Ten more teachers earn National Board Certification --

MMSD has 2nd most – with 29

Those who have attained the highest credential in the teaching profession always say it's a very challenging process.

So it's commendable that ten Madison School District instructors out of a total of 86 in the state became National Board Certified Teachers in 2009. 

Combined with the 19 MMSD teachers who've already attained this noteworthy status, this gives the Madison School District the second highest number of Board Certified Teachers in Wisconsin.

(See below for complete list of 29 Board Certified MMSD teachers.)

"Teachers who become National Board Certified often say it is the best professional development experience of their career," said Andrew Kuemmel, a Madison West math and computer science teacher who has mentored many of the district's NBCTs and promotes National Board Certification throughout the state.  "They come out of the process with a better understanding of how the things they do in their classroom impact student learning."

Among the ten new National Board Certified teachers in the district are four from Madison West: (l.-r.) Timothy Thompson – Chemistry, Dominic Johann-Berkel – Math & Physics, Betsy Barnard – Physics, and Eric Gettrust – Physics.

A teacher-driven, voluntary process established by National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, certification is achieved through a rigorous, performance-based assessment that takes one to three years to complete and measures what the most accomplished teachers should know and be able to do, according to Kuemmel.

As part of the process, teachers build a portfolio that includes student work samples, videotapes, and a thorough analysis of their classroom teaching. In addition, teachers take a written assessment of their knowledge of the subjects they teach. 

"Because National Board Certification is a very challenging process and it's based in large part on best instructional practices, I'm pleased that so many teachers call Madison Schools home," said Superintendent Dan Nerad.

Here's what two recently certified MMSD teachers had to say.

Kellie Miller, Speech and Language Clinician, Lincoln Elementary

"I found the NBC process challenging and rewarding. The process helped me to focus my teaching, embed and practice new skills and analyze my performance. As I became more familiar with the 15 standards and 5 propositions related to this pursuit, I was more able to recognize accomplished teaching in my own efforts and in my colleagues. It was very inspiring and energizing to see."

Steve Somerson, Math Teacher, East High

"The biggest thing for me going thru the NBC process was the intense self-reflection of my whole teaching practice, questioning why I do things, and then having to document it. I viewed my progression in terms of student learning and the impact I've had on the many communities I'm part of.  The process reaffirmed my love of working at East High School."

The list of all MMSD National Board Certified teachers: