National Board Conversations

Welcome back to Candidate Conversations! In this special and highly anticipated episode, we bring you the culmination of Keke Powell's National Board Certification journey. For those who have followed Keke's progress through our series, this episode is where we see her efforts come to fruition as she prepares for her final Component 1 assessment. Keke reflects on her growth and increased confidence throughout the process, sharing how receiving scores from previous components helped her strategically approach her Component 3 submission.  She dives into the power of starting early, the crucial role of mentor meetings, and the transformative impact of analyzing her lessons, even with her students.  Her intentional approach to tackling Component 1 last, after gaining experience in written components, offers a unique perspective for future candidates. Beyond the certification itself, Keke discusses how the National Board process has already impacted her career, shaping her communication about her practice and opening doors to new leadership opportunities, including the Teach Plus Texas Policy Fellowship.  This episode is a must-listen for any educator considering National Board Certification or looking for practical strategies to elevate their teaching and leadership. Keke leaves us with empowering advice on preparation, seeking help, and continuously filling your brain with knowledge.  Join us as we celebrate Keke's incredible journey and look forward to welcoming her as an NBCT!

This episode of the podcast delves into the power of reflective practice with educator Michele Vicino-Coleman. Michele guides us through her National Board Certification journey, emphasizing how the process encourages teachers to analyze their instructional decisions, understand their students deeply, and articulate the 'why' behind their teaching. Explore how Michele connects this reflective work to her teaching of English and theater, and discover how certification can be a transformative experience for professional growth

Ever wondered how a job teaching English in South Korea could ignite a lifelong passion for education? In this episode of National Board Conversations, we trace the dynamic journey of Tom Courtney, a teacher whose experiences span continents and grade levels. Tom's story isn't just about classroom instruction; it's about a quest for deeper understanding. From his early days as a self-described "yes person"  to his transformative experience with National Board Certification, Tom discovered the power of self-driven professional development and the importance of reflective practice. Listen as Tom recounts his move from elementary to middle school, sparked by a moment of clarity on a Guatemalan volcano, and how he now finds himself teaching the children of his former students.But Tom's impact extends beyond the classroom. He's also a driving force in advocating for restorative justice practices, shaping district-wide change. Join us to explore Tom's insights on empowering students, fostering community, and finding your expertise as an educator. And for a little fun, we're even including a link to his favorite comfort food!

This episode of the Candidate Conversations podcast is a journey of self-discovery, community, and the power of believing in yourself. Host Danielle sits down with MyDarian Booker, an extraordinary English teacher who returned to his roots to inspire the next generation. MyDarian's pursuit of National Board Certification is a testament to his dedication, not only to his students but also to the community that shaped him. In this episode, you'll hear MyDarian's story of finding his way back home, both literally and figuratively. You'll learn how his experiences growing up in the Mississippi Delta influenced his decision to return and teach in the same school he graduated from. MyDarian shares the challenges and triumphs of the certification process, emphasizing the importance of community support and embracing creativity. He offers invaluable advice for teachers at any stage of their journey, reminding us that even small steps can lead to significant achievements. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of education to transform lives. MyDarian's story is a reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination and that the greatest impact often comes from giving back to the communities that shaped us. Sources and related content

Join us as we chat with Miriam Plotinsky, a seasoned educator, author, and instructional specialist with a unique path to the classroom. Miriam shares her unexpected transition from aspiring opera singer to literacy champion, highlighting the key moments and experiences that shaped her teaching philosophy. Discover how National Board Certification empowered her growth, the challenges and rewards of her current role, and the inspiration behind her numerous books on education. Tune in for practical advice, inspiring stories, and a shoulder tap for a deserving teacher. * Teach More, Hover Less: How to Stop Micromanaging Your Secondary Classroom [https://www.amazon.com/Teach-More-Hover-Less-Micromanaging/dp/1324020342/] * Lead Like a Teacher: How to Elevate Expertise in Your School [https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Like-Teacher-Elevate-Expertise/dp/1324030836/] * Writing Their Future Selves: Instructional Strategies to Affirm Student Identity [https://www.amazon.com/Writing-Their-Future-Selves-Instructional/dp/1324030852/] * Small but Mighty: How Everyday Habits Add Up to More Manageable and Confident Teaching [https://www.amazon.com/Small-Mighty-Everyday-Habits-Manageable/dp/1416633155/]

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Scott Judy, a veteran social studies teacher, coach, and advocate from Utah. Scott shares his journey to National Board Certification, emphasizing the importance of community building, student advocacy, and the power of reflection in teaching. Discover how Scott's involvement in the Utah Teacher Fellows program and his passion for civic engagement have shaped his career and his commitment to creating a better future for his students and his community.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Nicole Greene, a National Board Certified special education teacher and passionate advocate for neurodiversity. Nicole shares her personal journey as a neurodivergent student and how it shaped her dedication to creating inclusive learning environments. Discover how the National Board Certification process reignited her passion for teaching and propelled her into leadership roles.  We delve into the alarming statistics on violence against students with disabilities and Nicole's work with Teachers Unify to End Gun Violence.  Hear her powerful message for educators and learn how you can make a difference.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of education to create a better future for all.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Keke Powell, an accomplished teacher and National Board candidate, as she shares her journey through the National Board process and her passion for making a difference in education. Keke opens up about her experiences, the importance of reflection and networking, and her unique approach to managing multiple commitments. She also discusses the power of mindset and finding your support system, offering valuable advice for aspiring and current National Board candidates. Tune in to hear Keke's story and discover how you can find your fire in teaching.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jennifer DiGioia, a dedicated educator with 22 years of experience, as she shares her journey to achieving National Board Certification. Jennifer opens up about the challenges she faced, the support she found in unexpected places, and the impact the process has had on her teaching. Discover the power of perseverance, self-reflection, and collaboration in this insightful episode.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Tan-A Hoffman, an Anishinaabe language and culture teacher from Michigan's Upper Peninsula.  Tan-A shares her passion for Indigenous education, her journey to becoming a National Board Certified Teacher, and her advocacy for culturally responsive teaching. In this episode, you'll hear about: * The importance of Indigenous languages: Tan-A discusses the vital role language plays in Indigenous sovereignty and how schools can support language revitalization efforts. * Bringing Indigenous knowledge to life:  Discover how Tan-A incorporates land-based learning and traditional practices into her classroom, from processing manoomin (wild rice) to learning about treaty rights. * The impact of National Board Certification:  Tan-A reflects on her National Board journey and how it has opened doors for leadership and mentorship. * Advice for culturally responsive teaching:  Gain valuable insights on how to create a more inclusive and engaging learning environment for all students. Plus, don't miss Tan-A's heartwarming story about learning from elders and her powerful message about the importance of representation in education.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about creating a more equitable and just education system.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Noraa Ransey, a National Board Certified Teacher with over 20 years of experience in the classroom. Noraa shares her journey as an educator, the challenges and rewards she's encountered, and her unwavering commitment to her students and public education. In this episode, you'll learn about: * Noraa's passion for teaching and her dedication to professional development. * Her involvement in various leadership roles, including SBDM Minority Representative, KEA Executive Council, and Teacher Leader of the Kentucky Education Commissioner's Teacher Advisory Council. * Her commitment to diversity and inclusion as the State Ethnic Minority Director. * Her contributions to the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards as an NBCT Cadre member. * Her insights on the future of education and the importance of technology in the classroom.

In this special National Board Conversations episode, host Edward Santiago sits down with Ricardo Calderon, an inspiring educator with a truly global perspective. Originally from Panama, Ricardo achieved National Board Certification in World Languages and has since taught in a variety of settings across the globe—from rural North Carolina to New York City, Panama, Oman, China, and currently Kuwait. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Ricardo shares his journey, insights on teaching diverse student populations, and how being a National Board Certified Teacher has impacted his teaching practice in classrooms worldwide. He discusses the unique challenges and rewards of working in international schools and how his experiences have shaped his philosophy of education. This episode is a must-listen for educators passionate about cultural diversity, global education, and the power of National Board Certification. Tune in to hear Ricardo's story and his advice for educators who are seeking to make a lasting impact both locally and globally. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Toni Dixon-McFarland, a National Board Certified Teacher, published author, and 40+ Double Dutch Club member. Toni's diverse experiences and unwavering commitment to education and community service make her a true trailblazer. In this episode, we'll explore Toni's journey from her early work in child development to her current roles as an educator, life coach, and creative writer. Toni will share insights on the critical skills needed for effective teaching today and discuss the benefits and impact of her National Board Certification. We'll also explore Toni's literary pursuits, including the inspiration behind her debut novel, "Dead Confused," and the upcoming "Kuriously Krazy." Of course, we can't miss the chance to learn about Toni's involvement in the 40+ Double Dutch Club and how this unique activity fuels her passions. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in education, personal growth, and the power of pursuing multiple passions. Books Mentioned: * "Dead Confused" by Toni Dixon-McFarland: [Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Dead-Confused-T-C-McFarland/dp/B0CJKTVGLF]] * "Kuriously Krazy" by Toni Dixon-McFarland: [Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Kuriously-Krazy-T-C-McFarland/dp/B0CX5FV9MZ/ref=pd_bxgy_thbs_d_sccl_1/138-8480581-5239252?pd_rd_w=SzzEQ&content-id=amzn1.sym.3858a394-39a9-4946-90e6-86a3153d2546&pf_rd_p=3858a394-39a9-4946-90e6-86a3153d2546&pf_rd_r=A0CMB7YQC94G84GH71SP&pd_rd_wg=1oD1U&pd_rd_r=abe21baf-3e8b-4479-a03c-d5db0710e97e&pd_rd_i=B0CX5FV9MZ&psc=1]] Connect with Toni: * Instagram: @7goldbutterflies [https://www.instagram.com/7goldbutterflies/] Learn more about National Board Certification: * National Board for Professional Teaching Standards [https://www.nbpts.org/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/TheNBPTS] * Twitter [https://x.com/NBPTS]

Candidate Conversations by the National Board is a chance to speak with educators who are currently on their National Board journey. Danielle Brown, NBCT, continues our school year-long journey with Keke Powell! She is a second-grade teacher in Texas and is super fun and engaging! In this episode, we catch up with Keke after submission and how she will be enjoying the summer. Don't miss out on all National Board related updates; follow us on social media to keep up! Twitter: @NBPTS [https://twitter.com/NBPTS] Instagram: @NBPTS [https://www.instagram.com/nbpts/] Facebook: The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards [https://www.facebook.com/TheNBPTS]

In this inspiring episode, we sit with Joe Evans, a National Board Certified Teacher in Adolescent and Young Adult Science. Currently teaching AP Biology, Biology, and Forensics, Joe shares his powerful 28-year teaching journey marked by persistence, professional growth, and a relentless pursuit of accomplished practice. Joe initially sought National Board certification because he craved meaningful feedback on his skills while teaching in the smallest district in his state. Though he didn't pass on his first attempt, Joe didn't let that define him. He proudly keeps that notification letter to remind students that failure is part of the path to success.   After doubling down on his efforts, Joe achieved certification. Now at 64 years old and the sole NBCT in his district, he continues raising the bar - recently renewing through the Maintenance of Certification process and enrolling in a second Master's program.  Tune in as Joe reflects on his winding career path, the impact of National Board certification on his evolution as an educator, and how he's leveraged his expertise to become a celebrated role model and leader among colleagues. His story exemplifies the lifelong learning mindset at the heart of accomplished teaching. Whether you're an NBCT candidate or a fellow trailblazer in the profession, Joe's firsthand insights are sure to motivate and inspire you on your own journey. Don't miss this candid conversation!

This Teacher Appreciation Week, tune in for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Sonia Matthew, a National Board Certified Teacher and assistant principal. Drawing from her experience as an accomplished educator and instructional leader, Dr. Matthew will provide invaluable insights into fostering positive teacher morale. Learn her proven strategies for creating a supportive environment where teachers feel empowered, valued, and motivated to have maximum impact in the classroom.

Jennifer DiGioia is a veteran educator of 22 years, a lifelong learner, and a National Board candidate. She jumped on the chance to go through the National Board process when California offered to cover the fees. She has an unmatched passion for her students and wants to be the best educator. Listen to her story on this episode of National Board Conversations.  Twitter: @NBPTS [https://twitter.com/NBPTS] Instagram: @NBPTS [https://www.instagram.com/nbpts/] Facebook: The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards [https://www.facebook.com/TheNBPTS]

On this National Board Conversations episode, you hear from Kim Radostits, NBCT. She is the 2023 Illinois Teacher of the Year and has much to say about her time as an educator. She greatly advocates for the National Board process and has a special message for several other State Teachers of the Year! Be sure to follow her on Twitter @SrtaRad [https://twitter.com/SrtaRad] Don't miss out on all National Board related updates; follow us on social media to keep up! Twitter: @NBPTS [https://twitter.com/NBPTS] Instagram: @NBPTS [https://www.instagram.com/nbpts/] Facebook: The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards [https://www.facebook.com/TheNBPTS]

Katie McClain is a seasoned educator with six years of dedicated service in the esteemed Clark County School District, specializing in high school video production. She embraces the dynamic intersection of creativity and technology within the educational landscape, guiding my students through the intricacies of multimedia storytelling. She is a Career and Technical Education National Board candidate.  In this episode of National Board Conversations, she talks about her journey to this point and gets into the intricacies of how she has been able to weave her first career in broadcast journalism with becoming a teacher on her way to achieving National Board Certification. Twitter: @NBPTS [https://twitter.com/NBPTS] Instagram: @NBPTS [https://www.instagram.com/nbpts/] Facebook: The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards [https://www.facebook.com/TheNBPTS]

Tune in to the latest episode of National Board Conversations as we sit down with Jeff Norris, NBCT, the 2024 Alabama Teacher of the Year! Jeff shares his journey, insights, and innovative teaching practices that earned him this prestigious recognition. Gain valuable inspiration and ideas for excellence in education from this dedicated educator!  Don't miss out on all National Board related updates; follow us on social media to keep up! Twitter: @NBPTS [https://twitter.com/NBPTS] Instagram: @NBPTS [https://www.instagram.com/nbpts/] Facebook: The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards [https://www.facebook.com/TheNBPTS]