shelved for the time being. Then a couple of weeks ago, we received a flier at school about an information meeting at CSU-Pueblo. Another teacher and I decided to check it out. Apparently, state law has changed and effective 2009, National Board Certified teachers in Colorado will receive an annual stipend. Please don’t get me wrong. It’s not all about the money. But at the same time, I don’t mind getting paid what I’m worth.

After the meeting, there was no doubt in my mind that I am going to pursue this program. The only question for me was “Is it the right time?” I have several responsibilities at school (as if teaching isn’t enough work) and with the exception of selling concessions for the Junior class to raise prom money, I wouldn’t give up any of them. Then there’s the whole idea of having a family and home to care for. That’s the part really matters, right? My daughter is a senior this year, and there are lots of things going on in her life right now. Mom isn’t doing well and needs more help. My sister has taken on the majority of those tasks because she does not work outside the home, and she lives closer. But in no way should all of Mom’s care fall in her lap.

My husband and I talked it over last night and decided that I should do this. So I spent the morning reading more information online. After a relatively simple application and a rather painful hit to my credit card, I received confirmation that my application has been accepted. The part that really worries me is this: at the meeting yesterday, we learned that only 49% of the teachers who pursue National Boards are successful in their first attempt. I think it’s a great thing that this is not just a “rubber stamp” addition to your resume. You don’t just jump through the hoops, pay the fees, and get the credentials. If you get this, you’ve earned it. You are not just another teacher.

Well, it looks like I’ve got my work cut out for me. That’s a good thing. I’m determined to be part of that 49%. Wish me luck.