Rep. Julia Letlow (R-LA-05) and Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01) Introduce Resolution to Recognize and Encourage National Board Certified Teachers
WASHINGTON, D.C. - This week, Congresswoman Julia Letlow (LA-05) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) co-introduced a resolution to recognize National Board Certified Teachers and designate a “National Board Certified Teacher Week.” In addition, the resolution encourages administrators, school districts, and states to promote the growth of National Board Certified Teachers by providing incentives and support.
National Board Certification is a rigorous process that teachers can voluntarily opt into to strengthen their teaching skills and demonstrate their effectiveness in the classroom. This process not only strengthens a teacher's career but also greatly benefits their students.
Studies have shown students taught by National Board Certified Teachers learn more than their peers and are benefited by the leadership and mentorship National Board Certified Teachers provide. Board Certified teachers tend to stay in their professions much longer and can accelerate a student's learning by 1 to 2 months of instruction per school year.
Studies also show that students who had a National Board Certified mathematics teacher just once during their education had increased lifetime earnings by $48,000.
U.S. Senators Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) introduced companion legislation.
“The dedication it takes to be an educator in any capacity is profound, and teachers who voluntarily opt to become nationally Board Certified are truly exemplary,” said Rep. Letlow. “The National Board Certification process is challenging, and teachers who go this route deserve special recognition. They provide a needed boost to low-income students, with 44% of them teaching in Title I schools, and increase quality of learning overall. As a mother, you pray that your children are in the care of good teachers, and I commend those who hold themselves to these high standards.”
“National Board Certification for teachers demonstrates a commitment to high standards, which leads to better outcomes for students. Educators who choose to become National Board Certified Teachers benefit from enhanced professional learning, additional research, and the opportunity to excel in their careers. I’m pleased to join my colleague Rep. Letlow to co-lead this recognition of National Board Certified Teachers and the positive difference they make for students, schools, and families.” said Rep. Bonamici
“We are so excited and honored that the U.S. Congress has chosen to honor the work of our organization and of National Board Certified teachers by announcing these important resolutions,” said President and CEO of the National Board, Peggy Brookins, NBCT. “We know first-hand the vital impact that Board Certified teachers have on children’s learning across the country, and we are excited that this resolution will spread the word of that impact to lawmakers in both federal and state governments. A heartfelt thank you to Representatives Bonamici and Letlow for co-sponsoring the resolution in the House, and for the partnership and support!”
“Education is the key to unlocking the American Dream for every child, and our nation’s incredible educators help empower students to reach their full potential and secure a bright future,” said Senator Britt. “I’m proud that Alabama is home to so many excellent educators and National Board Certified Teachers, and I’m honored to introduce this resolution.”
“My home state of New Mexico has one of the most robust certification programs for teachers in the entire country,” said Senator Heinrich. “I am proud to introduce this resolution to recognize the major difference that National Board Certified teachers make in preparing our kids for success.”
“Educational achievement among Mississippi students has made great strides in recent years, a fact that can be attributed in part to our state’s efforts to encourage more educators to become certified,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “Our bipartisan resolution endorses the National Board Certified Teachers program and seeks its growth into more classrooms.”
“This week, we recognize over 130,000 National Board Certified teachers across the country,” said Senator Hirono. “By opting to complete this rigorous certification process, these caring, competent, and creative educators have shown their commitment to improving their schools and enhancing the learning experience of their students. This resolution celebrates these educators and their dedication to children in Hawaii and across the nation.”
Full text of the Resolution can be found HERE.
Senator Britt, Senator Hyde-Smith, Senator Heinrich, and Senator Hirono are leading a companion resolution in the Senate originally led by Rep. Letlow and Rep. Bonamici in the House of Representatives.
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